[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is that good?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I live at 146 Pine Ridge Road. Good evening, members of the City Council Governance Committee, Chair Tseng, fellow members of the Charter Review Committee, and Medford community members. As you know, I served on the school committee for 32 years. I asked to be appointed to the Charter Review Committee when I realized there was no one with school committee experience on the Charter Review Committee. While some of my former school committee colleagues may not agree with what we have put forth in the draft, that you are reviewing tonight, rest assured that it has been put forth with deep reflection, not only my own, but with the very diligent subcommittee and the entire Charter Review Committee. As someone who served with three different mayors, I strongly advocated for the mayor, whoever it might be, to remain as the school committee chair because the advantages are so strong. As a school committee member, I had access to the mayor at every meeting. Not just me, every school committee member had the advantage of being able to discuss key educational issues in front of the mayor. being present at the school committee meetings ensures that the mayor is familiar with all the issues in detail and has buy-in. Our charter subcommittee interviewed all three mayors and each underscored how important it has been or is for them to fully comprehend school committee issues, our school issues, especially given the significant percentage of the budget which is spent on education. I remember the frustration of my colleagues across the aisle, that is you, the city council members, in former years when mayors did not come before them. You never heard that from school committee members. We worked closely with the mayors and they had buy-in. To my former colleagues eager to do away with the role of the mayor as the chair of the school committee, I can only say be careful what you ask for. School committee members play a very vital role in supporting all students and education, and that is enhanced when the mayor who recommends the budget is not distanced from the intricacy of the issues that become before the committee. Remember, the mayor only gets one vote, not more, not less, than any other member.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Later, I hope to perhaps address some of the other issues.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I wanted to address this issue of the autonomy of the school committee to pick their own officers or how that's done. And I will tell you that this comes from my long years of experience. And one of the things that I understand is that power is just so sweet. And if you would, I have seen that selection process happen. And I have seen very, very good people who then decided they wanted to keep on being and locking out other members from getting an opportunity. I think it's important that members of the body have an opportunity to be either, which now would be the chair and secretary. So if you would, that part of this comes from trying not to prevent fiefdoms. Now, in the original charter, when I went to look at it, there was practically nothing about the school committee. And in this charter, there's not as much as I would like, quite honestly, because at the recommendation of the Collins Center, quite a bit was taken out that we had talked about. While I certainly understand the argument of having the body be autonomous and make their own decisions, I've also seen the negative. And we have to look at both positions. Now we're talking about chair and secretary. Now the secretary role includes signing the bills on behalf of the school committee. That is the current structure that we use in Medford is the secretary of the school committee signs the bills. And once upon a time, I signed the bills for 10 years in a row. It is a damn good thing that I'm honest, because nobody should have ever possibly wanted me to sign the bills for 10 years in a row. And of course, I definitely invited my colleagues in and said, please take a look at what I'm doing, because I want to make sure that somebody else has eyes on this besides me. It is not always a popular position because it takes time, but there is also an added stipend. And there are added stipends for the position of what used to be vice chair and secretary. And in fact, I saw the recommendations that I think Councilor Bears put out. It's significant money. I think it was like an $8,000 stipend for these positions. I am wanting members to have the opportunity to do these different roles and not just keep it so that one person develops power and fiefdom. Now, if you read it, a key word is consecutive. I didn't say you can only do it once when we wrote this language and you don't get to do it again. I just said you can't do it consecutively. So you can do it in, you could be the chair in year one, year three, year five. You could be the secretary then. You could alternate those two. So it's far from perfect, but I think it's better than not saying anything at all. So that is the thinking behind it. That is the rationale as we spoke on the committee of saying, look, do we put this in now personally, and maybe it's my mistake because I didn't catch it. But I didn't think about it, I have experience as a school committee member, not as a city Councilor. Because quite honestly, I think you guys ought to rotate your chair, too. I don't like the idea of having one person be the chair every single year. I'd much rather see it rotate around members. And that isn't to say that I don't want to see Council Bears not be the chair. at all. I'm happy if he's chair one, three and five or whatever. You get my point. I just don't think that one person in our city government should have a lock on these positions. I think it's important to let other members have a chance to get the experience of leading and being in that role. That's where it comes from.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I need to take a look because it was originally that's what our discussion was.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The intent of being is that it would just, you know, because every two years you've got different people on the committee anyway. So there's change, you know, so, but the idea was that not one person wouldn't have a lock on it. So I'll take a look.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well then don't put anything in the jar. I mean, you know, that's always a possibility. Um, you know, the, I don't, I don't know. how else to go about it. I understand people don't necessarily agree with me, but some of those people may be the same people who have a lock on positions now. And I don't know if that's true or not. I don't want that. But I'm just saying that for me, I am looking at not creating fiefdoms of power. I'm looking at ways of giving other members opportunities. It's pretty simple. To me, it's common sense.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Councilor Tseng, did you want me to go ahead to address that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I think we certainly considered all the different options. We were concerned that not everybody, you know, if we looked over historically at where school committee members, what uh wards they had lived in and we we were concerned in and and the way that our particular uh city there um we don't have a school in each ward so we were looking at school placements and how that worked and it it doesn't really correspond in any way and we were concerned i mean um Sometimes there aren't that many people interested in running for school committee. It's a very taxing job. It takes a long time. In the past, the stipends were always considerably lower. We don't want someone running for position just because they want to collect the stipend. And so after we discussed all of the different options, and then we started trying to say, well, if we were doing ward representation, what would happen if we had wards where no one wanted to be on the school committee? And we were concerned about that. You know, after many different looking at this, this to us seemed to be an opportunity to certainly increase representation from different districts in the city, but also minimize other potential problems.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There we go, thank you. Councilor Tseng, I just wanted to come back for just a second to say I became a little nervous as I was listening to the discussion that all of a sudden the comparison was to what the school committee subcommittee proposed. in our particular part of the school committee. And it is different than what was proposed for city Councilors. That was because we did see that there was different roles and really in some ways different populations. I wanted to say that I came slowly toward representation, but ultimately voted and supported it because as a member of the committee, and having attended many of the information sessions, and listening to people and talking to people in other communities, as well as having the discussions that we'll talk more about in terms specifically about the school committee, I heard from our citizens a great interest in having ward representation. I think, and as I served on the committee, you know, you could go nuts doing this because there's always one more thing you can do and one more thing and make it better. And I absolutely believe that we're really all interested here in trying to come up with a good, positive solution. And we all understand that it's really time. So there's, you know, the weighing between how much do we go back to the drawing board and do another something and another something and how much we move is, you know, the question is there. I just want to let the committee know that I came to appreciate ward representation, even though as someone who had ran and served our city for a long time, I loved representing the whole city, but there was much to be said for those other discussions and I don't want the fact that we chose something different to put forward to you for the school committee to hamper the discussion or make anybody think that I was not a proponent for what the committee put forth overall. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'm here tonight and I've lost Melanie. So on behalf of Melanie McLaughlin, and also former school committee members, Sharon Hayes, Mia Masone, and Kathy Kreatz, we're all here tonight with you, Superintendent, to thank you and to say, give you our profound thanks for the seven years that you've given to Medford. And, you know, I was on the committee when you joined us in a rather difficult time, and it was so wonderful to have your enthusiasm and your joy and the sense of pride in Medford and in our students and just excitement. Former athletic coach, and some of you will know who I'm talking about, but it was quite a long time ago, the late Bud Kelly used to say that he'd always be talking about Medford pride, and he'd say, he'd pull up a shirt and he had drawn blue and white on his arm and said that Medford pride runs in his veins. And to you, superintendent, Medford pride runs in your veins. And so we are very thankful for the time that you have been with us. We are so thankful for the role model you were to so many of our students for your, again, I come back to the word joy, but just, I think about the opening of school. outside when you had all the teachers, all of us sort of lined up and the teachers came in and there was so much excitement and your commitment to learning. You took us through a very difficult and dark time with COVID when everybody was scared and anxious And you were our leader, and that was just amazing. So we are here tonight to thank you. It seems like it went so fast, but we so appreciate your dedication, the gifts you have brought to Medford, the gifts that you are leaving with us, and that we are better for you having been here. So thank you so very much, Marice.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Come on, that's fine. Come on, come on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi. It's great to see everybody. Welcome. Good to see you, too. Yeah. I have to look around. So I'm here today representing the Medford Educational Foundation. I'm the president. And this is David Sayers, my grants manager who manages all the grants that come in and organizes them for us. We're also joined, I'm just going to, Our treasurer, who wasn't able to be here, but Steve Hayes, Gail Arslanian member, Chris DeVita, also Diane Caldwell, a name you'll all know, is part of our merry little group. And I think I got them all. Did I get them all? I got them all. Anyway, what we've been very quietly doing for the last eight, maybe nine years is giving away money. And of course it always amuses me that we have to come and ask you to accept it. This amused me when I was sitting over there, because I would think you'd be so happy to take it you would just. grab it from my hands and no need for formal approval but I'm here to give you $8,755 tonight to go towards the grants that teachers applied for so they we have a process where they write us their good ideas and We weigh and deliberate over them. Very often, we can't fund all of them. We received more than $26,000 in requests, just to give you some idea. So roughly, right now, we're funding about a third of it. But last year, all together, we gave you over $16,000. And we're about on track for that this year. And the type of grants that we love to fund is, for your like example, the middle school librarians joined forces and asked us to fund a community read. And we think that's a wonderful project to bring the middle school students together. The Mississippi has asked us to fund, which we're partially funding, an author's visit. They haven't had one for a very long time. At the vocational school, they asked us for a brand new upgraded 3D printer. and a much more expensive one than they've had, and we funded that at your last meeting. You okayed a field trip experience for the United Nations Club, and we're giving them $1,000 towards that trip. We have an after-school cooking club at the Andrews. We think it's a great idea. working on international food. And so we're funding some of their expenses. So that's the thing we do. They're not earth shattering, but they sure are fun. And we think that they add to a student's enjoyment. And we know from the feedback that we get that the teachers really present, appreciate having another funding source that they can ask to for money. One of the funds we just gave out was for 50 bucks. And a teacher said, boy, really appreciate that very small amount of money, but that's something we can do and something which, frankly, I know that doesn't always happen on your end because it's a different thing. So anyway, we are very, very grateful to the people who support us. Needham Bank has been a great supporter of us, giving us over $5,000 for the last couple of years. The Medford Community Fund has also contributed to us for several years running after we've written for grants. And we're really an intermediary. We collect money and we give it away. As soon as we get money, we give it away. And for that purpose, I'm going to let you know that the Kiwanis of Medford generously just let us know that we'll be receiving a check. and at your next meeting in two weeks time I won't come again but I will ask you there will be an additional there were a couple grants we couldn't fund that we really wanted to so you'll see us come up again just for your approval and we thank the Kiwanis and Needham Bank and Mr. Gene Kalaw from Needham Bank for their incredible support. Anyway, I think that about covers it. It's great to see you. I have to always note that two of you used to be my students. John and Aaron both volunteered at Winchester Hospital when I was there. So it does amuse me that you both ended up on the school committee. So anyway, who's gonna take the check and make sure it gets to the right place? Thank you. And again, I'd really like to thank the very dedicated crew. We're small, but we've been absolutely consistent for years working together. And David's done a phenomenal job, and Steve Hayes, everybody. So thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the MAPI Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the MAPI Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the city of London website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please know that project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at recordma.org. And you can click on current city board filings. You can also find the link in the chat. Derek, on behalf of the city, if you can please put the link in the chat. I'm going to do a roll call attendance. Peter Kautz? Here. Just double checking. Sabrina Alpino? Not in attendance. Adam Behrens?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Annie Strang? Here. Ben Lavely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Levali. And myself. Levali.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. Derek, would you like to introduce yourself on behalf of the city?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Derek. Okay, so the first item tonight is a public hearing for 200 Mr. Gabb, special permit to establish a motor vehicle wash. The applicant is requesting a continuous October 30, 2024 meeting because this is a public hearing. I need to open the public hearing and read the public hearing notice before it can be continued. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct the public hearing on October 9th, 2024, after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom relative to an application by New York Capital Investment Group, LLC, for a special permit for a motor vehicle wash with an enclosed structure located in the commercial two zone at 200 Mystic Avenue, Medford Mass, 02155. Now that I've read the public hearing, I am going to ask for a roll call vote to do a motion. Actually, I will ask for the motion first. It continues on October 30th, and then we'll do it by roll call vote. Anyone want to give a motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A second? I second that motion. Awesome. Ben, were you the first?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then in the second, I thank you. All right, we'll call vote. Peter cows.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Any strength. I've been lovely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Adam Aaron's.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie first and I'm an I. Thank you so the 2nd and final. Item for tonight is approval of minutes for 9-4-2024. Before asking for an approval and a motion to accept the minutes, are there any suggested edits? If not, I will ask for a motion to approve the minutes from September 4th, 2024. So moved. Peter? Second. second okay roll call vote Peter Kyle aye Ben Lavallee aye Adam Behrens aye Adam Strang aye and my I'm sorry Annie Strang and myself Jackie McPherson Okay, so now, unless there's any other items on the agenda for this evening or that I think the board wants to discuss, we can move to adjourn. A motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Go ahead, Greg.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then, Annie, are you a second? I second that motion. Awesome, okay, so I will do a roll call. I'd like some stomach peanut cows.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ben Lavallee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Annie Strang. Aye. Adam Behrens.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackery Fersen, I'm an aye. Thank you, everyone. Safe travels, Ben. Thank you all.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a good night.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Metro Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Metro Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included in the meeting agenda posted on the City of Medford's website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please note that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website, methodma.org, and you can click on current city board filings. You can also find the link in the chat. For starters, we want to offer one welcome to Ben Lavely, who is our new associate alternate member and can fully participate in meetings and deliberations. Welcome, Ben.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's a pleasure having you. Thank you for joining us. Just to note, as an associate member, Ben is eligible to vote when there are fewer than seven members present and eligible to vote. Again, thanks for joining us, and we look forward to working with you. I'm going to do a roll call of attendance. Vice Chair Emily Hedeman? Present. Peter Cowes?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Present. Sabrina Alpino? Present. Adam Behrens? No, Adam. Annie Strang? Present. Ben Lavallee?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Lavallee, Ben Lavallee, thank you. And myself, Jackie McPherson.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Our first item is approval not required for review, seven grant F. I'm going to invite the proponent to present their plans for the log division. But first, if the city can actually set us up with this, and then the proponent can go ahead and continue.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So approval not required as reviewed by the board, we are to make sure that it meets certain criteria in which one of the criteria it does not meet as of yet. Is that my current correct understanding?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. It's Heidi Cabral.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Are there any questions from the board at this time? So, based on the presentation by Attorney Cabral and Planner Evans has stated that it meets minimum percentage. There is adequacy. of the right of way, and as of right now, there's vital access to the lots provided by Parkin. So it meets all of the board's criteria. I will put forth a motion to approve 7-Grant-F for approval not required, or to recommend, is it adopt? Endorse. So you'll endorse the plan as approval not required. Endorse the plan. Approval is not required.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A second motion. A second. I'm going to do a roll call. Vice chair and we had him in. I Peter cows. I re fisherman. I Sabrina Alpino. All right. Adam burns. Still not here. Annie Strain? Aye. And we have a quorum, so in this case, Ben Lovalli would not be voting, is that correct Danielle? No, he can vote. Okay. He can vote, yeah. Ben Lovalli. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Thank you so much, Attorney Brown.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good night. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The next item is approval of minutes. And I guess we can just ask for approval of all of us. Anyone has any objections or any corrections to any of the minutes? I did have one, it was minor. I believe it was the very first one and it has like typos or something like, it was an approval not required, it was an original approval not required and it was supposed to be, it says nor, nor required. Tiny little typos, if the city can actually look over those. And I would give a motion with those typos being corrected.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, yep, I see it. I'll fix that. That was the only thing that I caught. Actually, I will go through and ask for a motion for May 5th and May 25th because at that point, I believe only myself, Vice Chair Hedeman, Peter Kaus, and Ari Fishman are eligible to vote on those two. So I would need a motion from either Vice Chair Emily Hedeman, Peter Kaus, Ari Fishman. I'll make the motion. Second. Thank you. And that's for both May 5th and May 25th. I guess I'll do a roll call for ourselves. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Aye. Peter Cowes? He's muted.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Aye. And then I will ask for a motion for July 17, 2024, which myself, vice-chair Emily Hutterman, Sabrina Alpino, Peter DeKalb, and Ari Fishman are eligible to vote.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This would be July 17th and August 7th, 2024. And I would need a motion. Okay. I'll second. Oh, Emily can have it. A lot of competition today. Vice Chair Emily Hedeman? Aye. Sabrina Alpino? Aye. Peter Kiles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Aye. And the third item on our list this evening, zoning overall updates are Alicia, Danielle, do you have any updates for us?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The design guidelines, how would those be construed? Will we be working with a consultant or is that something done internally? How does that work? Because I know we started this process a couple of years back when we did the zoning recodification and we didn't pick up on it. So I'm trying to figure out how we will move forward this time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Alicia. I'm going to ask for a motion. So if there's nothing else, if there's no support, has no questions, new members, anyone you want, this is your open time before we actually ask for a motion to adjourn. Do you have any questions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would love to pitch. I don't drink beer. That's not a reason just to go and see, you know, hang out and have a great time. Right. So patronize my foot.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, they do.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just to note that board member Adam Barons have joined us and thank you so much for joining us, Adam. Adam, I want to let you know that we have another new board member that joined us this evening, Ben Lavallee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And with that actually, oh and one other thing Adam, there was a note that Alicia and Danielle had suggested that we all send our cell phones to to them so that they can compile it in case we're running late or anything, and they'll know that we, they'll reach out and see if we're coming to the meeting or whatever, so that they actually have that and we're not waiting, going forward. And it's not so much just because, not because of your tonight, it's just to have it overall. Because sometimes we don't even know who's waiting in the waiting room if it's a phone number, so we try to match it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. but it's really short meeting. So I'm going to ask for a motion to adjourn. I'll make the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome, then I'm going to do a roll call since my document of names opens back up. Actually, I think I have it memorized. Yeah, go on Jackie, you've got it. Hi. Peter Cowes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Hi. Sabrina Altino. Hi. Ben Lavallee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Adam Behrens.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Annie Strang. Hi. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I believe I got everyone. Nice job. Thank you, everyone. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening everyone and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Massachusetts Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda provided on the City of Medford's website. If, despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the City's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the Board will be made by roll call. Please also know that project materials for projects before the Board can be viewed on the City's website at methodma.org. And you can click on CD, current CD board filings. And you can also find a link in the chat as it was just put in there by a city staff member. And again, just for the public, we want to offer a warm welcome to Sabrina Alpino, our newest board member, as well as Adam Behrens and Annie, I apologize, Annie String. Any, did I say your last name correctly? Now I'm going to do a roll call attendance. Vice-chair Emily Hedeman. Present. Peter Cowes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Present. Sabrina Alpino. Present. Sally Akiki. Present. Adam Behrens.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Andy Strang. Present. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Amanda, can you please introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Amanda. So great having you with join us again this evening. So our first item on the agenda is a site plan modification for 121 Riverside Avenue, which is my foot housing authority salt install building. I'm going to ask the staff to make any introductory comments and just, I just want to just quickly put a thought out there for the public to let you know that all board members are open to participate in this item this evening since there's no requirements for them to have been on the previous decision. Amanda.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. And with that, I'm going to invite the House of Authority representative from the House of Authority to present. And just please keep in mind that if you can please keep your presentation high level to give us the points as you've so greatly presented to us previously, just for the new board members. And if there's any additional questions, then we can open it up at the end. Attorney Kilson, will that be you? Can you please unmute, Attorney Kilson?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Miss Jensen. Um, I actually I don't have any questions at this point. I'm going to open it up to the board before it is a public hearing and I do have to open it up for public hearing. I'm going to ask the board if there's any questions from anyone. This would be your chance.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I was pretty going to say, pretty much going to say that towards the end, there's so many more beneficial aspects with having established site control, such as the adequate space to remove the parallel parking with the circulation and safer access regress. And then you have, not only do you have the required parking spaces for their residents, but you have given additional 27 for MHA employees and staff. I think that it's just way more beneficial and I'm glad that you were able to establish site control and I'm going forward just just reminds the board that we definitely need to start to do a condition for modifications for these sorts of things so that the proponents do not have to come back going forward. And what's saying that and seeing no other. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much. Are there any other questions from the board? So I'm going to open up for public comment. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Amanda in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.org. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. Amanda, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm going to close the public comment period for this meeting. And one of the questions that I originally had was just how the city stood on this. And because it's reverting back to the original site plan, there were no concerns from the city or the transportation engineer at all. So with that, if the board, if there's no other questions from the board, I will wait a second and then we can move to a motion to approve if there's no other questions from the board. All right. Seeing none, I will ask for a motion to approve the site plan modification for 121 Riverside Avenue, Myford Housing Authority, Salt and Stall Building. I'll make the motion. And may I have a second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Aye. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Sabrina Alpino? Aye. Sally Akiki? Aye. Aye. Adam Behrens.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Annie Strang. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. Thank you so much, Attorney Kilson, Ms. Jansen, Mrs. Cittarello, and everyone else. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The next item is approval of minutes, but as of now, there's no minutes to approve as they're not yet ready for us. Then the third item would be zoning overhaul updates if Alicia or Amanda has any verbal updates that they want to share with us on zoning overhaul updates or Amanda, Alicia, at this point, if you want to fill the new members in on what that is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Alicia, they meet every two weeks on this? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to clarify that it's Emily Keatons, the land use consultant and not our fabulous Vice Chair Emily Hederman that the city's working with.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And without having to watch the entire meeting previously, Annie, or for anyone, the decision, I just approved and signed a decision. So it should be filed with the clerk's office. Danielle did that prior to her leave. And if you want to see what came along with the decision, like the conditions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm glad to hear that we weren't the ones that completely wrecked that schedule.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, their timeline was completely aggressive considering the circumstances surrounding some of the things they had to get done, like MassDOT by itself. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, no, go ahead. I was about to go for your favorite item. Well, I think all of us at this point, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Alicia. And with that, I am going to ask so that we're not adding other things to the agenda that have not been advertised. I'm going to ask for a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A second. Second. Roll call, Vice Chair Emily Herriman. Aye. Peter Kelce. Aye. Ari Fishman. Aye. Sabrina Alpino. Aye. Adam Behrens.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Annie String. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. Thank you, everyone, and have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a good night. And nice to meet all the new members.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Welcome to tonight's meeting of the method committee development board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters 1st. This hearing of the Method Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the procedures as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Method's website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide a real-time access, We will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please note that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed at the city's website, which is MedfordMA.org. And you can click on current city board filings, which you can find the link in the chat. I'm going to do roll call attendance. Sally Akiki. Can you hear me? Present. Present? Yes. Thank you. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sabrina Alpino? Present. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Danielle, can you introduce any city staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. All right, well, the first item on agenda for this evening is 1416 Mystic Valley Parkway. It's a special permit for a detached ADU. This is a new public hearing, and I'll read the public hearing notice. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on August 7, 2024, after 6.30 p.m., remotely via Zoom, relative to an application submitted by Nancy Russa, for a special permit for a detached, essentially dwelling unit, ADU. The applicant is seeking to legalize and renovate an existing ADU and an existing detached garage structure on the same lot at Lot J-01-9, 1416 Mystic Valley Parkway, Mayford Mass 02155, which requires a special permit for Chapter 94, Section 8.2.2, City of Mayford Zoning Ordinance. Danielle, can you please provide any introductory comments?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Ms. Rosa. I appreciate it. I will open it up to the board for questions. One of the things for clarity that I want, Danielle, can you please just quickly go back to the, I didn't hear the second ingress as part of the requirements that have been met. What were the things that were in compliance already?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: How many parking spaces are included as of right now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Based on topography, it's not feasible. It'd be more of a hardship than anything at this point for adding the unnecessary parking.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I definitely agree and with that, I'm going to open it up if if the board has any questions for the questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. And I think that's the only thing that we were really weighing on if it meets all other building codes, I'm actually going to. ask for a motion to approve the special permit for 1416 Mystic Valley Parkways ADU.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second. I, Sally, second. I'm going to do roll call. Sally Akiki? Yes. Peter Klaus?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sabrina Alpino? Yes. and myself, Jackie McPherson. Actually, I have to back up a little bit. I jumped the gun, and this is a public hearing, so I am going to open it up in case there's any public comments. Although we voted ahead, I do have to give the public a chance to speak. So I'm going to go back and open up the public comment period, and those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at MedRate-MA.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself or staff. Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters that you may have received?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Seeing no public comment and hearing that there has not been anything received, I'm going to close the public comment period for this meeting, and I'm going to revert back to the original vote with Peter Kalbs making the first motion and Sally Akiki seconded. I will do the roll call to make it complete. Sally Akiki. Aye. Peter Kalbs.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sabrina Alpino. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Russo. You're all set. Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. Thank you. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Our second agenda item is approval not required for 98 to 100 Magoon Ave. I have, I'm sorry, I do not have the applicant's name readily available.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Angel, Angel is your last, your surname?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Sterianos, thank you for being here with us this evening. I'm going to have the city lead us and give us a brief discussion, a brief overview, and then we'll have you introduce yourself and the project, okay?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What are the dimensions on this, Danielle?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So it fronts on the right of way, has vital access, and it exceeds the minimum frontage requirements. So those are the three requirements to remind the board that an A&R needs. So without further ado, if the board has no questions, I am going to ask for a motion to approve the A&R, although it doesn't need an approval. Yes, so the motion is to endorse. To endorse the A&R. I second the motion. Do I have a second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm going to do a roll call. Sally Akiki? Yes. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sabrina Alpino? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. Thank you so much, Angelo, for being here. I apologize, because I blanked on your surname that quickly. No, not a problem. Have a great evening. Thank you for being with us. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Have a good evening. So the third item on our agenda is approval of minutes, but they don't appear to be ready.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And so number four is zoning overhaul updates. Danielle, do you have anything for us?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much. And just quickly to touch base, speaking on updates to zoning and so forth, Daniel, you were mentioning earlier about the housing bond bill that passed the new ADU law. And I'm not sure if you'll need the board to sort of help with that or if it starts in the planning office and what you'll be overruling. I do know that KP Law, this attorney from KP Law, is actually going to do like a lunch and learn to try to figure out what the the law, the new law says, does, what's effective. So to try to kind of put it in layman's terms for us planners.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Chris Clutchman, um, actually, uh, who's already doing the MTA laws has mentioned something about, uh, something coming down the pipeline, but I have not heard anything official. And now that we're two separate secretariats, I, I don't have that information real time. So, um, I'm in a separate secretariat now, but I'm assuming that that's being worked on now. And I can get you all, I mean, you'll probably get the information as fast as I get the information, or maybe even sooner, because it's going out to municipalities as soon as possible.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: When I have not again, I have not digested even the bridge version of what was sent out by one of our not not all heroes wear capes and there is a planner out there who actually digested this information and put it into like a little compact document. I haven't even had a chance to read that. So. All right, I didn't want to drag on on that. I just wanted to know if there was anything that the board was going to have to do differently. And if that was, I know it's going to come down the pipeline because we just approved an ADU. And I didn't know how that was going to look going forward.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then just are. The 2nd item is how do we get these? to an administrative process with your office. That's a good question. That's a good question. I don't know about the rest of the board, but... That's just gonna be a waste of time. Yes, it's just, it's one of those things where it's like, we rely on you, you guys, to give us the information for those three requirements that we hit. So if you know that they hit them all at that point, it's a waste of the, it's not the best use of the client's time, your time or the board's time. It's more of, again, not trying to put more on your plate, but how do we get those quick things?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, rubber stamps, perfect. Okay, and with that, there's no other items. If no one wants to share anything, then I will ask for a motion to adjourn. Okay, your turn. I second. I second. OK. OK, Sally Akiti? Yes. Peter Kaufs?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sabrina Alfino? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. Thank you all. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Bye. Welcome aboard, Sabrina.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: housekeeping items to handle before we start the meeting. But good evening and welcome to the meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. We will begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Medford's website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting tonight, all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please also know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website, and that website is methodinmay.org. And you would go to current city board filings, and you can also find a link in the chat Someone from the city of Medford will put it there. I will now do roll call attendance. Vice Chair Emily Hederman. Present. Peter Cowles.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Present. Pam Marianski. Present. Sally Akiki. Present. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Danielle, can you introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Danielle. So our first agenda item is 400 Mystic Ave. It's a special permit and a site plan review. It's an application from Herb Chambers at 400 Mystic, and it's 400 Mystic LLC for the site plan review to permit the construction of a new three-story structure to replace the existing three-story structure, renovation of the existing five-story structure, along with modifications to the existing parking, vehicular circulation, landscape, and utilities associated with the proposed Herb Chambers-Toyota Boston. In addition, the proposal requires special permits for the following motor vehicle-related uses. That's H3, motor vehicle sales or rental of new vehicles only, accessory storage entirely with an enclosed structure, H4, outdoor motor vehicle sales and storage accessory to H3. Commercial two, zoning district. This meeting is a, this is an actual continued public hearing from June 5th. I'm going to ask the Medford City staff to do introductory comments. before inviting the client to present a proposal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Who will be presenting for the applicant? If you can introduce yourselves and you can begin your proposal or your presentation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And who's actually presenting?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much. I have a clarifying question on your plan B, if there was any feedback from Todd, the actual traffic engineer from the city. Daniel, do you have that information, if there was feedback on that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, the language can just cover that. It would have to be in coordination with director Blake and MassDOT to make sure that it was at the city and MassDOT's standards or something to that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to make it as simple as possible, but at the same time, clarify it so that it can actually move forward easily. Right. Are there any clarifying questions from the board before I open it up to the public? Peter Kelce?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You can send an email to ocdmedford-ma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record and remind all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. Danielle, can you manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters? It doesn't look like we have any members on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. And I think we can officially close the public comment period for this meeting. And so that brings us back to the draft recommendation and conditions so better understand what we are moving forward with. Again, if there's any questions or comments from the board at this time, before I move to motion or approve, are you understanding what we are working with now? And Danielle, for clarifications on the conditions in the offsite, I am not sure what offsite conditions, Director Blake, that have not been addressed to include with the draft conditions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And so for the draft recommendations from previously, these have been rectified for the most part as well. We had eight drafts. And I want to make sure that we're on the same page with the proponent. What are the drafts? What's the remaining conditions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So beginning from condition one, that was highlighted with control plans. Plan modifications have been resubmitted but have control plans.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then I'm just going to go through just to, so we're not, and then we came to number three on your end, requotation. of the builder permit?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kirk house, are you taking down the new conditions or you, um, as we go along, I'm just curious.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you. And have we wordsmithed for that scenario? We have to decide on language regarding the MassDOT access permit for scenario two?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so going over the conditions, want to take a shot at the conditions before right before I recommend the motion for special event and the site plan review. Do we want to take a shot to make sure that the board is okay with the conditions either the city or Peter
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And do we want to keep the waterline here for now, Danielle, as well? Yes. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: With updated utilities, I think that covers- Yeah, that's the updated utility plan, right? Yes. Okay. Okay. So I will ask for a motion to approve first the special permit for 400 Mystic Ave. make the motion along with the conditions as read by clerk house.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, you don't have to read that. I just need a motion and a second. And I'll second. Okay. Thank you. And we will do a roll call. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Aye. Ari Fishman? Aye. Peter cows.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Marioski. Hi, Sally Kiki. Hi, myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an eye. And we have approval for site plan for 400 mystic have with the draft conditions as read by clerk cows. Any second? I'll second the motion. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Aye. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Mariansky? Aye. Sally Aciki? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. And I believe that concludes our business for 400 Mystique have. Thank you all for being here. Attorney Baronelli, the design engineering teams, Mr. Hemingway, we appreciate you being here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So our next item is minutes, but we don't have any for approval as of right now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So then unless there's anything else that anyone wants, for one, I believe this is Pam's last board meeting with us. We want to thank her for all of her help. and efforts. Of course. Thank you for having me. And thank you for staying along with us as long as possible. And I wish you well, personally. Thank you. Thank you so much. Great. Great working with you, Pam. Thank you. You too.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I will, with that, yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. I go to that stop and shop. I go over there a lot. And my only question is, I mean, this has nothing. This doesn't take away from it at all. But they have fans. I'm like, what's with all the fans in their driveway? What is that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That is pretty amazing. Gosh, my husband is going to get a kick out of that. I just want to know, what did you approve those fans for? We didn't approve fans. I don't know what that means.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. I definitely thought that like sort of like a wind chime, chime, whatever. I don't know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was going to say, the ads are already on the gas pumps, aren't they? I don't know about Stop and Shop, I can't remember, but I know they're everywhere else.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My dentist is right next door and I keep, that's the only thing I know and I go over there and I don't see it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I realize college kids really love chicken, all kinds of chicken.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, right. I will.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll make the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, Vice Chair Emily Hartman? Aye. Peter Kiles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Ariansky. Aye. Sally Akiki. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. Thank you, everyone. Have a good night.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Let's get home safely, everyone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for being with us this evening. Sorry for the delay. I am going to get the meeting started. Welcome to tonight's meeting of the Method Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. We're going to begin with obligatory procedural matters. I'm going to read the actual public hearing notice, the remote hearing notice. This hearing of the Method Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. However, accommodations for in-person participation to view the meeting and provide comments is being made available in room 201 of City Hall. and recording of this meeting will be made available on the Metro Community Media website, metrotv.org. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting tonight, all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Actually, I just wanna back that one up with the city, and ask the city regarding the Room 201 of City Hall. Is that still applicable for this evening?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Please know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website, medfordma.org. You can click on current city board filings. You can also find a link in the chat. Danielle, can you actually, I'm going to do roll call attendance after the city introduces anyone on the staff.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. Thank you, Daniel. Okay, I'm going to go back to roll call. I just wanted to give an extra minute, just in case there was one other board member that was joining us. Peter Kautz. Here. And I'm just going to double check for Ari Fishman. Pam Marianski. Here. Sally Akiki. Present. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I am present. So the first item for this evening is approval not required. It's an A&R plan for review for 970 Fellsway. I'm going to, before I invite the proponent to present their plans for 970 Fellsway, I would ask if the city can give us a synopsis on this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Okay, so I will invite to present the plans for 970 Fellsway. If you can please give them screen sharing abilities, make them co-host whoever's presenting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. Can you tell me what the frontage actually, what were the dimensions again?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Part of, I just have to make sure they satisfy the minimum funds requirements and that there's vital access to the lots. Planner Evans, are you able to provide that information?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's 50. Okay. My document has 35.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to say thank you. I'm going to open it up to the board for questions while I continue to look forward to something. Does anyone have questions? Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, and based on the fact that there is at least 50 feet, I'm going to actually just move it along and ask for a motion to endorse the plan as proven not required. Do I have a motion? I second the motion. I second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm going to do a roll call. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Ariansky? Aye. Sally and Kiki? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Thank you so much for being here with us tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The 2nd item on our agenda tonight is 400 minutes to GAV, special permits, site plan review. So the applicant is requesting a continuance to a date, July 17, 2024, which is the date certain. That's when they want to finalize the requested revisions. So I am going to ask the board for a motion to continue the public hearing for 400 Mystic Ave to July 17, 2024. So moved. And a second. Second. Roll call, Peter Kautz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Mariansky. Aye. Sally Akiki. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. Our third item this evening is 360 Salem Street, which is ZBA case A-24-14. It was a public hearing on June 27, 20. There will be a June, there was a public hearing scheduled for tomorrow, June 27, 2024. The applicant has submitted a letter to withdraw their special permit application from the CBA. Since there is no longer an active application for city board to review in its advisory role, the matter is also withdrawn from CDB and there will be no discussion of public comment. Item four, approval of minutes. I'm going to ask for a motion to approve the minutes for May 15th, 2024. I said emotion. A second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call Peter cows. Hi, Pam Marianski. I'm selling a kiki. Hi, myself, Jack McPherson. I'm an eye. Before adjournment, I want to ask if the board or the city has any other items for discussion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And with that, if there's no other items from the board or the city, And if we feel confident that all members have heard the announcement in regards to item three, 360 Salem Street, not being heard, since it was withdrawn, I will ask for a motion to adjourn. Having no other items. A motion. A second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is that Pam? Yes. Roll call. Peter Klaus?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Marianski? Aye. Sally Akiki? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Thank you everyone for coming tonight. We will reconvene on July 17th. Have a good evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the community development board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some of the procedural matters. This meeting of the Metro Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately assess the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Medford website. If, despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight's all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please note that the project materials for our projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at MedBrainMA.org. And you can click on current city board filings. You can also find the link in the chat. I'm going to do roll call attendance. Vice Chair Emily Edelman? Present. And let's see, do we have Peter Cowles? No. Ari Fishman? Present. Sally Akiki? Present. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I am present. Danielle, can you introduce any staff on the call, please?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So for our first item, let's see. I believe our first item this evening is approval not required. It's an ANR, which I plan for review. And it's seven and nine Jeremiah circle. At this time, I'm going to provide the proponents of the plans, the 79 Jeremiah Circle. Danielle, can you give access to screen share?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's okay to keep that what I can do is we'll see if we'll just move it to another portion of the meeting later. And at this time, I'll see if 400 mystic adversary for special permit site plan review. And I believe because we don't have a full voting body this evening, we will be listening to a presentation by the proponent because there will be a site plan review revision that's needed. So I will at this time, read the public hearing notice before the proponent can make, before the city makes introductory comments. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on June 5th, 2024 at 630. PM via Zoom, relative to an application by Herb Chambers, 400 Mystic LLC, 400 Mystic Avenue LLC for site plan review to permit the construction of a new three-story structure to replace the existing three-story structure, renovation of the existing five-story structure, along with the modifications of existing parking, vehicle circulation, landscape, and utilities associated with proposed Herb Chambers-Toyota-Boston In addition, the proposal requires special permits for the following motor vehicle-related uses as applicable. H3, motor vehicle sales or rental of new vehicles only, accessory storage entirely within enclosed structure. H4, outdoor motor vehicle sales and storage accessory to H3. And H6, class two used motor vehicle sales. The property is located in the commercial two, which is C2 zone district of 400 Basic Avenue, Redmond, Mass. And at this time, I'm gonna ask the staff to make introductory comments before inviting the board to present the proposal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Can I actually now invite you to introduce yourselves and make sure that we have sharing facilities for them?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Attorney March. I'm sorry, Attorney Marnell, yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Newhall, I apologize. Do you have something else that's to scale just for the public? And I can follow along, but I'm not sure that everyone's going to have an easy enough time following along. This is hugely engineering. And I understand that as yourself as an engineer, but I'm not sure that anyone's able to follow along from the public.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, this helps. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Noel.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Ms. Lister.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you all for your presentation. We truly appreciate it. I'm trying to, I know that there were some significant comments from Director Blake regarding traffic and he's not present with us this evening. And you said that you had sat down with him as well as planner Daniel Evans. And I'm just trying to figure out, I have not heard mention of an access permit. Is it true that you need a mascot access permit and that can actually dictate or impact the recommendations by the city for what you need to do on the site. Can you explain a little bit about that process?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Navarre. I'm going to open it up to the board for any further questions. Vice Chair Feldman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, vice chair, vice chair. When you, can I just, when you said EV charging stations, so the proponent does have EV charging stations on the site. Do you want more in addition to? That was something that was proposed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, so there are EV chargers, but I just wanted to, I didn't know if you wanted more in addition because they, they're, Director Blake has also mentioned that he would like to see more as the need arises.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much. And one of the things that, so speaking of that, I wanted to go back. I had not, thank you, Vice Chair Edelman, for bringing up the also location. So that brings more traffic here. And Attorney Marinelli had originally said that the traffic report said there was going to be 656 fewer uses than the former bank. So at this point, I'm just trying to figure out how that ties into the traffic. I guess this is when we need our board member, Peter Cowles, and understanding the impact in that area. So I'm going to trust that you did your traffic report. I don't get into that, but I just, I want to have a little bit more confidence that it will not trigger any kind of more traffic congestion there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I appreciate that. I know that there are sort of generic codes and it's kind of hard with the actual versus versus existing conditions and trying to forecast for that traffic. So me being a planner myself, I don't usually, traffic studies, they're very helpful, but just knowing the area itself, I usually look for other indicators of confidence, but I appreciate that. I'm going to go with board member, Ari Fishman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you so much. Actually, Director Blake has captured that. That was one of my concerns, but it was something that was captured within. And so I guess at this point, I'm going to ask the city for clarification if there's anything that you wanted to add before I open it up to public comment. Danielle,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And if there's a plan B, it would help with the process going forward because the board can vote on an administrative process for the city to actually, for planning staff to approve as opposed to you coming back before us. So that's something to keep in mind if you do have a plan B. We've learned our lessons previously.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Director Hunt?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much. There's no other questions. I'm going to open it up for public comments since the public hearing this evening. So those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message to Young McConnish. You can also send an email to OCD at welfare-ma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if the participants have an audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to let myself and staff Danielle, can you manage the comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Kraus? Yes, thank you. Can you state your name and address?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Cross. And we didn't have any other, so I appreciate your comments. And I didn't want to cut you off at the two minute mark because we don't have any other comments coming in. I'm going to allow the proponent to decide if they want to respond now or just keep in mind what Mr. Cross has mentioned.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's definitely something for you to take with you. Um, don't um at this point, it's it's it's you're not um If you can just take uh, mr. Cross's comments into consideration and and just respond accordingly going forward.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you so much. I appreciate it. And Mr. Cross, we appreciate your input. Danielle, do you have any other comments to read into from the queue or from emails?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm going to close the public comment period for this meeting. And I'm going to ask for clarification if the board has any clarifying comments or questions going forward. Just to remind the board that we will not be voting this evening. The proponent will be coming back before us with revised site plans as per recommendations of Todd Blake and other department heads, including the PDS staff. But if there's any last other additional recommendations you want to give before we continue their hearing to a date certain which would be June 26. hearing none, and actually before I ask for a motion, I just wanted to just circle back really quick to Mr. Cross and let you know that I definitely, I didn't want to put the performant on the spot right now. I wanted him to take your recommendations into full consideration to be able to offer an appropriate response for you. So that's why I didn't. I wanted to move it for them to think about it going forward with us. So coming back to June 26, if I can have a motion to continue the hearing for 400 Mystic Avenue to June 26. I'll make the motion. That's Vice Chair Henneman. And do I have a second motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so that's, so roll call, Vice Chair Edelman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Sally Akiki? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Thank you so much, Attorney Ron Valley, Mr. Walsh, and all that have presented this evening. We will see you on June 26th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a good evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Danielle has our I just want to make sure before I know we're going to do the next item, but just for the A&R is has the performance showed up for 79 Jeremiah circle?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right, so I am going to invite the board to present for 79 Jeremiah, just to remind the board that this is an approval not required. We are specifically looking to make sure that it meets the frontage right requirements and adequate access. So at that point, if I can, Ms. Ibrahim, if you can go ahead. You're on mute. Let's see.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Ibrahim. I want to make sure that so this doesn't change the frontage at all does.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The real lot line, so that does not affect access. Can the city help me with this one? It does not sound like it's affecting access at all.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you so much. So, To clarify for the board, basically, again, we're looking at the front on the right-of-way. Does it satisfy the minimum frontage requirements, which is 35 feet at least? And is there vital access to the lights provided? And based on Mr. Ibrahim's presentation, I would ask for a motion to endorse the plan as an A&R. I don't see any other reason not to.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It doesn't need approval, but it needs an endorsement for not needing approval. Yes, Vice Chair Herman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, this is what I'm looking at.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want, that's what I'm trying to double check as Lily was asking.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: One second, Mr. Abraham. Abraham, before you leave, we just wanted to make sure we got Vice Chair Hederman's, we still haven't voted as a board. Oh, I apologize. This is all. No, it's okay. No, it's totally okay. She had a great, Vice Chair Hederman brought up a great question, and I knew that I had seen something on the site plan, but it's, I think it was just the way that the information was presented, and so now we're all back. And I can ask for a motion to endorse the ANR 47 and 9 Jeremiah circle.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And can I have a second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, Sally can have it. And so roll call vice chair Hederman. Aye. In Arby Fishman. Aye. Sally Akiki. Aye. and myself, Jackie McPherson. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so the next item on our agenda for this evening is zoning amendments. And I believe there was a city council paper number 24-033 where they refer it to us for this evening. And I will read the public hearing notice. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on June 5th, 2024 at 6.30 PM via Zoom. remote video conferencing relative to the following proposed amendments to the City of Medford zoning ordinance. One, amending the format of the table of use and parking regulations to replace the parking and loading code columns with specific parking and loading requirements. Amending section 94-12, which is definitions, to add new defined terms and revise existing definitions. Number three, adopt a new GIS-based digital zoning map. Adoption of the new map format is not intended to result in any material changes to the zoning of any parcels within the city, but is intended to confirm the best information available to the city regarding the existing zoning destination for all properties in the city. Number four, amending sections 94.1-4, 94.6.3-3, section 2, 9411.7.2, section 4, and 94-12, to exempt municipal uses from certain use parking and dimensional requirements. A link to the public hearing is posted on the city's website at medford.ma.org. Okay, so I'm going to request at this point for Alicia or Danielle to please give us a to introduce the consultant and to give us a brief update or introductory comments.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. I think at this point, it's preferable if you just go through everything, and I guess we can ask questions at the end.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Anyone unmute me. Thank you so much. We appreciate your presentation. At this time, I'm going to defer to the city and see if you want to add anything before I open it up to the board for clarifying the questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I do have, I just wanted to know in the definitions, Ms. Stenz, you had said that the factory built versus manufactured, the only difference was that one was built in a factory and put on site, and then one was actually built on site. I could have that backwards, or did I get that wrong?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. In the manufactured homes, as far as like utilities and things like that, that usually doesn't have a basement because it's manufactured offsite, correct? Utilities go replaced with a basement. I'm just trying to follow with the definitions. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does the board have any other questions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And for myself, too, having followed this with Danielle and Director Hunt, I just I just wanted to appreciate all the work that's gone into it and I wanted to encourage the board to take Ms. Enns up on the recommendations as Director Hunt has been asking us. I know that I wanted to dive into the site plan changes. try to get some feedback on things where, why do we do things a certain way? Can some things be done administratively through the PDS and so forth? I just have not found enough time in a day to get that, but I encourage us all to sort of think about how we can be more helpful in that process going forward. And with that, I don't have any other questions myself. I do know that I have to open this up to public comment. And before I do that, I wanted to see if the city has any other questions or comments at this point. All right, I am going to open up for public comment. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature and message Danielle with a comment. You can also send an email to ocd.networkopenma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and the staff. Danielle, do you have any previously sent emails or comments?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, then I will close the public comment period for this meeting. And at this point, if the board has no final comments, I'm going to ask for a motion to recommend to the city council, recommend approval of proposed amendments to the city council as presented. Actually, if the city can help with this, we would recommend also to add the footnotes as brought up by Director Hunt. Director Hunt, if you could actually help us to wordsmith that. Revision.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And with that, can I actually ask for a motion to recommend with direct the recommendation, uh, the approval of the proposed amendments to the city council. I'll make the motion and a second motion. Okay. A roll call, uh, vice chair. Hi, Sally. Okay. I. Ari Fishman. I. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an I. Thank you so much, Ms. Sims, for your presentation. I truly, at least, really appreciate all of your work. I look forward to the rest.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a great evening. Number four is approval of minutes for 417.24. I'm not, do, Danielle, do we have, so I know that we have a quorum and basically we're allowed, even if we weren't in attendance, we're allowed to vote the minutes into file, into record.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just accepting the minutes, okay. So if I can have a motion to approve the meeting minutes from 417.24.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And a second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, probably you can have it. Vice Chair Hedeman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Sally Akiki. Aye. And myself, Jacqueline Person. I'm an aye. And now unless there's any other comments from the city or from the staff before we go to adjournment, is there any? Okay, so now I need a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll make a motion to adjourn. And a second. Oh, second. Vice Chair Hedeman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Sally Akiki? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. Thank you, everyone. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. The hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by assessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the city of Medford's website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, Tonight, all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please know that you can assess all project materials for the project before the board, which can be reviewed on the city's website, which is medfordma.org. And you can look under current CD board filings. And Danielle will also put the link in the chat. I will do roll call attendance. Vice chair. Emily had a man present. It accounts.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are you fishmen present? And Mariinsky present. And myself, Jackie McPherson present. Daniel, I want to introduce any city staff on the call.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Continuing to our first item this evening is 290 Salem Street, which is being continued on 417 24. Um, it's a site plan review for special permit to allow the construction of three-story mixed-use building to contain seven residential units above ground for commercial space If we can please get a brief some overall summary Before the proponent goes if the city can please provide that update Um, yeah, so
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and if I can please have the applicant present any changes that you may have.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I really appreciate everything and and any questions anyone has we'll be happy to answer Thank you very much jacob But before I open up to the board, I just want to commend you guys on The differences between the first plans and these plans are significant. It may not be 100%, right? But it's also at the point where we can see how much you've worked with the city to move forward. And I, for one, can appreciate that, especially with that curtain wall corner that we were concerned with the privacy. And then the whole idea of the how an actual passerby will see the space. So I can appreciate that. I will open it up to the board for any other questions or concerns. No questions or concerns? No follow-up questions? Does the plan address overall concerns for the board?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does the city have any advice on that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And as for the special permit, are we still concerned with the parking? That's one of the questions that I have. I know that there was maybe condition tenants only of that particular address could use it? Is that something that we're still working with?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hearing no further, seeing no further questions or hands raised from the board, because it is a public hearing, I will open it up for public comment. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at MedfordMA.org. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I will close the public comment period for this meeting and open it back up for deliberation between the board. One of the things I wanted to leave with is I remember hearing this previously, and it was conditioned to the point where it was almost a different project. So the fact that the applicant has addressed all of those issues and the concerns regarding the staff who has worked with the city, as well as addressed all of the additional input from the board, I have nothing further. So at this point, if the board has anything further to say, other than that, I would look for a motion for the first part to approve the site plan for 290 Salem Street.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Because the special permit is for retail uses until the city updates are allowed for that corridor, correct? Is that what we're doing a special permit for? Yeah, the special permit is for the, so it'll be retail. So you're asking for us to condition a space, a parking space we save for that commercial use?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. No, I was just waiting for you to. Peter Calves?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter, can you actually read what you have? so far?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And so for the board to discuss the condition as recommended by director Blake, that would not be captured in recommendations that would have to be fleshed out for the parking space.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Understood. Thank you. And so how does the board overall feel about? Director blake's Recommendation to condition a parking space for commercial use only Director blake. I don't know if you want uh, uh, pardon me, uh vice chair heteman
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have no opinion either way. Either way, I was going to offer if Director Blake could better explain that condition and reasons for it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Director Blake. Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Heidemann?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Hanneman, did you want to speak again?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Director Blake.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So it sounds like overall for the board, for this item, we're gonna defer to the applicant, the property owner to handle the parking in this case. So for the criteria to approve the site plan, if I can, Peter, not to put this back on you, but as the clerk, If I can ask for a motion with the conditions that you have collected, it seems as though the city is okay with those conditions as stated previously.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there a... So that's PETA's motion. Is there a motion to accept, a second motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So going back, Vice Chair Emily Hederman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, we're going to vote.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry. PETA cows? Aye. Maryasky. Aye. Ari Fishman. Aye. And because I was absent during the last meeting, but I have, I am attestant to the fact that I have watched the meeting in full. I am, I am also now eligible to vote and I'm an aye. Now to discuss, this is also a special permit to make sure that there are no adverse effects that will outweigh the beneficial impacts. And that's looking at the social economic community needs, traffic flow and safety, adequacy of utilities and public services, compatibility with the size, scale and design of other structures in the neighborhood, impacts on the natural environment, and the proposal's compatibility with the purposes of the city's comprehensive plan. What I can say is that it's way better than what's there now, and it will definitely transform the area. So I would look for a motion to approve the special permit to allow for the retail use at 290 Salem Street.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A second motion. I ask for the motion, then a board member. I can't give the motion myself, so Peter has given the motion. I second it. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Aye. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Marianski? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Thank you, Attorney Banowski and to the applicant and everyone else that represents the applicant, we appreciate it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. The second item for tonight is 142 Mystic Avenue, Great American Bear Hall to amend the approved site plan. It's a public hearing, so I will read the notice again. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on May 15, 2024, after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom, remote video conferencing relative to a modification to an approved site plan review at 142 Mystic Ave. Medford, Massachusetts, 02155. The petitioner, Brian Zother, on behalf of Great American Bear Hall, LLC, proposes modifications to the access drive location, parking layout, and internal circulation drive aisles in order to comply with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's approved access drive location. In addition, the petitioner seeks approval of signage that exceeds allowances of section 94, 6.2, which is under the headline of signs of the Medford zoning ordinance. if I can please, if the board can please have an update from the city?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Although we saw this a while, I will tell you that this came in so late that I have not wrapped my head around the differences. It would help for me anyways, just to help to speed this a little, to provide more time, not without just in haste. I don't wanna do anything in haste, but at the same time, I need to be able to wrap this around my head. Can you please compare the changes? I need to better understand what these changes are.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Director Hunt.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm trying to figure out egress. And it's kind of hard. That's the one thing. So what's the egress situation?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And not because it's in the same family, but Danielle, if I'm not mistaken, Atlas is built the same, right turn only, correct? When you come out?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You can turn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry, I got held up. I was looking at the transportation so you can however you want to proceed. I just wanted to there was some clarifying questions to wrap my head around.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Speaking with Danielle earlier, one of the concerns that I had with that actual option would be that the back of Mystic Valley Parkway or Route 16, the way it merges with that exit on I-93, that would be putting a lot of traffic, spilling a lot of traffic out at that traffic light coming on to Mystic, before you get to Mystic. It's just the way Mystic Valley Parkway is set up, period.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Understood. Thank you, Director Blake. Director Hunt?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, no, I appreciate that. And I don't wanna speak against the state because they're there for a reason. Me working for a state, a fellow state agency myself, I definitely understand, but I will tell you that economically, it could kill a project. And unless the city is looking at a feasibility of a traffic study for the entire strip where others can actually come in and pay for the impacts. And just, I can't even imagine what an access permit, not adding costs, but at the same time, adding time to this project. I've just taken that into consideration. It could, in the future, be like a, I'm not sure how the proponent feels about that anyways, but just in my experience, I know that it could be cumbersome. Danielle?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I missed his author. I, I, myself as just one board member, I wouldn't be comfortable conditioning that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are there any comments or concerns from the board? Uh, yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Dr. Blake.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Before I open it up to the public for comment, are there any other questions from the board? I do see that we just had a couple of people, I'm not sure if there's public, so I'm going to open it up at this point. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.org. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be intervened through the chat to alert myself and staff. Daniel, can you please manage the comment queue and read any previous letters or emails that you've received prior to this meeting?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome, then I can close the public comment queue for this meeting or the public comment period for this meeting. And I'll go back to the board. For the city, can you actually provide us with the original? I know that there's some conditions that are no longer relevant with these changes. Can you remind us of what still stands?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Danielle, did you provide us with these conditions? That's what I'm looking for.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, and before Ari goes, one of the things I wanted to note, Director Hunt, is that I haven't been properly prepped on this one. I'm not sure about the rest of the board to know even how to discuss conditions going forward, is what I meant. I don't know what the department heads, I don't remember, recall what the department heads' suggestions are going forward. So that's the problem I'm having. So that's what I was trying to see.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The beauty of what you have just said would have been relevant in a PDS memo prior to this meeting, and we could have been prepared.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, and I definitely understand that. But when you said fair, it would have helped to be more fair of everyone's time across the board. Ari Fishman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Director Boyd?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Piotr. Danielle?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Danielle. I really appreciate it. And trust me, I definitely, I sympathize and I empathize with the lack of capacity on your end. And I'm not placing fault at this point at all, but at the same time, the owner should not be on the board to try to speed through something that we're not able to understand. And we understand that it's also not the applicant's fault. There's no fault being placed here. I'm not even gonna blame MASCA. They're doing their due diligence, right? It's one of those things where I just, It's so complex, there's layers to this, and I'm just trying to better understand so that I can lead the board in making a decision forward. And I understand it's not fair to anyone across the board, whether it's the city, the applicant, or the board, in trying to rush this forward. I just need to know the best path forward.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sal DiStefano?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Peter Cowles.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Director Blake.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Director Blake. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, it's a very difficult situation, but I want to make it absolutely clear that the board, again, the onus is neither on the board to make a decision without having the proper information going forward, because it wasn't our fault either. So it's unfortunate, but the onus is not on the board. However, in saying that, I will ask if the board wants to discuss these additional conditions, if there's something that we can come up with that is agreeable with both the board and the city that can make sense that we can capture to move forward. Danielle?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we can condition it to make sure that the applicant is working with the city staff or department heads to move that forward, correct? To flush that out?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I guess I'm. Peter cows.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm sorry, Peter. Did you mention the actual signage, the wayfinding as recommended?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ari? Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Ari. I think that's what I meant by going back to the city staff and make sure that there was a minimal agreement on what was going to happen. Maybe I left that too broad.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Pena Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Zartha, before we ask for a motion on those additional conditions to approve your amendment, are you okay with those conditions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. And again, it's just to explore that the fact that you're even going to try.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The board in our position, you would use it as a condition, but would that be PDS staff that would make the recommendation for why?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then I can only imagine that the board's recommendation to explore that would back that up. I think that's sufficient. Okay, so I am going to ask the clerk for a motion to approve the amendment to the site plan as he has already recited conditions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, can I have a second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so Peter Kelce?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Arianski? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Thank you for your patience, Mrs. Arthur. I hope that it is going to be a little, you know, smooth sailing from here for you. I'm sorry. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I appreciate it. And I think we're all waiting for it to open. Trust me.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a great night.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The next item on our meeting is approval of minutes from 5-1-24. Can I have a motion to approve? I second. Oh, I'll second. Okay, roll call. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Baranski? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. And so number four would be zoning overhaul updates. Alicia will provide an update. Director Hunt.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So May 22nd is the first, is another city council. What are they doing at that meeting?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that's just to get moving for the packet is not gonna come back. So I'm trying to figure out the tasks that are coming down the line. May 22nd is a meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May 28th is when we'll be getting the packet that they're going to refer back to us for the zoning amendment changes. And then they're going to want that back by June 5th, you say?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, it's giving me context for myself. I'm not sure about the other board members.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's true. So we get it on May 28th and we meet on June 5th. So we'll be meeting to discuss city council's recommendations to get it back to them. Is that how? Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And are there any other updates from board members? Any other questions that you have for city staff? Well, I just want to say that I obviously, I am very appreciative of all of you, but I have to give a special shout out to Peter for the way you captured those conditions. Because I stare and it's like I fumble. And I'm trying to capture them myself on this end. And it's like, oh, you read them back. I'm like, wait, that's not what I got. So I really appreciate your diligence in getting them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, in saying that, the final item is a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second motion to adjourn. Second. Peter Cowles, roll call. Peter Cowles.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Mariansky. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I am an aye. Thank you, everyone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some of the procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by assessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Medford's website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting tonight, all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at MethodMA.org. And you can click on current CD board filings. Danielle will provide the link in the chat. I'm going to do a roll call. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Present. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sharad Bhattacharya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. Danielle, can you introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the first item on the list for our agenda tonight is 290 Salem Street, which is a site plan plus special permit to allow the construction of a three-story mixed-use building to contain seven residential units above ground for commercial space. Danielle, can you please give an update on this project? It's continued from 4-13-24? Yes, so they,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: In final in final plans and i'll have those two um in time for your meeting packets the friday before the meeting Okay, so at this time i'm going to request a motion for continuance to uh Which which is may May 15th So do I have a motion to uh continue to 97th street to may 15 2024
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so that was Emily that did the first and Ari did the second. And we'll call Vice Chair Emily Hedeman. Aye. Ari Fishman. Aye. Peter Kautz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sherrod watch watch area.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the next item on our agenda is there is the approval of minutes from 3 2024 as well as 4324. I believe we need a motion for each one separately. So starting with 3 20 24. I have a motion to approve the minutes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Headman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Peter Kautz. Aye. Sharad Bajracharya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an I. And just to back up on the continuance of 290 Salem Street, I did not give an I, but I was an I for 290 continuance, 515. I just realized I didn't include myself. And I also need a motion for the approval of minutes for 4324.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Hederman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Peter Cowes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sharad Bhatracharya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. And so that brings us to our final agenda item and that zoning overhaul updates that the city was going to give an update on. At this point, Danielle, we've agreed that you're going to send us some materials to review first and perhaps put it on the next meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. So before I go to adjournment, do you want, is there anything from Miscellaneous that the board or city staff will want to discuss outside of the zoning overhaul updates? I don't have anything else. So now I will ask for a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll second the motion. Vice Chair Emily Hedeman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Kautz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Gerard Blachbacheria.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. Thank you, everyone. See you on the 15th. I guess we will review, in the interim, we'll review the materials that Alicia has sent out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a great night.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the CF Medford's website. If despite best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting tonight, all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please note that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website as well, and that's medfordma.org. And you can click on current city board filings, and Danielle will provide a link in the chat I'm going to do a roll call attendance. Vice-chair Emily Hedlund. Present. Peter Kautz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Present. Pam Marianski. Present. Sally Akiki. Present. Do we have Shirai Barachara? No, not Shirai. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Danielle, can you introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: actually from 3-13-24. And now it needs to be continued to 4-17-24. The proponent is asking for continuance. Can I have a motion to continue to 90 Salem Street to April 17th, which is a date certain?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And a second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. roll call vice chair Emily Hedman. Aye. Peter Kautz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Raviansky.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I believe you can vote to continue. You just can't vote on material as of right now, but you can vote to continue, I believe. And myself, Jackie McPherson. So the next item, we're going to go to 294 Harvard Street. This is a special permit to establish a motor vehicle repair establishment, which is auto glass within an existing building. This was continued from 313.4 as well, I believe. Is that the date? I don't have to continue this date. And if I can have the Method staff introduce the proponent again.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So with that said, I will open the public comment period. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at method-ma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to let myself and staff Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so in that case, I will close the public comment period for this meeting. And to remind the board, I remember we were mostly in agreement, but due to the technical error, we were not able to vote at the last meeting, but we said that if the proponent came back, we would be willing to approve with a couple of conditions. Condition one being to remove the barbed wire on the fence. maintain screening on the fence to ensure parking is not visible from the public way. The proponent was actually amenable to that condition. Condition two, prior to applying for a sign permit, the applicant must submit plans to planning staff for review approval. Preferred signage type would be downcast lighting, such as gooseneck, or halo-lit channel letters. I believe the proponent was amenable to that as well. Condition number three, strike parking, the same. And I believe, I'm not sure that we have to go over the benefits of this, making sure that the benefits outweigh any adverse effects as we've done that. So at this point, I'm not sure if the board has any further questions. If you want to move forward with, if I can have an actual motion to approve the site plan for 94 Harvard Street, if there are no other questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Hedeman? Aye. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Ariansky? Aye. Sally Kiki?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, yes, that's right. Abstention and myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Thank you, Mr. Tanuchi. I believe your special permit has been granted.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Tanuchi.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Next up on our agenda is 48 to 64 Commercial Street. This is site plan review to construct a two-story 97,857 square foot research and testing lab. Danielle, can you please introduce, oh, can you actually give any introductory comments to remind us of this item?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Monti and Attorney Dash. Daniel, can you remind the board of, so I don't see updated comments from the department head, so can you lay those conditions out again? Because it's clear that the plans have been updated, and I feel a lot more comfortable, because as I said previously, when you condition something to the point of change, we should definitely see more of a final. And this definitely looks a lot more final, so I want to be clear on what the, Updated comments are what has not been addressed If you can spell it out for the board Yeah, so, um We'll need a condition.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Since it is part of a hearing, we'll need a public comment. Is that correct, Daniel, for this one?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are there any other comments from the board? All right, since we haven't closed the public hearing, I will open it up for public comment. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Daniel in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function. to provide comments as it's not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. Danielle, have you received any emails or previously sent letters or emails on this? No, I have not. Since the last meeting? And seeing no hands raised now, I think it's safe to close the public comment period for this meeting and for this item. And I'll ask if the board has any other questions regarding the criteria for approval or any of the conditions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And you did mention the concrete apron on the driveway. Was that the first one you mentioned? Yes, that was the first one, yeah. Awesome. And the city is, you're looking for a revised plan. Do the department has want a revised plan? That's not a condition, but that's something that will need to happen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, so I can ask for a motion on that, but I want to be absolutely clear on what we're asking for. So we're asking the proponent to prepare a revised plan with the conditions showing, indicating the conditions as per Director Blake's email of which date? April 3rd, 2024, today. April 3rd, 2024, as well as the other two conditions that Peter has read out, which is the concrete apron on driveway, And then the directional signage from the plaza, but.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do I have a motion to approve the site plan to 48 to 64 commercial street based on those conditions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second. Vice Chair Emily Hederman. I. I. I. I. I. I. I. I. I. Thank you, Attorney Dash and Rosamonte, Mr. Bradley, Mr. Gibbons. Have a great evening. And Ms. Armstrong.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a nice evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The next item is approval of minutes. I believe they were from 3-13-24. Do I have a motion to approve the meetings from 3-13-24? I second the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm sorry, before we do, my paper says 3-6-24, but I thought I read it for 3-13. Do I have the wrong date? Sorry, my dates are off and this I'm trying to find them again 3 13 is what it is in the uh in sharepoint Yeah, it says 3 6 on it, but when I went in draft meetings was something totally different and then When I went I think originally it was 3 6 the meeting but then it got moved to 3 13 Yes
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So it's three 13. Okay. All right. So I read it. Right. Awesome. I'm sorry. Uh, who made the first motion? I did Sally. And second, seconded by Emily. Thank you. So vice chair, Emily Hederman. Hi. Peter cows.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Hi. Pam Marianski. Hi. Sally Akiki. Hi. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an eye. And so the next item is for the city zoning overhaul updates. Is that something to be discussed this evening?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I can definitely appreciate that. I have extreme interest, but I'm just trying to figure out. I got to throw a dot at my calendar to see exactly how I can make that happen. It's definitely the ability. Similarly, I'd love to.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, and I'm excited that you have Emily Enns and her team on it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm still on a 10-feet setbacks, which usually you find in a park. I don't know. So weird. All right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. If there are no other items, I do have one. So our next meeting is April 17th and I will be away that week. So I wanted to put that on the table right now. It's the week that follows my first marriage anniversary. And so I will not be here. Hi, Emily.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You'll be here, awesome. And so Emily said she'll be here. And so hopefully she will graciously step into that role to run the meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is it school vacation? I know it always starts with Patriot's Day and I thought Patriot's Day was the following week. Okay, then now it's very early this year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's the 15th this week, this year, huh?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, thank you for actually. I was like, don't waste your time. Thank you. So, and I was actually going to dial in and my husband was like, you begged me to take you away. You're absolutely not dialing in. I'm like, okay. And he's right. All right. So a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second. Vice Chair Emily Hederman. Aye. Peter Cowles.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Marioski. Aye. Sally Akiki. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Aye. Thank you. Thank you. Have a great day.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. The reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the city of Medford's website. If despite our best efforts, we are unable to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please also know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website as well. The city's website is MedfordMA.org, and you can go under current seating board filings, and Danielle will provide that link in the chat. I'm going to do a roll call attendance for the board. Vice chair, Emily Hederman? Present. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Present. Pam Arianski?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is Sally Kiki? Is she here? No. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Danielle, can you introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. We're going to go right into the first item on our agenda, which is 290 Salem Street, which is continued from 4 Uh, I believe this was continued from two 1324. Is that correct? Daniel to 13? Yes. It's a site plan review plus special permit to allow the construction of a three-story mixed use building to, to contain seven residential units above ground for commercial space. If I can please have the city staff make any introductory comments.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And if I can please have the applicant introduce yourselves and Danielle, if you can please provide them sharing abilities, whoever is speaking.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, for one, I want to thank you for seriously taking into consideration the board's comments previously, because I know that you needed to get to a certain plan design before going to the ZBA, but this has been hugely significant, especially explaining how the context of the lot and how it plays into the buildings across from it. I really appreciate that. The one thing I want to clarify is the dumpster. I was a little confused on the dumpster last time, and I'm still trying to figure out Um understanding the the dumpster so if you can go back to that and then i'll i'll pass it off to the rest of the board Just how that dumpster will um So I I get I I can answer this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. The only other two comments I would have is just to make sure at this point to adhere to the department has comments going forward. There's not much more I can speak on outside of final plans. And then if the city had any questions on the architectural design of the balconies, I'm a little curious as to what the city would say before sending this to the ZBA, because as we know, if this is the chance to actually pretty much weigh in on those balconies. I don't see an issue with them at this point, but I'm not sure what the city thinks. And then I'll open it up to the board. specifically the architectural features of the balconies. How does that play into the city's plans?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The corner, I am a little concerned about too, but it's a lot better than what we've seen previously.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Okay, I'm going to go to the board and I see Emily and then Pam after.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And next is Pam Marianski.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Pam. This is information to take in. It's given the applicant a little bit of idea of how the board will move to vote in a future meeting, because we know that you still need variances. So if you're not prepared to answer board member Marianski's question now, just keep it in the back of your head that that is a concern that one of the board members has. And then, okay, so we'll go to board member Ari Fishman. Thank you, Chair.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And we have Vice Chair Hedeman. You can go right ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you. So I am going to open up the public comment period. So those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. Depending on the number of comments, we'll go two to three minutes. And Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters? There was a comment in the chat that I'm not sure if that participant is still here. I think we can stop that person. Cheryl R., did you want to read out your question before we begin? Okay, Danielle, I can't see anything else.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Danielle. And you don't have any other comments to read, to share, and there was no hands. Okay, so I'm going to close the public comment period for this meeting. And to bring it back to the board, and so we're not voting on 290 Salem Street this evening, because as I mentioned earlier, they still need variances, but we want to give them an idea of what's acceptable. and to give them some feedback if there's gonna be additional changes before they go off to the ZBA for me and before they wind up coming back before us if those variances are approved. I have no further comments other than just making sure that you're being in tune with the department head comments. And I have no comments until that's handled. I don't know if the board has any other comments that they wanna share. for this evening for 290 Salem. Hearing none, I am going to ask for a motion. Chair, sorry. Yes, sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that would be, do we know that should the applicant come back before us for once we can vote, actually. But because we're not voting this evening, I didn't reiterate. So with that, we will vote to continue the meeting to a date certain after their ZBA meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It makes a lot of sense and I appreciate you asking for clarification on that. So basically where I was going with it is based on the comments that the board has made tonight, I would have the applicant make definitely make sure that they're keeping the design wall in mind and then knowing that there's going to be a condition for parking coming down. if this board was to move. But other than outside of that, I think the actual stance right now is that this is an acceptable plan going forward. I mean, I can't vote by myself and I can't vote without ZBA's approval. However, I think we pretty much gave you the idea of how we would vote going forward, just with the feedback that we gave tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What I can tell you, and I'm not sure if this is even legal or permissible, but at this time, I would ask for a motion of approval with a couple of conditions that doesn't necessarily significantly change the architectural structure at all, and definitely not the parking. And I'm trying to give as much headway as possible without voting and without speaking for the entire board. So if we're allowed to, yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I definitely understand because they're not able to grant a variance that would be detrimental to anything that we've actually changed. And I get that. I just, at this point, Director Hunt, my hands are tied as far as how we can help the client going forward. Legally, I don't know what can be done.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, those are the only two conditions that I have from the board. And then anything that needs to be addressed from the department heads, which at this point, I'm not able to decipher myself.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh yeah, and I was very much aware of that, but I'm not sure that we're asking to change setbacks on that corner. I don't think any board member had an issue with that. At this at this point, especially with their being limited open space, and then there's retail on. I don't think any board member had an issue with that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, and again, just to echo that and to re-clarify again that if another board was to grant the variances with the architectural features that we've seen before us, we understand that it would be detrimental if we change anything later. I don't see this board changing anything that would be detrimental to those variances.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, just to be safe, I'm going to ask for a motion to send a memo to the ZBA through the PDF staff. on behalf of 290 Salem Street, letting them know what conditions we would approve the site plan and special permit with? I so move. And a second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Hederman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Mariansky? Aye. and myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an I. And now I believe we need a motion to continue 290 Salem Street. Does it have to be a date certain, Danielle, or just to the next meeting?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, a motion to move 290 Salem Street to the next meeting on April 3rd, 2024. So moved. Second. Vice Chair Emily Hederman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Arianski. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. And I'm not sure if I said the language properly, it's to continue, not move, but it's the same, I hope. Thank you, everyone. Thank you, attorney.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a great night. The next item, I believe, let's see. The next item is 4864 Commercial Street, which is a site plan review to construct a two-story, 97,857 square foot research and testing laboratory. I'm going to read the public hearing notice. The Metro Community Development Board shall conduct a meeting on March 20, 2024, after 6.30 p.m., via Zoom, remote video conferencing relative to an application for site plan review for a new non-residential structure of more than 10,000 square feet, which is a major project. It was submitted by Empire Management Corporation of 171 Great Road, Akinas. The applicant is seeking to demolish the existing structures, a construction staging yard, 48 Commercial Street, and a vacant industrial building, 64 Commercial Street, and construct a two-story, 97,857-square-foot research and testing laboratory, which is in allowed use in an industrial zoning district at 48 to 64 Commercial Street, Medford Mass 02155. Our board is the site plan review authority per section 11-7. PDS staff, can you make any introductory comments, please?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So to make sure here, the board would definitely need to see final plans to vote going forward. We can open up the public hearing this evening to hear the applicant, but we would be voting on final plans since there's some back and forth with the city, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I think that's what we need to be clear of, because when it's conditioned to the point of change, then that means we should have a final set that we're voting on. OK, we'll hear it going forward. I believe the tiny dash, you could go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And before you continue, Attorney Dash, I'm not sure about everyone else, but I'm having a hard time hearing you. And I thought it was my audio, but then someone else just spoke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I do have some clarifying questions, but I'm just not sure where the conditions lie at right now. Danielle, do you want to give, I know that you haven't had a chance, but is there anything that's specific that's standing out from the city right now? Because I just want to make sure we get that clear.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's all I have, Madam Chair. Does any member of the board have questions at this time? Vice Chair Emily Edelman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And Peter Kals? You're on mute.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I just wanted to echo Vice Chair Hederman's questioning on the pedestrian. I did see the link with the trees there. That was one of the questions that I actually So to my delight, that has been addressed. So that would have been my only other thing. Seeing no more questions from the board, I am going to open it up for public comment at this time, since it is a public hearing, and I'll read the public notice. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a meeting on March 20th, 2024 after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom remote video conferencing relative to an application for site plan review for a new non-residential structure of more than 10,000 square feet, making it a major project and submitted by Empire Management Corporation of 171 Great Road, active mass. I don't believe we need to read the second part of the notice. since we've already read it. So now I will open it up. My apologies to Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. questions. Daniel. Can you please manage the public comment queue and read any comments that have come in prior to. But the letters or emails.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I'm going to close the public comment period for this meeting, and I will open it back up for board deliberation, starting with Vice Chair Hedeman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Kautz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowes?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Director Hunt?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you all. So to get some clarification from how the board is feeling, are you comfortable with, I have not been able to wrap my head around all of the conditions and I'm not sure that they are at this point more administrative things that the PDS office can handle with the applicant as long as they're accommodated for going forward, we can do a, actually a condition based on that, or did you want to have the applicant come back before us with a new set of plans? I'm just trying to get more of a feel.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, and just thank you. And Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so I am going to, is there any other comments? Okay, I'm going to look for a motion to continue. 4864 Commercial Street till the date certain, which is April 3rd. I'll make a motion. And a second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I second. Okay. Attorney Dash, we will see you on April 3rd. If you can please come back. Vice chair, Emily Headman. Aye. Peter Kowals. Aye. Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Ariansky? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Attorney Dash?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The next item on our list for tonight is 294 Harvard Street, which is a special permit to establish a motor vehicle repair establishment within an existing building. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on March 20th, 2024, after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom relative to an application by Damian DiNucci on behalf of Auto Glass now for a special permit for a motor vehicle establishment located in the industrial zone at 294 Harvard Street, Medford Mounds, 02155. Danielle, Medford staff, can you please make any introductory comments?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm going to ask the applicant to introduce themselves.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. President. Do you have a presentation for us this evening?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Danielle, can you please give myself access?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I appreciate it. I do have a follow-up question though. Can you go back to the actual fence? You said that there's no cars left overnight. Sorry. But how is the work shielded from the right? I know it's an industrial area, but to kind of clean up the property, how to keep it neat in that area, how are the cars shielded from outside view?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. My biggest concern was that it was a surface parking lot, but I didn't hear what you said. The surface parking lot was just overhead and I wasn't sure how the cars were going to be kept. And you've already clarified that they were not kept overnight and that they would be inside of the building. So I was just trying to figure out exactly what that looked like. that I appreciate the follow up. I'm going to actually open it up to the board for further questions. Vice Chair Hedeman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: have another meeting or is this kind of do we get all our questions out tonight other than obviously public comment if we have to open it up again to public comment we're going to do public comment this evening and if there's any public comment that comes in it would be susceptible to open it up again um based on that technicality so we're literally just getting everything out tonight including um the fact that we open up the public hearing we'll give you conditions um if and see how the board wants to vote and Again, you're just showing up at the next meeting. Okay, great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice chair.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There was some feedback on, I know you were amenable to putting up some signs. You spoke about signs and then the condition of the barbed wire that the city did not particularly care for. Are you amenable to that, Mrs. Nucci?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then when, of course the city has, if you, when you apply for the sign permit, you have to submit the plans to the planning staff for that going forward, but we'll spell that condition out. We'll have the city spell that condition out before the board makes a decision.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would like to skip steps. And I, we appreciate that. And again, that's why we're even, um, making sure that we're dotting our I's and crossing our T's for tonight's technicality. Um, tiny little inconvenience, but, um, it'll be sealed for later. I'm going to open up the public comment now, uh, period, just in case there's anyone that wants to speak. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. Daniel, can you please check the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters regarding this item?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We appreciate it. Can you just, can you say your name again and give us the address of Titan?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. We appreciate it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so I'm gonna close the public comment period for the meeting for this item and go back to the board for deliberation and discuss the approval for a special permit and if there's any potential conditions for approval. And we can have Danielle spell those conditions out, if any. Just to give you an idea of where I sit myself, and then the board can actually all speak, is I actually wanted to make sure that there were no adverse effects, there was no benefits as opposed to adverse effects. I will be absolutely transparent with you and let you know that I'm not entirely sure that it's the highest and best use, but there are definitely benefits to the use at this point, especially with your property being vacant for over a year. So I think that there's no negative benefits. If anything, it'll be all positive. And saying that, I will actually be more in favor of this project going forward at this point. So I will turn it over to see if the board has anything else to add. Vice Chair Hederman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Okay. Which is based on a technicality, so pretty much we'll get our tentative approval this evening with conditions, and they will come back to have us vote officially on a date certain. Are we got that, Average Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we do have a couple of conditions. Danielle, do you want to summarize those for us?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And just Vice Chair Hedeman had mentioned striped parking for the commission. Vice Chair Hedeman, do you want to speak or?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I would that would be very helpful, especially with the direction of the city's comprehensive plan for the use of the South that South method area. It would it would give us a little more idea of what better fits there if. That use is not compatible. Mr
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Because it's still a special permit, you're being, you're a least Your use is considered a leased use. So before that lease can be renewed, you would have to come back before our board for another special permit before the landlord can actually just allow you another lease just to make sure that it's complying again with the city's use for that area. We have a comprehensive plan, a vision for that area and As of right now, although it's industrial, it's not by right. So we're giving you a special permit because it goes against the uses that the city has moved forward with. So in order to continuously allow a use that's not compatible with the area, we need to make sure that there is more benefits than adverse effects, if that makes sense.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Alicia, did you want to add to that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, just we're trying to provide the city with some safeguards on how, like if there were adverse effects that outweigh the benefits going forward, how do we revisit that? And I'm not, again, in lieu of having a city solicitor here, I'm not sure how to move forward with that condition either. So I'm not, I guess we wouldn't condition it this evening if the city's not comfortable with it. We can have these answers in two weeks. Okay, yeah, so we'll take we'll table that for now, but keep it in if the city can actually report back on that that would be helpful. Vice chair Edelman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: absolutely clear that it was given the city a safeguard, but at the same time, I'm more invested in the comprehensive plan for the use of that area, especially having been on the comprehensive board steering committee. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, no, definitely. We definitely will. I wanted to just make sure that I got everyone. And then I have Mr. Bean, you have something to add?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So to reiterate what Daniel has already said, as of right now, the reason why you need a special permit is an auto glass shop is not the highest and best use for that area as per our comprehensive plan. However, because we found that there's more benefits than adverse effects as of today's date, the board has decided to allow it to go forward. But we are trying to figure out in five years, will that continue to be the case? So the best way to explain this is it's not the city's vision for that area. And I'm not sure that they would want to continuously allow that use in that area, especially after putting so much time and energy into zoning recodification and zoning amendments.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, and so just to, I want to make sure because now you have the tenant that's, and I understand, I would be the same way that you would continue to go forward. And so if this is something that does not need to be on the table, we can take it off. if it's not even something within our purview.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Hetherman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I'm willing to take it, definitely, as we've already said, we've already talked about what the conditions were and how we felt. And so we'll just leave it at a provisional approval pending the applicant coming back before us at 8th of April 3rd. And we'll, with those, the three conditions that we will maintain is to remove the barbed wire on the fence, prior to applying for a sign permit, the applicant must submit plans to the planning staff, and then the strike parking. We'll leave it at those three conditions and not entertain anything else as far as changes of police use, that would be up to the landlord. I will look for, in leaving it there, I will look for a motion to continue this to April 3rd, 2024.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sounds like you had a second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Hederman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fischman. Aye. Pam Mariansky. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Thank you, Mr. DiNucci. Thank you, Mr. Bain. Thank you, Mr. Hohner. I'm sorry if I'm saying your name incorrectly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good night. Thanks. And so the next item is approval of minutes. And Alicia, I'm going to ask for a motion to move the zoning overhaul updates until our next meeting. but we'll do the approval of minutes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, or an ongoing conversation so that we can definitely, because what the city is doing is actually providing us an opportunity to have these conversations with them before they just come with us and say, Hey, this is what we're doing. What do you feel about it? So they're bringing us in. So I truly appreciate it. But in saying that, I want to make sure that I have the time that permits to give quality feedback and not just, you know, just get it like a checkbox and get it off. So.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we can provide counsel and that's not like violate any kind of
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. Cause if we, if we all, if it's not a joint meet and then we all signed in and have comments, that's, that's definitely a quorum, but you are not the decision-making body at that point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. And when are the meetings if the committee on zoning and planning windows usually held?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. So a motion to approve the minutes from February 21st, 2024. Seconded. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Aye. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Mariansky? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Pam, did I call your name on the last thing that we voted on? Okay, I just wanted to, okay. I just wanted to make sure. I'm inserting names here because you guys keep switching on my screen. So it's like I wanted to make sure that I got you. Okay, so motion to adjourn. Unless, oh, before we adjourn, are there any other updates that the city may have or that the board may have? I will say that, and we'll discuss this more, but I've been thinking about revisiting rules and regulations, especially for administrative procedures on site plan review. And I know that site plan review is part of zoning, so I want to make sure that I have substantial comments for the board to review as well as the PDS staff. That's the only thing I've been thinking about. And I don't know if any of you have been thinking about any of the rules and regulations going forward, but that's something to probably provide to the PS staff as soon as possible, especially if it includes anything that's part of zone. So, but the administrative procedures, um, for site plan is what's been on my mind. So a motion to adjourn? I so move. Second. Vice Chair Emily Herrmann?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Mariansky? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Thank you all so much. Have a good evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Welcome to tonight's meeting of the Metro Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Medford's website. If, despite the best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of the meeting, tonight all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please also know that project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website, and that's visiting medfordma.org, and you can click on current city board filings. Alicia will provide a link in the chat. I'm going to do roll call attendance for the board. Vice Chair Emily Hederman. Present. Peter Cowles. It's muted. Just put a thumb up, Peter. And Ari Fishman. Present. Pam Arianski. Present. and I believe the only other is myself, Jackie McPherson. Alicia or another city staff member, can you please introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so the first item on the board, for the board to review tonight is 96-100 Winchester Street. It's a PDD, which is planned, PDD special permit site plan and special permit. So the CDB, the advisory to the city council will only be voting on a recommendation tonight. And I'm going to summarize the public hearing and the public meet and legal ad. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public meeting on February 21st, 2024 after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom to make a recommendation to City Council relative to an application by 96-102 Winchester Street, LLC for a planned development district special permit. and site plan review to permit the construction of a four-story, 65-unit residential building and a 4,000-square-foot commercial structure at the site known as 100 Winchester Street, comprised of properties located at 96 to 100 Winchester Street, Myford Bluffs, 02155. A public hearing will also be later held by the Medford City Council on March 12, 2024 at 7 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall at 85 George P. Hassett Drive. The Zoom link to the public hearing will be posted no later than 48 hours prior to that meeting. Does the staff have any opening comments for this project?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the new PDD1 overlay sets. new dimensional regulations that align with the approved preliminary plan. In order to build the proposed development, they must now receive a plan development district special permit and site plan review approval from city council. And that's where we're at now. So I am going to invite the applicant to introduce themselves and to please present your proposal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, please. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you all for your presentation. I do have some clarifying questions, but I think they'll probably be better fleshed out as we go through the department head comments, because there are plenty. I was looking at the traffic and you had mentioned that there was a level of service F, which is the worst of the levels. I'm trying to wrap my head around the mitigation that you were trying to explain for that. I'm trying to see what the level of service F had to do in regards to the mitigation that was suggested by the traffic engineer.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for clarifying. I just want to clarify my inquiry was that I understand that the no build scenario, but however, it's like, it's you create. no matter how many new cars you add to that intersection, it's still creating, it's adding to the instability of that breakneck point, right? And it's like, just like if you were on, I don't know, intersection 495, whether you build something new, intersection 495 is going to always be unstable at a loss of F. And I just want to know what were the other scenarios that you would do to create mitigation for that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Peter?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Peter.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Thank you. Do any other board members have clarifying questions? Okay, so I actually I'm not sure if there's so we this public comments and I just want to remind public or actually I haven't read it. I am not able to put on record anything that's sent to me and by chat. So please do not use the chat feature. So I'll open up the public comment now. So anyone has comments, they can speak. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Alicia in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. And depending on how many people we have, how many commenters, I will determine the limit. We'll start with three minutes per comment. And I see the first hand Martha, and I believe Martha, you're the one who has sent a message, so you can go first.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And anyone on the city, I'm not sure if we receive Ms. Martland's. I'm sorry, I believe she has another question. Before we go back to Ms. Martland, is there anyone else that has a question and we will circle right back to you. I'm sorry, Ms. McPartland, I apologize for saying your name incorrectly. Alicia, do you see any other comments or if you have anything to read from the queue or previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I believe it's Miss Martha McPartland. And if I have it incorrectly, if you can please unmute her and As you speak, I'm sorry, I'm not sure of your pronouns. I apologize. Please introduce yourself and give your address as well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much. I will have, we will have the city follow up with you if you can just hold tight. Alicia, can you please have one of your staff members follow up with Portland? And thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much, Alicia. And again, thank you, Attorney Borowsky and Mr. Quinn for following up. I do see one other comment from Jack's iPad. Alicia, can you please unmute and for the commenter, can you please identify yourself, state your name and your address?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, you can actually, yes, Mr. Quinn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I can read it now, but we're actually closing the public comments to go through all of the conditions and the department head comments, correct? I'll highlight this one for the commenter. Pre-demolition and pre-construction. They in our requirement for permit sign off from the board of health, ongoing reports from a licensed pet control company will be required. That will be a condition upon approval if approval is made to the city council.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there, I'm not sure. Okay. You can stop. I'm not sure if we're going to keep the sharing going for now or.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, if needed. Actually, I couldn't see anyone else. I just wanted to make sure before I close the comment period. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. All right, so I'm going to close the comment period now and I'm going to bring it back to the board to see if there's any clarifying, again, any clarifying comments that you are looking for or want to deliberate on now, especially to discuss the criteria for approval under site plan review and the PD special permit and potential conditions for approval actually. Alicia.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So before we can even go into this, we have to make sure that The site plan is actually in court. With the method zoning ordinance, the Community Development Board shall approve a site plan if the board finds that the site plan is consistent with the performance standards. for multiple dwellings or non-residential use described in section 6.4, and that the proposed development meets the standards listed in section 11.710. I will not read out all of those. However, that's where we're pulling from. So again, the standards for site plan review listed in section 11.7.10 of the zoning ordinance. And we're also looking for the criteria for approval for a special permit granting authority may approve the PDU special permit if the SPGA finds that all the following, that there are, I believe there are nine. And Alicia, usually Danielle will put these on the screen for the public to see. There are nine criteria that need to be met for the permit. And I'm not sure if you want to share those for the public or if we can just go over the conditions that need to be discussed and hashed out per the department heads prior to us even getting to that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So again, there's seven criteria under the site plan, and then there's about nine under the special permit granting agency. And our due diligence would be to make sure that we, that the proponent in the project is covering all of them. And based on city department head comments, if we were to approve this, there are conditions that would need to be met. specifically speaking, 41 conditions in total. And the city at this point will highlight those conditions for us. Or Alicia, would you like me to highlight them?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If you can specifically touch on the water, because that was one of, I had a question, but there's a condition that captures.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then the city's coals drainage system. Applicant shall update the plans to show the overflow pipes and connections, if any, to the city's coals drainage system. That's number 17. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that will be a condition to get the stormwater permit, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that would be a question, Attorney Baranski, for the proponent of Mr. Quinn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Tony Boranski. Ari, did you have a further question?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And looking over the conditions, what is the board's temperature on even grant and approval tonight? I'm not sure. I'm not sure that we're able to get, are we going to continue this or is this something that you feel comfortable with approving or suggesting, recommending for approval to the city council with so many things that are left open?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter, thank you for asking.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So hearing the city's stance on where they stand with these conditions, as well as the board, at least one board member, and the proponent being amenable to adhering to these conditions. I'm looking for a motion to recommend approval with conditions of the plan development special permit and site plan review for 96 to 104 Winchester Street. However, before we go there, is the board open to add a condition just for the city to explore more on the noise ordinance issue or the noise nuisance issue? Is that something that we can even condition at this point without having determined what that would be? Don't everybody answer at once?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Vice Chair Hedeman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And did we draft, I did not do any notation. Did we draft the actual approval language, the suggested approval language to city council for the noise nuisance?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Alicia. I was negligent in grabbing it. Usually I have an open document with the city and I will turn back and see that it's already there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Let me just.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So what you're saying is that in exploring and management of the mitigation of sound and the city council was to come up with the condition. And therefore the applicant decided that they just wanted to totally remove the roof. That could actually trigger a trip back to us for site plan review. And you want to stop that ahead of time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But it's not a major project. What determines it to be a major project? No, this is a major project because it's 29 units.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Attorney Barofsky, what is your take on this?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Try that language one more time, Alicia. A modification or removal of the roof deck will not require a return trip to the Community Development Board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I'm just wordsmithing some language here. So for the record, Alicia, I've sent you the language.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just at this point, not sure how much we can condition. Sort of like a condition that we're not even, I just want to make sure that we make it as easy and transparent for the proponent going forward. We don't want to add any undue hardship on them. But at the same time, I want to make sure that we capture it clear here. And that's why I'm looking for direction from the city on how to move forward with that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right, so I have a couple of, I have language to read, and I want to make sure that I grab that. Alicia, have you written that out? Can you share that with me? We've been along.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Hederman has, just before I read them out, she'll be right back. As soon as we get her back, I will read them out and then we can go. Back. Awesome. Okay, so this is in reference to 96 to 100 Winchester Street. I am looking for a motion to recommend approval with conditions of the plan development special permit and site plan review. We are also recommending that the city council explore condition with applicant that includes a requirement for management and mitigation of sound on the roof deck as part of their permanent management document. Any modification or removal which does not expand the roof deck will not be considered a significant site change and may be approved administratively by the Director of Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability. That's the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second. I'll second it. Vice Chair Emily Henneman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Mariansky. Aye. Myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. Thank you so much, Attorney Baransky, Mr. Quinn, and the rest of your team.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The board's saying yes. Okay. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi, thank you. I had actually. Thank you, I was on mute. I had started reading the agenda item and didn't realize I was on mute. So the next item on our agenda is 290 Salem Street, a special permit and This is for a special permit for neighborhood retail use and site plan review. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on February 21st, 2024 after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom relative to an application by 290 Salem Street, LLC for a special permit for neighborhood retail use and site plan review to permit the construction of a three-story mixed-use building that would contain seven residential units and two ground floor commercial units. at the site known as 290 Salem Street, comprised of properties located at 290 Salem Street and 209 Park Street, Medford, Mass. So I believe the staff has some introductory comments on this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So just to be clear, we are listening, we are opening up the hearing this evening, but we would not be considering a criteria for approval this evening. We will be providing feedback to the proponent. And with that, I'm gonna ask the applicant to introduce themselves and to present a proposal. Sorry. Yes, I'm Terry Vonosky. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Katya has entered. Katya? Yes, she's here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I should have actually had you keep up the engineering documents. One of the things of note were the dumpsters. Can you explain how you could access those two rectangular dumpsters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So help me understand. So I can see how you can get the one next to the car out. How do you get the one behind that out?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We don't have the city engineer here to say whether or not that that would be. You said that you had received his. actual comments, is that something that he referenced?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, thank you. Alicia, did you have any questions regarding this?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And so going back to the design, if you can go back to the design, actually, and one of the things that was mentioned is that you wanted it to fit into the context of the lot, like the corner of the way that the, not the, I'm sorry, this was the actual design of the building on the outside. That's what I'm looking for now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Back to, yes. Right there on the corner, it was mentioned how we wanted it to fit into the context of the lot and then play off the buildings across, but how does it fit into the context of everything else that's there? Can we have some site plans to show how it would actually fit into that context, like something from the back, the top, the side? And if you don't have them now, it can definitely be for the next time you before the board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Vice Chair Heidemann, you have a question?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And do you have any actual shadow studies, especially with it being on the corner like that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That would be something for consideration, just to let you know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And one of the comments, actually, that came up with, if you can clarify it, 30% of the usable open space, that was calculated. it would help if you have a plan that actually clearly shows that open space. And this goes back to engineering. But before you go, sorry, not to go back and forth, but on this one, on the ground floor, actually, sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: How did you calculate the open space? If you can clearly show that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then there were some traffic comments actually, the parking lot allows for at least one, the parking lot should strongly consider allowing for parking space associated with commercial uses. And that's just to enhance the area.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: One of the things that the city is concerned about is that residential parking always takes precedence over the commercial. And then the commercial will have to come back and get like a parking. So it's strongly recommended that the board requires a parking space for commercial at this point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: One per unit, allowing for parking. Alicia, can you clarify the city's preference for parking there?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And to reiterate Director Hunt's comment, this is a huge opportunity to pretty much live in that ground space for the pedestrian experience at this point. Keep that in mind, especially with how it's situated.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Does any of the board members have questions? Or any input at this time? Anything to add?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It would have to be a date certain. We're not able to approve anything prior to ZBA's actions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And if ZBA, and I don't want to speak anything into existence or anything like that, but say, for instance, ZBA denies their variance, they're back at square one for a design. So there's not much we can say or review tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Exactly. And just keep in mind that we understand that the ZBA needs some kind of design and that it's just a schematic at this point. So you want to keep in mind how much more of a percentage of design are you going to get to before you bring it before us. Because we're giving you this information that we're going to be looking for when you come back.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Alicia, what's the timeline for this?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Any other questions from the board? Well, because we've legally opened a public hearing, we can also do the public comments and that does not mean that we can't open the public comments again at the next meeting. So I will open them for now if there's members of the public. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Alicia in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not a part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to let myself and staff. Depending on the number, we will limit it. As of right now, I don't see any hands, so I will say it was about three minutes per person. Are there any members from the public present that want to... Alicia, have you received any comments, previous comments or emails or letters on this item?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What is the exact number of letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, we'll take that into record. I'm going to close the public comment period. Just keep in mind that we will reopen when there's additional materials to consider. So again, the board's not going to consider criteria for approval on the site plan review and special permit this evening. We're going to allow the zoning board to review the variances before completing that process, all those two processes. I would not, at this point, I'm not sure if we should deliberate on anything until the proponent is before us, but I'm open to hear what the rest of the board is saying or thinking.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's my thought. Vice Chair Hederman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to get the temperature from the board. Normally we would still deliberate because we open up the public hearing, but I didn't think it was necessary. Allow the proponent to go before the ZBA and then come back before us and then we can save everyone's time there. So I will look for a motion to continue the actual address, 290 Salem Street, special permit and site plan review to March 6th, 2024.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second. Vice Chair Edelman. Aye. Peter Coutts.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Mariansky. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. We will see you on March 6th. And as Alicia has said, if you feel as though you can't make that date, please contact the city.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm not sure that I saw minutes. The next item are minutes. No, the draft minutes are there. No, there were no minutes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's totally okay. I know that I didn't, I thought I was remiss in seeing them. And the next item is miscellaneous or anything like that, that the city or the board want to discuss. Hearing none, the next item is a motion to adjourn. So moved.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Hedlund? Aye. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Arianski? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I am at aye. Sorry, Emily, for pronouncing your last name wrong, but if you heard, I just pronounced my own incorrectly. I know what you meant. See you on March 6, everyone. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening, and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in process may do so by accessing the link that was provided on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Medford's website. If despite our best efforts we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the City's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please also know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website, which is medfordma.org. Danielle will provide the link in the chat. I'm gonna do a roll call attendance for the board. Starting with Ari Fishman. Present. Pam Marianski. Present. Sally Akiki. Present. And myself, Jackie McPherson. We have absent members. Danielle, can you please introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Our first item is Walkley Court PDE for special permit for site plan review as well as special permit review. I will read the public hearing notice for it. The Method Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on February 7, 2016. 24, after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom remote video conferencing relative to an application for site plan review. Submitted by the Medford Housing Authority for the demolition of all existing buildings on the site to be replaced by a mid-rise building with 198 apartments for elders and seniors and four buildings with 40 family units, 24 units in a low-rise building and 16 townhomes and three buildings. The CDB board will also hold a public meeting relative to the application for plan development permit, special permit for the same matter. A subsequent public hearing for the application of the plan development special permit on the same matter will be held by the Medford City Council on February 20th, 2024 at 7 p.m. in Medford City Council Chambers, which is located on the second floor of Medford City Hall. Danielle, can you please introduce Anyone from the Medford Housing Authority?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. And, uh, just to quickly clarify, uh, the approval of the zoning does not necessarily approve the project. That's what we will be doing our due diligence this evening along with the public. And in saying that I invite the Redford House or whoever the representative from Redford House Authority to please present. Mr. Cicerello. Hi. Oh, Daniel, can you please unmute?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Attorney Kilson and Mr. Driscoll and the entire team of representatives of MHA. We appreciate you going through the details of this proposed project. I do, before I open it up to others, I have one clarifying question. We did not hear more about the noise. I want to make sure I didn't miss something on noise standards. And if there was previously, there was a concern with tenants being too close to a railroad or something like that, and I want to make sure that we have already accounted for that instance as far as noise. Noise as a nuisance, pretty much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I appreciate it. And at this point, I do know that there was some feedback from the department heads, and I'm not sure if you've all had a chance to read those. And so instead of going through them as the conditions, I'm going to open up to the board to see if the board has any clarifying questions prior to me opening up to the public. Does anyone from the board have questions? And I can't see. And if I can please ask, just so that we can see everyone, whoever is sharing the screen, if you can please stop sharing at this point. If there's any members of the board that have questions prior to opening it up to the public. Any clarifying questions? Okay, seeing none. This is a public hearing, so I will now open it up for public comment. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it's not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself or staff. Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters in the order in which you choose?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry, I don't mean to cut you off, but I wanna make sure that everyone is limited and able to get through with their comment.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Krause.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Pugh. I don't see any other hands raised. Daniel, do you have public comments to read?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, seeing none, I'm going to close the public comments portion and ask the board again if there's any other information that they want to have clarified. before deliberation?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Alicia. I appreciate that. I've been remiss on the actual public comments, but I'm hoping that from your end, you can share that information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What is the legality of it? Do you have to acknowledge it or read the entire?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is not to negate any kind of concerns or anything, but as far as not having enough space for a fire truck, I am sure at this point the fire chief would have address that at this point. So I would look to the city to make sure that that was handled. And then the traffic engineer for the traffic study has accepted the traffic study with conditions. As far as the height, the whole idea of it being a zoning amendment was to accommodate the project for a path forward. So I'm not sure how to address the comments. going forward if they've been sufficiently covered.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You don't need to respond to them. I just, I don't want the public to think that we're not taking their concerns into question, but I'm just trying to highlight that these are things that have been fully vetted and addressed by city officials and Method House and in their team. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: At this point, I would, if Medford Housing or any of its representatives would like to touch upon any of the concerns that have been placed before them, they're more than welcome to. I personally don't find it necessary because it has been presented in detail. And then following up with the conditions, I think that will cover most of the other concerns. But I'm going to leave that up to my fellow.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So again, at this time, I am going to open up to the board again for clarifying comments and deliberation. Ari, I had seen your hand raised first. Do you want to go ahead and speak, Ari?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you, Daniel. I was actually, my question was when I heard that there was not going to be a proposal in traffic mitigation, that's what I want to go back and want to know what the proponent had, if you had had a chance to read the department head comments, or if that was something that we were going to collectively do at the end with conditions, if there was approval. But there are a significant amount of conditions that we'll have to go over prior to us being able to approved site plan or recommend to the city council for a special permit at this point. And hearing no other comments from the board, I do know, and based on my review and based on confirmation from the city, the plans have not changed based on what was adopted and recommended by the CDB board, by the city council previously. So at this point, if we did want to approve, I'm guessing we would be looking at the conditions as presented. And if Danielle, I know that in lieu of saying comply with this person's memo dated X or that person's memo, if you can neatly collect them and pretty much go down the line for us so we're all on the same page and understand what those conditions are before the proponent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, that would be helpful.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Driscoll?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Meaning if we were to decide on it as part of the site plan review?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I can see that as protecting the natural resources at this point, but I'm just not seeing how it would be incorporated into the site plan review, but maybe definitely the special permit. As a recommendation, I would like to know the temperature of the rest of the board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Sally. Anyone else?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And as far as the board approving this evening, There's no pressure, because we have the purview to continue till a date certain if there's a lot of information here that you need to digest, especially with hearing new information that has not been shared with the entire PDS staff as of now. But if we feel comfortable, which I can only speak for myself, feel comfortable with knowing that the proponent will work with the department heads and the city, and as long as the proponent is amenable to these conditions, that these are not something that they're not amenable to, or what was going to cause an issue or something like that. But as long as you're willing to work together going forward, I'm okay with the approvals tonight, but I don't know how the board is failing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much, Attorney Kilson.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so at this point, what I'm looking for is a motion to approve with conditions as set forth. Site plan review for one in three to 20 walk-in court from Merford Housing Authority, and that excludes miscellaneous conditions. I'm not even sure if that's proper language, but approve with conditions minus the miscellaneous condition for site plan approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I second. And before we actually do the motion, does that even capture the approval properly?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, and according to the zoning ordinance, the Community Development Board has approved, has found approval that is consistent with the performance standards as described in section 6.4 of section 11.7.10. Does that need to be stated for the record? It also meets the proposed development standards as listed in section 11.7.10. You think that captures it? State it out again, and we'll do it one more time, a motion to approve both conditions minus the miscellaneous condition as set forth for the site plan review for one and three to 20 Walkland Court for Medford House with Dawn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call. Ari Fishman. Aye. Sally Akiki. Yes. Pam Mariabansky. Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. And now I'm looking for a motion to recommend as a referral board to the city council for plan development district special permit, micro housing authorities one and three to 20 walk on court along with the miscellaneous condition that the applicant shall contribute $50,000 to the city for the dedicated purpose of purchasing and installing public trees throughout the city.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Sally Akiki? Yes. Pam Marionski? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. Thank you so much to Medford Housing Authority, to Ms. Kilson, Attorney Kilson, and to Mr. Morissette and to everyone else that has prepared and Mr. Driscoll. There's so many of you, but thank you so much for all of your, your detailed information this evening and for such a great project. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so for the board's order of business, the next is approval of minutes. A motion to approve, let's see what the minutes are. What date?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can we do them collectively or do they have to be called out individually?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: To follow, right? Yeah. Yeah. a motion to accept the meeting minutes from 12, 2023.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Sally Akiki. Yeah. Pam Marianski? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson, yes. And actually I went backwards and I apologize, but a motion to accept the meeting minutes from 12-6-23. I motion, Sally. Second. Let's see, roll call. Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sally Kiki? Yes. Pam Marianski? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm a yes. And the next item, miscellaneous or any other updates that the city may want to share with us?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I wanted to put a shameless but very, very beneficial plug out for CPTC, the Citizens Planner Training Collaborative. We're having our annual conference at the Holy Cross on Saturday, March 16th. I say we because I'm a board member, and it's been a lifesaver for me, especially being a new board member previously and not working at the local, being a planner but not working directly in a local level and knowing how to, handle municipal planning and land use and that's pretty much what it is. It trains up planning boards and municipal planning staff on the use of land, on land use, like the newest trends and part of what the annual conference, what I like about the annual conference as opposed to like just the webinars or the on-demand training Is that there's going to be everything there you mentioned emily and she's doing like a site plan review. So again, this is a shameless plug for march 16th It's I think not only for your staff alicia, but for the so but not that you want to give up your saturday like I am um, but It's a wealth of information that um that people can really get into you who's going forward here on the board or In your planning career like if you are a plan I agree i've been i've attended those in the past and um
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Of course there's not, Alan. Only because they were so, it's like, get the information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And it's like you wanted everyone to save the date, but it's like you're going to have to save the date. You got to build up this interest. You got to go to the thing and we're still trying to figure out where to plug people in. We're still trying to get keynote speakers. Last year, we were able to get the lieutenant governor. We jumped on her because, you know, she was coming into office and she's a planner, literally. Well, she's a lawyer, but she's she's a planner so and it's one of those things where she loved the opportunity so she came right into it being you know in her role but now we can't even get a keynote so we're trying to figure everything out this year and we said don't put anything on the on the website don't tell anyone about the registration and it looks like they did so i'm telling you word of mouth because i didn't think that there was anything on the website yet But just more of a state of the date. I mean, but Alicia, if you want, I can pretty much email you what's on there. Like I know MBTA communities and 3A and stuff like that. There's a lot of interest that planners have said over the course of these sessions. And I pride myself in being a planner, and I have AICP, but at the same time, I lose my skills because I don't use it at the local level the way you guys do. And being in this role right now, it's like I'm always, I feel so intimidated because I'm with these other chairs sitting around Massachusetts. I'm like, oh, they're going to know so much more than me. And I sat next to someone who was like, are you excited about 3A legislation? He was like, what's that? And I'm like, oh, so I do know more than you. Wait, that's impossible. So this is hugely needed. I want to humble myself and say there's a lot of things I'm still learning, too. Boys just need it, boys.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is different from the webinar. In our conference now, not only is it in Worcester and Central Massachusetts, but you do get fed, like Daniel said, but it's an all-day event, 8 to 3.30. But we've gone up to $100 for the registration now, just to let you know. So when you said it's still pretty much affordable, but it's a little bit more than what people- You know, APA charges like $1,800 for registration. And except for the core courses, like the comprehensive planning, zoning, and things like that, you get AICP credits, if you're AICP. I mean, if anyone cares about that. So I just wanted to let everyone know. I don't want to drone on and on about that, but I did want to send that plug out, especially when Alicia mentioned Emily Ennis, because she is there, and some of the other people that are hands-on with helping planners, like Julie Barrett, they'll be there. My agency is there. We can't get the secretary to do economic development plan, but we are going to do a one-stop session like we did last year. That's AICP credit, too.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I'm definitely definitely zoning board of appeals and, and planning board officials, pretty much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, there's this real cool one this year. They're doing a Laurel and Hardy go to planning school pretty much. It's going to be a play on how you arrive at that decision. So that's pretty cool. So anyways, again, not to hold you up any longer, but I just wanted to throw that out there because I thought it was pretty awesome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. Thank you, Alicia. Okay, so hearing no other updates, a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Ari Fishman? Yep. Polly Akiki. Yeah. Pam Mariansky. Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. Good night, everyone. Thank you. Bye, everyone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This hearing of the Metro Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the CF Medford's website. If, despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please note that the actual meeting materials for tonight before the board can be viewed on the city's website at medfordma.org. You can click on city board filings, and Danielle will provide the link in the chat for if there's anyone on the public. I'm going to do a roll call attendance. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Present. Peter Cowes? Peter's not in. Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Mariansky. Present. Sally Akiki.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. Okay. And Danielle, you can introduce any staff on the call.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. And so first meet an agenda, Daniel, can you remind me while I am still fumbling?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I saw some that were old and it referenced... It's just to answer the open meet and laugh, the temporary provisions have been extended by Governor Haley until March 31st of 2025. 2025, okay. I was hoping it was 2025.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And this is. Composition of the board. If I'm not mistaken, this has been given to each board member since as, as brought on, correct? No.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That was the intention, so I'm not sure where that was left at.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I definitely think so. I can only speak for myself. It warrants us to go through it. It's just I didn't know how much we would get through it tonight. No, no. One of the things I want to be clear on is that we definitely have to do some adjustments, right? And that's even administrative sort of things with the filing of applications and shutting them down. We had discussed that previously as a board, just going forward and, like, you don't want to get something on a Friday night and then have to, like, scramble to read it over the weekend for the following week, kind of. Yeah, so my opinion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, and just giving the board some time to digest it and see if there's anything that you can recommend or that you want to discuss as a group on what can be changed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, go ahead, Emily.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, I mean, I just- Yeah, not so much a motion at this point, but I'm interested in knowing the feedback from other board members, and it just can be, again, how it'll go forward. Because I'm sure no one, you're not going to be able to take this in right now. We might go away. and be like, oh, we should have said this, we should have said that. But again, it's like Daniel said, it's more of an open discussion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It is good information, because from my understanding, this would be given to every new board member as part of their onboarding, and it sounds like no one has it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So make sure that all board members have it on. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, no, I hear what you're saying, but at the same time, I'm a little, since we have a meeting and we're open, I'm trying to just get more feedback from other board members and not just like, just my hearing myself for.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So that's, that's pretty much my feeling from the beginning, but I just want to make sure that I'm not like tabling it and other people wanting to discuss it. And in that case, I guess we can just, if someone wants to give the motion, I guess.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Hederman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Mariansky? Aye. Sally Akiki? Aye. Wait, she's not here. Sharad Bhattacharya?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. And so the next item, Daniel, was fee schedules. Do you want to lead us in discussion on what you were thinking with the fee schedules?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Emily.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. These are planned board, but it's up to the office of, uh, it's up to Daniel's office to make sure that we're in compliance with, uh, the amounts that we can charge. What does that mean? It sounds like Danielle has done it. Like, um, whatever the fees or just, like, just, like, develop. If I'm not mistaken, Danielle, it's the same, like, if we were charging developer, like, some kind of fee or something like that, right? We have to make sure that we're in compliance and that we're not overcharging for certain things, or is this more administrative?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry, Katie. For myself, going back to something Emily said, I didn't... I guess I mixed this up with, like, developer impact fees. You know, that can be... that can violate Fifth Amendment if we don't... because it's regulatory, right? We have to make sure that we're within reason. And so since this is more like an administrative kind of staff thing, it's just building a case for us to pretty much adopt. And I guess we just need a little bit more information on... Obviously, we know it's going to impact the city somewhat for the deficit, but just give us something to vote on, I think, a little bit more background. I see you did the research, but I would love to know, like, what we're charging versus another one, another community that's near us or something like that, just to see where we're at in comparison, just so that people have more confidence to vote on what you're presenting, because, again, this should still be, to me, a city staff kind of thing. But since it's not.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm sorry. I don't want to be rude. I'm going off camera just to grab my plug. I'm not going to turn the camera off. And I'm just going to jump up and grab my plug.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, no, I just I'm trying to work from two different and I just can't see everyone because it's suppressed. I'm sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, for this item itself, just because, I mean, I don't want to be the odd one out, but I'm, I definitely have an idea of how low our fees are already, but I have more of an advantage based on dealing with other cities and towns. And so the fact that we are so low, but I don't want that to be a reason why I'm ready to vote. I would need the entire board to feel confident and vote in. One of my biggest questions to Danielle was just what does that entail to bring you guys to confidence? I mean, without me even saying that I know other communities and what they charge, the fact that this hasn't been done in 1974, since 1974, that's a reason to up them. But what do we up them to? Are we going high enough?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that's exactly where I came to. Are we even going high enough? And will we have to revisit this again to go higher? Will we be doing this a second time?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And again, the linkage fees are the same as impact fees, right? That's allowed through special... I will tell you legally, no.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm sorry. 1, 2nd, and my question regarding the link histories, because we're tabling it. Someone had asked earlier if we can table the link histories and be separate and I wanted to make sure and Alicia had responded saying that you needed a study and everything like that. So I wanted the board to have a full understanding that that was like a regulatory thing. or if it was through legislation or if it's something that we can even discuss going forward. So I wanted to make sure that that was clear. And Alicia has answered that question. So again, I guess us voting tonight would be, it would definitely take linkage fees off the table, but what does that look for us? What does that look like for us going forward anyways?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And going back to Emily's question, um, to move the board forward, what do we need to establish tonight? Um, are we voting? Is there, are we in a position to vote or are we tabling this to the next meeting? And that's me opening it up to the board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I'm sorry, I had loosely heard, we didn't put it in writing. We didn't capture it. But basically, the conversation had bounced back, like, I don't know, give it a date, sir. And I like Emily's idea of maybe like rolling this out in a month, get given some time, and then, you know, let them know that it's coming. And then maybe look at it later. And it'd be more incremental later. But right now, roll this out, and give them time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, Peter has joined us. Peter, did you hear enough to even?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But no, don't worry. So it took my husband and I nearly 40 minutes to get from Medford to Medford tonight. We went to get pizza and avelinos and we couldn't get home. I'm exaggerating. It wasn't 40 minutes, but it was forever. We're going to do the word play again. If you could try one more time, Ari, sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll second the motion. Okay. Roll call. Vice Chair Emily Hederman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Kautz is abstaining. Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Ariansky? Aye. Chirag Bhatracharya?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an I. Okay, and we have minutes. The next item on the agenda is minutes for, is it from 11? Let's see. All right, I have two prep documents open here. All right, is there a motion to approve the minutes from 11-15-23? Motion. A second? Second. Okay, Vice Chair Emily Hedeman, oh, were you, you could. I was gonna abstain. Okay. Just to let you know, going forward, one of the things that I've learned Correct me if I'm wrong, Danielle. Even if you weren't there, you're just voting the minutes to be filed. You don't have to have been there. Is that correct, Danielle? It's true. Okay. But you can also abstain. That's your right. Peter Kautz? Aye. Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Mariansky? Aye. Sharad Vajracharya? Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye. Okay. Um, and before adjournment, there's, are there any miscellaneous or other updates? Um, is this where you want to discuss the meeting schedule for 2024, Danielle?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And this just, I mean, it works for me, but I want to make sure this, is this a date that we're still, because I remember we changed them to accommodate schedules. Emily, are you still in school? Not to put you out, just anyone. I just want to make sure that this still works for everyone and that you don't need to change it for whatever reason.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We've tried to accommodate members as much as possible going forward. Like if there was something else that there was a conflict and we wanted to make sure and you would never be able to be there, then obviously we want to look at a date that we get most of our board members. And it seemed like Wednesday we fell on where everyone could pretty much be there. Now that there's new members, I just want to make sure that that's still the same. And I also want to make sure that it's still a good day for the former board members.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's exciting. I'm happy that you're fully staffed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, for my eldest daughter, it's her birthday. It's not Christmas, so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm going to do a roll call attendance. If there's no other updates or anything that anyone wanted to share. I will do a roll call for adjournment.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Hederman. Aye. Peter Cowes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Marianski.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sherrod Butchbacheria.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oop, there we go, 146 Pine Ridge Road. I've not been on this side of the rail too often. But this all seems vaguely familiar. So before I go on with the MEF, I first wanna assure you that there is life after school committee. And this is the very first school committee meeting that I've attended after two years, because I've been so busy. But it's a pleasure to see both the mayor, the superintendent, once fellow school committee members and school committee elect. Congratulations to you, by the way. Now, I did serve with two of you for six years, and Sharon, I didn't get to serve with you, but it was a great comfort when I left knowing that you were going to take the seat because I knew you had diligently prepared by coming to so many school committee meetings that you knew your stuff and you could step right in. So while I didn't get to serve with you, I'm certainly grateful to you. To Kathy, Kathy, oh my God, so much time spent together. And, you know, a couple of words kept on coming up. One, diligent. Oh my God, Kathy was the most careful about preparing for every meeting, making sure she had read and understood everything and had thought thoroughly through. Just amazing dedication. And of course, one of the things that really stands out to me is being able to meet your husband and of course your incredible son Noah, who became a friend and who we enjoyed seeing all the time and who I still see his posts and whatever, and he's, of course, continuing doing wonderful volunteer work. So hello to Noah. I'm sure the time now has come where you'll really get to relax and you worked so hard. You really deserve it, Kathy. So thank you very much. And to Mia, when I thought about you, there's one word that stands out for me. Not blunt, but moral. I remember in those first two years when we serve together, which there was some really difficult times, because, yeah, there were some difficult times in the other, you know, pandemic and everything, but there were some really difficult times, and you led. with a deep moral sense that I just really think was wonderful, because there was a lot of pressure. And I so appreciated that from you. And of course, with you, it's been a delight to meet all your family members, your husband Tim, to watch the kids grow. And that's one of the things that as we, you know, sometimes forget there's a real, when we're working together every week and over the years, you get to know everybody's family. So anyway, congratulations to you. I know this has been a long time coming and I know you're going to enjoy it. And just in case you get bored now, you and I have already talked about it, but Kathy, you know, and Sharon, the Medford Educational Foundation is looking for more members and, So I'd like right now to invite you to join us because we have this fantastic little group of dedicated people. Some of them are not here tonight, some of them I'll introduce. But we've been working sort of behind the scenes for roughly seven years. I actually have to go back and figure it out sometime. The Medford Educational Foundation was started way long ago, maybe 20 plus 25 years, by the late, great Bob Gilligan, attorney Bob Gilligan, and Gene Bralt, or Len Bralt, excuse me. It lasted for a couple of years, and then it kind of went by the wayside. Ann Kasuth and I resurrected it about seven or eight years ago, and we've been working behind the scenes ever since that time. Today, tonight, on behalf of the Medford Educational Foundation, I am writing you to formally ask you to accept a donation to the Medford Public Schools to cover the specific grants that we are able to fund at this time. Each year, we have two times during the year where we accept applications from teachers, and we ask them either to apply for a grant of zero to $200 or another grant from $200 to $2,000. And we accept those grants. And then as a body, we deliberate on the grants. We check out with the schools that The projects are consistent with the educational values and direction that the school system must go in or is going in. And Diane Caldwell, who of course you guys all know, has been extremely helpful in being a partner with us and volunteering her time so that we could make these grants. This December, we received over 38 requests from teachers who outlined specific projects or requests that they believe would enhance their students' learning experience. While we would have loved to fund each and every one of them, we met as a group and decided which grants we could fund in their entirety, which grants we could partially fund, and sadly, which grants we couldn't afford at this time. The December application cycle yielded more than $24,000 in requests, and we have been able to fund $13,058.86. So tonight, we're asking you to approve our donation, and I do want to mention that we've done this before but we haven't been asked to present it to you. But we also gave over $10,000 in the spring for example too. However, we would not be able to do the work we do with the support of our donors. we want to acknowledge the generosity of Needham Bank, and especially Vice President and Branch Manager, Jean Kalau, who presented us with a total donation of over $10,000 this year. And... This is Jean. Jean, stand up. Jean. This connection between us and Jean was because of Mia. And so we are extremely appreciative for that because it sure has helped this year. As you can see, our requests are steadily increasing. And in fact, it's, you know, we need more money. We need more money, Jean. So, and let's see, I wrote, the Medford Education Foundation has kept a low profile, but has been receiving, reviewing, and funding grants to teachers over the last seven years. This coming year, we hope to share our good news more widely as we anticipate the need to raise more funds for the many requests we find ourselves receiving. That is code for don't be surprised if you get a letter. Anyway, I'd just like to take a second to acknowledge the rest of the members I have with me. David Sayers, David coordinates all the grants. In the second row, Stephen Hayes. Stephen Hayes makes sure that all the money is aligned. And by the way, we have been working with Gerry McCue and Noel Velez right now. And I wish I had one of those big checks, but we know better to waste money on this, on necessities. So here's the check and they're not here. So I guess superintendent, I'm going to give it to you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we have a motion for approval?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So now I can officially hand it over. Steve should really be up here. So our treasurer, Steve, is very diligent and tracking all of this. And, you know, we hope after we closed our time period for receiving the grants, we received several more on top of that. And the other place where we've had donations, apart from private donations, which we also solicit and accept happily. The Medford Community Fund has also been generous to us, and I want to acknowledge that. So again, it's great to see you all. Have a great night, and thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We'll get started. Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the micro community development board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some regulatory procedure matters. This hearing of the Mecca Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or review this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda. posted on the city of Medford's website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting tonight, all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at medfordma.org and by clicking on current city board filings. Danielle will provide the link in the chat. I will do a roll call attendance. Vice Chair Emily Hedeman, has she? No. Sally Akiki? Present. Sherrod Bachbacheria?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Irie Fishman? Present. Pam Marianski? Present. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Danielle, can you introduce anyone on staff that's on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. Thank you. This is a continued public hearing to consider and vote on our recommendations to city council regarding the zoning overlay to comply with the MBTA community zoning law. At the last meeting, the board members were supportive of the proposed overlay. However, there was discussion regarding the appropriate parking minimums and maximums, such as reducing parking minimums to 0.5 spaces per unit or requiring no parking minimums at all. We asked staff to model the unit capacity yields for the 0.5 spaces. So the city has reported back. Danielle, if you want to highlight that, and if the board wants to start deliberations from there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have the, is it the Downtown Trout Work Zoning Study? Is that the slides that Daniel shared?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Emily, do you have a question?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I I echo Emily, 1 of the things that I stand firm with, and I understand that the city has, you know, you take away park and even with transit oriented development, then you'll still see a spillover. But at the same time, it's like the whole idea of it being compliant and dealing with the transit oriented is that we're trying to prioritize people. over cars. So I am all for the more housing units that we can get on a property, whether they're built or not, but removing that barrier and offering that incentive for a developer to take up if they so choose. So that's where my stance is. So I don't know if there's any other questions that's leading up to us and what we need to do for recommendations. And as far as maximum parking, I would say we definitely want to I'm all for bringing it down under the 1.5 maximum if needed, but I don't know how the board feels about that. This is just picking up on what we were talking about at the previous meeting. I don't know if anyone had any comments on the maximum parking or if there's any other comments on the parking overall.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And also still definitely keeping in mind equity for people that actually really need to utilize those spaces, whether it's a disability or they're caring for someone or whatever the reason is, we're still allowing it there. It's not going into zero, but so we're making notice that, yeah, parking is needed, but again, minimal parking. All right, so, Danielle, I know that you wanted us to sort of give some feedback on developer incentives. Did anyone have any further discussion on how you thought the incentives played out in the amendment? Or any additional thoughts from what was captured at the last meeting? Or if you wanted to add anything to Daniel's suggested or not suggested, but they're captured development incentive bonuses, or are you fine with how they are as is. Is the board ready to vote on a recommendation for the. Is it, it's the approval of the amendment for the zoning overlay to send to City Council or to recommend to City Council?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, thank you, Director Hunt. That's my oversight. I actually, this is a continuation of a public hearing. So I absolutely do, before we go on with the vote, I want to open up to the public, whether there's members representing the public or not, just to give them the opportunity. So at this point, I will open up the public comment period. So those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.gov. Individuals may have up to three minutes to provide comments. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and C-staff. Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue? And once that's done, if you, Alicia or Danielle, if you have anything that you want to read, emails or letters, or even if you want to, I know that we had one at the previous meeting, if you want to read that out again, I'm not sure if it's necessary.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, with that said, close the public comment period and come back to the board and sort of try to piece this all together and decide which scenario we are going to recommend to city council. If we're going to all recommend to city council, are we going to do 0.5 and drop a story, which is four stories or keep 0.85 stories for minimum parking? So we will have to decide on one of those scenarios. What was presented was the original 0.5 with four stories, or are we going to 0.8? Originally, it was 0.8 with five stories. Are we going to go to 0.5 and drop a story, four stories? No, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So because the zoning amendment has been presented for us, this is where we can actually change it. So we would be voting collectively at the end for whatever we decide. care for whatever we rectify here. Is that correct, Danielle? We don't have to do a motion for which we're choosing. We just have to actually do a motion for whatever the recommendation is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Or we can recommend to keep it active.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Number seven.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The actual recommendation of city council is not just to approve, but also to adopt. That's two different motions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Yes. That's the motion I would be looking for from the board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. So to clarify, Robin's rules are she would have had to have watched it previous to tonight's meeting and had signed off saying that she watched it and then she can continue tonight and vote. Correct.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So at this point, we would need a motion to recommend to City Council that they approve the Wellington Station Multifamily Overlay District As amended, for the parking spaces, are we doing 0.8 or 0.5? I guess that would be more of a discussion for the board to see. Peter, what was your I guess it's not really a roll call, but if I, if I, I guess, call out, then you can tell me what your voice is for. Park and minimums and maximum. So Peter. Yep. Are you voting to amend it? We discussed at the last meet, and it was originally 0.5. It was originally 0.8 with five stories, and are we amending it? Are we keeping that for minimums, or are we going to 0.5, four stories?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Actually, Sally, also for your maximum, are you at 1.5 or 1.2? And Peter?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're not going to vote to recommend that at all?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Pam Marianski?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and then myself for the record. Did I? Me. Oh, I'm sorry, Ari.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I think that's where we got into the development incentives and how that played into the parking. And I'm almost positive, but Sharad can share more of his side of that's where he was a little apprehensive about with the density and so forth.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I believe the city responded, please correct me if I'm wrong, but this is the area outside of that is already planned for, the city has planning goals for like commercial and lab space, not residential. So that's pretty much why moving to another part of the city is not really feasible with compliance for one or with the city's planning goals. And so as highlighted by Danielle with the previous meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter, you have a question?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So with that being said, I want to make sure that we're all, I guess, even for myself, I inadvertently assumed that the 0.55 stories was given us more. I'm not sure how we got that backwards.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then remind me of the affordable units. If there's affordable units, it has to be set at 0.5, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm assuming that that's pretty much where the rest of the board was coming from too, 0.8, because it's not written. It's just a barrier removed. They can do what they can, but then it's more so the maximum that we were really looking to change. But we wanted to bring it down to 0.8 to give them the option, even if it's not something that they pick up on. So 0.8 for minimum, and then perhaps 1.2 for maximum. I thought that's where I landed. And it looks like Ari landed there, as did Peter. So that's three of us, but we have Sally with 1.5 maximum, and Pam with 1.5 maximum. And Sherrod, Emily abstaining, and Sherrod, a no.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, so now we have. All right, so I guess, so let me just let me try this. So are we prepared to vote on a recommendation with the motion to recommend to city council that they approve the Wellington station multifamily overlay district as amended to 0.8, which is five stories for minimum parking and 1.2 for maximum parking and making sure to add the Y for non-commercial greenhouse, tool shed, or similar assessment structure? Did I get that right, Alicia?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It was originally 0.8.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So for myself, I'm not a transportation planner, but dealing in economic development and some of the things that I know that goes into the traffic engineering and everything that comes with developers and their incentives, I'm willing to keep it at 1.8 to keep it attractive, even though, I mean, I don't know how the board feels about going to 0.5 at this point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And we don't want the city to lose an economic development planner before they get them. So I guess am I? I'm going to reiterate here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And so that's what I'm just trying. And I'm trying to stay out as much as the conversation as possible, because as you know, just what would be in my previous agency, well, now that we're separated, the whole idea of it being an MBTA rule is to eliminate parking minimum. So I'm trying not to be too heavy handed on my, my share and why I think it should be. I prefer for the boards to deliberate and for us to get to an agreement of what the minimum parking is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, no, which is great. And I like I said, I just I allow you to go I it this is great for other members. And it's even you know, great for the members of the audience, the public and even myself just to hear it. But I already know that I am sort of biased in where I sit, unfortunately.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I'm looking more at the maximums than I am at the minimums, but it looks like. So we would be amending to so we were at this point. We were asking for a vote to recommend just to get a little bit more of the boys temperature again. So Peter, you're now saying 0.5. And to be clear, can the city clarify what the actual. parking minimums around other transit areas in Medford?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I can go with either the 0.8 or 0.5 for minimums, but I'm definitely, my vote is for the 1.2 for maximum. So I guess we just have to come back to agreement because as of right now, we only have Ari and Peter that are saying 0.5 for minimums. So we have to get that clear.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, based on what he's already shared with us, I deduce that. All right, Ari for minimum?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sam?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So yeah, I'm the same for me for the minimums, either 0.8 to 0.5. And I definitely hear that, especially myself taking MBTA from where I sit, we're not at a point where Medford can just start dropping parking spaces. But at the same time, even though I think I'm less than, I'm a little bit over half a mile, but even I can get to Wellington station easily. So the fact that this is like right there in the Wellington station area, that's not one of my biggest concerns, and I will stand by my 1.2 for maximum, but I can be swayed for 0.8, 0.5 for minimum. So looking at that overall, if I was to change to 0.5 to keep it, it would be Peter, myself and Ari, have the same numbers as does PAM, so that's four. That's voting for 0.5 minimum, 1.2 maximum to get it passed. So in that case, we would be amending because it came in at 0.8. So we're looking for a motion to recommend to city council that they approve the Wellington Station Multifamily Overlay District with the amendments for 0.5. It's 0.5 minimum parking and 1.2 maximum. And then add the Y to the use table.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there a second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll do a roll call with. So I have Peter Cowles.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Yes. Pam Marionski. Yes. Sally Akiki. Yes. Myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm a yes, and we have one no, which is Sharad. We didn't get your no. Well, we've heard your no, Sharad, but I should have called you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. So we have five yeses for the recommendation to city council.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I have a motion to recommend to city council that they approved the Wellington station multifamily overlay district with the amendments to from 0.8 spaces from 0.5 spaces per dwelling to 0.8. Well, there's 0.8. From 0.8 to 0.5, Jackie. Yeah. Did you go from 0.5 to 0.8? We're not keeping it. We're changing it. Sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We're amending it from 0.8 to 0.5. OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. And then we're also amending the maximum from 1.5 to 1.2. And then we're adding a yes to the use table where it needs to be. Do I have to spell that out? That's based on my table. It's number 7 for non-commercial greenhouse to shed or similar accessory structure. Is that a sufficient motion or recommendation?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, we have five yeses and one abstention.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Tomorrow, okay. And we have the next item on the agenda is approval of minutes, but we have none. So we'll go to the next item, which is miscellaneous and other updates.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And you're looking to get like members of the community as well for the steering committee?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the role in zoning with the comprehensive plan, I'm trying to see how will this, because zoning is the land use like laws that inform the comprehensive plan that we just did with the steering committee, which I love being on. So how will that change the comprehensive plan going forward? Will it, it's going to have a huge.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So you need the zoning changes to actually implement the comprehensive plan as visioned?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I didn't realize we had so many regulatory changes. I guess I was so romanticized by the idea of having a collaborative vision of the community that I didn't realize. And now we have to work backwards to make it happen. I mean, I knew we had to, because obviously, being part of it, there were some things that just doesn't exist. I didn't realize now we got to actually change the rules to match the plan.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. Thank you, Alicia. I think this is one of the longest shortest meetings ever. So I'm going to ask for a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And as long as we don't talk about anything on the agenda that's coming up or has passed, we're good, right? So I don't know who would initiate that, like, just send you an email and say, hey, this will be awesome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, wait a minute, let's back up for the record. Robert's Rules, motion to adjourn. It has to be through the chair, Vice Chair Emily Henneman. Yes, I am.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sally Akiki? Yes. Sharad Bhattacharya?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Mariansky? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Thank you, everyone. Good night.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was provided on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Medford's website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting tonight, all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at medfordma.org and by clicking on current city board filings. Danielle will provide the link in the chat. I'm going to do a roll call attendance. Sally Akiki. Present. Sharad Bajracharya. You have 30 seconds left on your 20 minute time. Peta Cowles. Here. Irie Fishman. Here. Pam Marianski. Here. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Danielle, can you introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so tonight, the city will present a zoning ordinance amendment to establish a new zoning overlay in the Wellington Station Multifamily Overlay District that would allow multifamily housing and mixed-use development as of right, and comply with Section 3A of MGL-40A, MBTA Community Zone 1. I will read the public hearing announcement. The Method Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom. remote video conferencing relative to a proposed amendment to the City of Medford zoning ordinance and zoning map. The purpose of the amendment is to comply with Section 3A of MGL 40A, which is also known as MBTA Community Zoning Law, by establishing a zoning overlay within a half-mile radius of the Wellington MBTA Orange Line Station that would allow multifamily housing and mixed-use development as of right. The public may view and participate in this hearing by assessing the link included on the meeting agenda that will be posted on the City's website. no later than November 10th, 2023. Questions and comments may be submitted via email at ocd-medford-ma.gov. For accommodations or aids, call 781-393-2480. A subsequent public hearing on the same matter will be held by the Medford City Council on December 12th, 2023 at 7 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber. second floor of medford city hall 85 george p has to drive medford mass and via zoom a link to the public hearing will be posted no later than december 8 2023 again for accommodations or aids call 781-393-2425 a copy of the full text of the amendment is available in the office of the city clerk the office of planning development and sustainability and on the city's website Okay, so for, um, the city staff that's present, um, um, Danielle, you want to take the lead on the proposed ordinance?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll stop sharing my screen for the moment. Daniel, thank you. One of the questions I wanted before you went through is, can you explain to the board and to the public exactly why this district was chosen and how it relates to, like for instance, why not West Medford? Why not Medford Square? Why is it at Wellington?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And Alicia, one of the things that I was hoping that can be illustrated here is myself as a planner and knowing more about the law, the MBTA law and how it is, I know, and just speaking with the city that moving it, moving it to another part of it, the city is not feasible with compliance. But if you can paint out what that looks like for the audience, for the public and for the board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So because this is one of the questions that I have, and I think one of the only other questions that I have, And then I'll open it up for the board for clarification. It's the parking minimums. Since we're doing this in a transit oriented development and we have 0.5 at this point, and we can actually really go big and create more density. No parking minimums. Get rid of them. Is that feasible? Is that something that And if I'm not mistaken, Danielle, you've ran the numbers. Can you share with the board what that would mean if we were to get rid of the parking limit?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I guess I'm not sure if I'm alone in this one. And I understand your reservation on it, but we, our car dependency is the reason why we're in trouble with the house insurance now. So I just saw it as an opportunity just to not to be so car dependent, but I can also understand on the other side, because I happen to live in one of those apartment buildings near Homel that you just referenced.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there any other board input on parking minimums or anything else? Are there thoughts on the actual development incentive bonuses that Danielle wanted input on?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, actually, that's a good point. I'm so against car dependency that one of the things that made it a little bit more humbling was I attended a conference where there was someone with a disability who had kept saying, you know, you keep talking about no parking, no parking, but what about my caretakers that come to take care of me? All right, so it's currently at 0.5, Danielle, or?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Where I live, if you have, you can have two spaces per unit. And it's like, I don't know, there's different levels because we have a garage. It's not part, it becomes part of my rent if I take it. If I don't want any, if I want no parking, then it's not part of my rent. And I'm guessing that that's what the idea is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, thank you, Danielle, because one of the things, and it does seem, and we understand where the city's, I understand where the city's situation is, but it's also very, important and pertinent to let the board know that you're expecting to vote by 12-6-23. And if that's the case, then we're going to have to hold another special meeting because who's going to do Thanksgiving?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: While you have that up, Alicia, I think I'm going to open it up for public comment in case the public has any questions. If the board doesn't have any questions at this point. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.org. Individuals may have up to two minutes to provide comments. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and city staff. Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters that the students received?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There was one, and the resident is present this evening. I don't know if you wanted to read his comment or have him read it, or I don't know how that works. William Nabari?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, and congratulations William on your marriage.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Danielle or Alicia, do you want to address either of those questions by Ms. Navarre?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Mr. Matarazzo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Matarazzo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There's one thing I think I should mention, and only because it's a public hearing and Mr. Matarazzo brought it up as far as leveraging private development. I just want to make a public disclaimer that myself being a senior program manager for the MassWorks Infrastructure Program, I am in no way consulting with the city on leveraging state grants administered by the Executive Office of Economic Development. Just wanted to put that out there. And also, Mr. Matarazzo, congratulations to you and the town of Andover. Bye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we have any other public comments? Okay. I'm going to close the public comment section. And I'm going to come back to the board and see if you want to deliberate or just further discuss the drive zoning ordinance amendment. I'm not sure that we're prepared to vote or if even the city is asking for a vote this evening. So there is a couple of things that they want to get ironed out with Emily Enns, which is Emily Keyes Enns, who is the consultant for this. But if there's any other questions that we want to give the city now, or we can email, But I guess we should get this date certain on the board if that's on the table.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The city of Somerville has parking caps. They have parking maximums on their line, on the orange line for Assembly Square. I wonder how, but I guess that's more car dependent over there because it's a huge commercial area. I'm just wondering. Destination. Yeah. But even that, with that, they have parking caps. Yeah, I guess. I'm not so much concerned with the maximum, the parking maximum, but if we can decrease it a little bit somewhere. Then I guess I would be interested in knowing what the benefits are if there are any, but if there's not a significant incremental change, then. I guess just so that the board is able to vote with confidence to supply that information, Danielle, so that board members can just look at it. Okay, so what... And I guess we can decide on the next date, and then between now and... Now and then we can send you other questions via email.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, any questions or suggested edits, as I agree with Peter, any questions or suggested edits should be able to be ironed out prior to, without another meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we need a motion to for a day starting to 12, to continue to 12, 6, 2023? Okay. I'm going to start in alphabetical order here. Sally Akiki? Yes. Sharad Bajraj Sharir?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Mariowski? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't really care, just pick a name. I second the motion. Thank you. Was it? Okay. I know PETA made the motion, right?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. The next item is approval of minutes. Is there a motion to approve the draft minutes from 9.6 and 9.20 collectively? Are there any edits or anything? I motion to approve. Both 960 and 920?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there a second motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. Roll call, Sally Akiki? Yes. Sharad Basracharia?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Kiles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Marianski? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Yes. So the next item, miscellaneous or any other updates that the city wants to provide or the board wants to discuss? Besides looking forward to I-12-6 meeting for the continuation of the zoning amendment. Danielle, is there anything coming down the pipeline that we need to know about?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And there's a possibility that we'll be listening to them all at the same, because they're out at the same time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The long-term blasting over there at Windsor Street?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Felicia, I feel like I know that you use mass planners here and there, but I don't know. I guess I feel loyal to the state that I'm not supposed to be, like, doing all this advertising for the city. But I feel like if you use that, there's tons of people that will see it. And I know that you don't get enough chance, but they're always talking about it amongst themselves. The planners are talking about it across the state when you use that platform, the mass planners platform.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I definitely can, I say it verbally, but I feel like, I don't know if I put it on my LinkedIn, like my friends hire and I don't know, I just, I don't think there's a conflict of interest there, but it's just, it just feels weird.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, that would be huge, only because as an alum, I get those updates all the time. And I can tell you that if I do know of anyone, that's one of the first places I look. Because UEP is really good about doing a blast for alums. Yeah. For current and especially alums.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just being with the city, that's your end.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, it just wouldn't be great only because I keep seeing different communities go by me every day. So every time like, I wonder if Medford's using that because I'm like, Oh, Lexington is looking for something. Oh, Burlington's looking for something. It's like, where's Medford? It's like Medford's not saying anything.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is Ari's favorite part. I'm going to ask for a motion to adjourn. Ari, not to put you out there like that, because I guess it's probably at this point, especially with the long meet, and it's probably everyone, so I don't mean to throw you out there. Sure, I'll present the motion to adjourn. Is there a second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. Sally Akiki? Yes. Okay. Chirag Bajracharya?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Marianski? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Thank you, everyone. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone that celebrates. You on the sixth.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Welcome to tonight's meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some regulatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting in long progress may do so by accessing the link that was included. on the meeting agenda posted on the city of Medford's website. If, despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting tonight, all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at medfordma.org. And you can click on current CD board filings. Daniel will provide the link in the chat. I'm going to do a roll call attendance for the board. Vice-chair Emily Hedeman. Present. Peter Kautz. Ari Fishman. I saw Ari. Present. Awesome. Pam Marianski. Pam. Sally Akiki. Present. Sherrod Bacharia.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jacqueline Person. Let's see, Danielle, can you please introduce anyone from the staff?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So the first item on our agenda this evening after getting into order is a special permit drive-thru use for 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway, Bank of America. It's continued from 10-4-23. The applicant is applying for a special permit for a bank drive-thru ATM at 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway, which is in the Meadowbrook Mall, aka Wegman Plaza, specifically the northerly service parking lot. The special permit grant authority is the city council, and it has been referred to the city board for the board's recommendation on the matter. The matter has been continued several times in order to redesign the site plan to satisfy planning staff and for sign on from other tenants on the shopping plaza. I'm going to invite the applicant to introduce yourselves now, and you can present any updates on the proposal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Danielle, have you provided screen sharing ability to all three of those members?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jackie, you're on mute. Thank you. Sorry. Thank you so much for your presentation. I appreciate it. We appreciate it at this time. We're going to ask if the city staff has any comments that they want to add.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I will open it up to the board and I want to remind the board that there are some conditions that have been set forth, recommended by the city for us to deliberate on as we go through. We can either adopt, amend, disagree, or totally change them as you wish to go through. I'm not sure if you've all had a chance to look at them. But I will open it up for deliberation now from the board. Any board members have questions on the conditions or clarifications? All right, hearing none, I'm going to open it up for public comment, just in case there's public comment. If there's anyone that wants to speak from the public. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature, which places you in the line to be recognized and unmuted by staff. Individuals may have up to two minutes to provide comments. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. You can also provide written comments via email. to ocd-ma.gov. A reminder to all meeting participants to refrain from using the chat function to post or message comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to let myself and staff. Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue and acknowledge any previously sent emails or letters regarding this item?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And while we do that, I'm going to close the public comment.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So what would be the proper way to condition it so that it doesn't provide undue burden onto the proponent if it's something that we can't determine at this juncture now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is the board okay with number five as written after hearing what has been presented by the city? Does anybody have any questions? No questions. Thanks. Thanks chair. Well, I want to just echo what the city has said, and I want to thank the applicant for. just your diligence and remaining the course and getting us to a plan that's approved across the board by all and all the work that you've done and being a minimal to the suggestions and the changes and. It's just really appreciated, especially with the enhancing of the landscape and with the pocket park on the corner and just making sure that you're a good neighbor overall. So I actually, with the conditions as set forth, I'm going to go ahead and ask for, if there's no other questions from the board, I'm going to request the motion to recommend the city council approval of the special permit subject to the conditions outlined in the staff dated memo 10-17-2023, in which Danielle was shown on the screen. I have a motion, Sally. Second. I'll second. All right, I'm going to do a roll call. Vice Chair Emily Hedeman? Yes. Ari Fishman? Ari, your sound's not working. Is that a thumbs up?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thalia Kiki? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. Thank you so much for being here this evening. And you're all set.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Have a good evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The next item on our agenda this evening is A&R for Bradley. Let's see, what is the address for Bradley? 26 Bradley Road. And that's ANR, which is Approval Not Required Plan for Review. At this time, I'm just going to invite the proponent to present their plans for 15 Hadley. Introduce yourself and to present your plans for 15, I'm sorry, 26 Bradley Road.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Thank you so much, Mr. Powell.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Thank you. If you don't have anything further, I'm going to ask comments from the city staff.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And because it's straightforward, technically all we're doing is, as you said, it's a formality where we're certifying that it's an approval not required because in this case, the city can't do that. And it meets all the criteria. So, for me, I don't know if there's any questions from the board, but I can just ask for a motion. Since the city has affirmed that the criteria has been met, I'll ask for a motion to approve. Although there's no approval needed. So I guess we're just making sure that we're all in agreement just by doing a roll call. Is that what it is? A motion to affirm? A motion to certify that there's approval not needed. Okay, so actually, I guess I need a motion first. I'll make a motion to affirm that approval is not needed. Okay, a second. I second. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Yes. Ari Fishman? Sally Akiki? Yes. Sherrod Batracharia?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. Thank you, Mr. Powell.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Our next item is approval of minutes. I'm not sure that everyone, so we have 9-6-23 and then 9-20-23 was added. Did everyone get a chance to read the additions? So I don't know if I can do this collectively. Can we do it in one? Or just say, I'm asking for a motion to approve draft minutes from 9-6 and 9-20 meetings? As long as there's no discussion, right? Yeah, as long as there's no discussion on either. All right, so I will ask for a motion to approve the draft minutes from 9-6-23 and 9-20-23. My motion for approval is 9-6-2-10-18. And what's the next one? The 9-20? What's the date? Yes, 9-20. 9-20. And I'll second. Thank you. Vice Chair Emily Hedeman? Yes. Abby Fishman? Sally Akiki? Yes. Sherrod Batracharian? And myself, Jackie McPherson. Okay. Ms. Salinas, are there any other updates from the city or anyone?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, sounds good to me. Any other updates? Danielle, do you have any idea what's coming down the line for us?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I was hoping, I thought you were getting closer to filling the economic development director.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Duly noted. All right. So I'm going to ask for a motion to adjourn. This is Ari's favorite. Is there a motion? I'll make a motion to adjourn. Okay, second motion. I'll second on the name. Okay, we've been doing it all night. Vice Chair Emily Hedeman? Yes. Ari Fishman? Okay. Sally Akiki? Yes. Sherrod Bacheria?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. Yes. Thank you, everyone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters first. I'm going to read the public hearing notice. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the city of Medford's website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at medfordma.org. You can also, you can click, from there, you can click on current seating board files. Danielle will provide the link in the chat. I'm going to do a roll call, appointments for the board. Vice chair, Emily Hedeman. Present. Peter Cowles.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Present. Pam Marianski. Present. Sally Akiki. Present. Sherrod watch area. And myself, Jackie mcpherson. Danielle, can you introduce any staff on the call, please?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So our first item on the agenda for today is a special permit drive-through use. The 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway, Bank of America. It was continued from 9-20-23. The applicant is applying for a special permit for a bank with drive-thru ATM at 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway, which is the Wagons Plaza. The special permit grant authority is the city council, and it has been referred to the city board for the board's recommendation on the matter. The matter has been continued several times in order to redesign the site plan to satisfy planning staff and for sign off from other tenants of the shopping plaza. An overall project summary is that the existing site currently houses a surface parking lot and is bounded by commercial properties to the north, Leonard Street to the east, Locust Street to the west, and a northern access drive to Meadow Glen to the south. The proposed project will construct an approximate 5,413 square foot bank with one drive-through lane and one drive-through bypass lane. I'm going to now invite the applicant to present any updates to the proposal. Danielle, can you please introduce all members of the applicant?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't think it's a motion to table it to the end of the meet or later in the meet and just to another date certain.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. We're going to go to the next item on our agenda, which is 590 Boston Ave site plan review amendment. The applicant is applying for an amendment to the previously approved site plan, special permit, and variances for the construction of a mixed use building that will contain 45 residential units and approximately 1,464 square feet of retail space with parking at grade located at the property 590 Boston Ave, Medford Mass, 02155. The original project was approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals in July 2021, but the design has been slightly revised. The applicant is invited to present to the board. Danielle, can you please introduce the applicant?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for your presentation. One of the things that I need, I guess, clarity from, I'm not sure if it's from the city or from the applicant. If you can just synthesize the information, you've gone over in detail, but we're trying to see where we're at right now. We know, we understand that we no longer need a parking variance and we, and there was, we, I could see the differences in the design. But I'm trying to better understand where we stand right now in reference to compliance with the department heads comments. And, um, I guess in the variances, if the city can pretty much point that out, I know that this was approved previously in 2020 with lots of conditions, but I'm having a hard time synthesizing all the information as you're presenting. So if someone can just give us a high level, um, overview of exactly what variances that we're looking at right now and how far they are from compliance with the department heads. That would help. Have you had a chance to look at the department head comments?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much for your clarification. I'm going to, Ask the city if you have any comments or if you want to add anything to better help the public and the board. From your point of view. Oh, no, the city at this point. I'm sorry. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Daniel. One of the questions I have for clarification, previously when this was approved, there were conditions that we would recommend with at least six units being affordable? Is that still on the table or has it been taken on?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Go right ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Yes. I'm going to go to the board now and I just want to remind the public at this point or actually inform the public at this point to please remain refrain from using the chat at this time. We're going to do a public comment period soon as we hear from the board. Emily?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. And I think that's pretty much what I was trying to get a high level bullet point of is what we hit and what we haven't just to get it synthesized so that we can know. Um, so I guess as a board, we will decide if we have enough information to continue, or if this is something that we can approve. I, I, I'm not sure that I'm comfortable at this point myself recommending with conditions. Cause I'm not sure what those conditions would be. and what they would not be, unless the city can help us with some language. But even then, we have to satisfy the affordable housing piece of it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Jackie. Yes, I just wanted to inject my two cents into this. I mean, I'm trying to
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter, that was a question posed to the city.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Hedeman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And I have Stelia Kiki.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Attorney Barone. Are you all set, Sally or Kiki?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Attorney Barone. Board Member Sherrod Baracharia. You're on mute, Sherrod.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are there any further questions from the board? Okay, I'm going to open up the public comment period. I see that there was some activity in the chat, but we're unable to use that. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message among Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov. Individuals may have up to two minutes to provide comments. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. Just another reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and city staff. Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just want to make sure Ms. Barry was all set. I know there was another question regarding handicap accessibility that was not included in the DEI's letter. Ms. Barry, are you okay with that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Attorney Broome. You're welcome. Danielle, do you see any other public comments or Ms. Barry, are you all set?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. I'm going to close the public comment period and come back to the board at this time to see if there's any other clarifying questions or if there's anything that you want to ask of the city or the applicant. Any members of the board. Yes, me. I sorry, I can't see. Fishman. Hi, Ari. Sorry. Go right ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think it's a, see where the board is at now for deliberations. Are you all comfortable with moving forward with the recommendation to the ZBA or are we looking to table this? I think some of the, a lot of the questions that I had was the previous conditions for myself and where they stood, but we've already heard from the applicant that they're willing to comply as necessary with all department had comments and then the process of affordability I can be handled with. So I'm confident in handling that with the city, but I want to know what other board members are feeling at this time. Go ahead, Peter. I'm sorry, Mr. Quinn, I think, are you sharing your screen? If you could stop sharing. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so because we're making advisory recommendations, I guess at this point, I wanna be clear, Danielle, we are going with the previous conditions as well as a couple of new conditions, correct? If the city wants to help us get this language proper so that someone can even Peter, are you able to capture conditions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then that the proponent at this point, number three may be mute because the proponents should work with the city engineer to provide the additional information. At this point, it's working with the city engineer as well as the fire chief. But I thought that was all encompassing with number four, which is compliance with recommendations. to the satisfaction of each department. So I want to make sure that we're fleshing out everything. Because if we're going to discuss each department head, it should be all inclusive, unless.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. And so, and that, and so instead of piecing, parsing that out to be its own item, it should be, um, all inclusive and number four for all department heads.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And so as far as Gordon, that just, that also covers inclusionary housing at this point. Um, that was called out separately originally, but it should just be compliant with the city as necessary because it's mandatory and not necessarily a condition.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So yeah, so we're looking for a motion to recommend that the Board of Appeals approves the special permit for the site plan review for 590 Boston Ave with the following conditions. Go Peter.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And if the city does not have anything to add on that language, we can go ahead and who wants to do the first motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, that's the one key word I left out was amendment. I originally said to recommend that the Board of Appeals approves. So we're recommending that the Board of Appeals approves the amended special permit. Is that what it is?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I second, Sally. Vice Chair Emily Hedeman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Ari froze up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Pam Marianski? Yes. Sally Akiki? Yes. Sharad Bharacharya?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. So that carries. 6, 6, 1, the motion carries.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Plan development district 1 and 3 to 21 point court. This is a public hearing, and I will read accordingly. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on October 4th, 2023 at 6.30 PM via Zoom, remote video conferencing, relative to paper number 23-407, a petition by the Medford Housing Authority to amend zoning map, City of Medford maps dated April 13th, 1965, as referenced in the Medford zoning ordinance, chapter 94-2.2. The amendment proposes to change the zoning district designation of the property one and the three to 20 Walkland Court as depicted on sheets one to six of the plans entitled ALTA slash NSPS land title survey prepared by Fuston O'Neill and dated February 6, 2022 from apartment one zoning district to plan development district, which would have new development standards per Medford zoning ordinance chapter 94-9.2.3. Danielle, do you want me to take it from here? Do you want me to keep going or do you want me to give an overview? Whatever pleases the board. I will say, just of note, a subsequent public hearing on the same matter will be held on the Medford City Council on November 14th, 2023 at 7 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall. 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Mesquite Mass, and via Zoom. A link to the public hearing will be posted no later than November 10th, 2023. Okay, Danielle, I apologize. Do you wanna give a background on the PV or I can avoid adding the process?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Danielle. So we have attorney Jonathan Silverstein of BBHS Law, retained by the city of Medford and is available as support and counsel for the board. He will assist the board in making any revisions to the amendment. Board members should feel free to ask questions. We now ask the applicant for Walkman Court to introduce themselves and present their proposal, mainly highlighting and pointing out the differences of what that will include of what's allowed there. um, what's there now and what will be allowed there for the PDD. Danielle, do you want to introduce, um, the applicant?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, if you have a presentation, you can introduce yourself as you go along. We will do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to just remind, as you go through, and I apologize for the interjection, is when you get to acronyms, if you can please just help the public and spell out any acronyms that may be used.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, when I conclude your presentation, I'm going to open it up to the city staff to add anything. Any questions from the city staff.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. In that case, are there any questions clarifying questions from the board?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, please go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, actually, um, uh, Shirab for that question. Um, and that, and that second part, I think that that would be more related in site plan. And, and one of the things I want to remind the board of tonight is that the discussion is limited to amendment questions surrounding language in recommending, um, the zoning ordinance back to the city council. However, um, um, I'm going to defer to Attorney Silverstein. I just think I saw your hand up if you want to add something there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much attorney, so staying again, just to recap approval of the zoning doesn't necessarily approve the project. We still have to do our due diligence with the site plan review. So we will save that for then. Are you all set? Or do you have any other questions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Are there any other questions from the board? Not at this time. Thank you, chair. So, I am going to open it up for public comment. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.gov. Individuals may have up to two minutes to provide comments. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. Please do not use the staff to provide comments as it is not a part of the public record and just so that the public understands. That's why the chat feature has been disabled so that we can capture all of your comments for public record. The first hand that I saw, well, Danielle is going to manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails and letters. But I do know that Ms. Roberta Cameron was the very first person to put her hand up. And I'll let Danielle take it from there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Cal, please go ahead. Danielle, can you unmute Cal?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I actually was going to just refer to the actual application as read last as was noted last previous meeting on where the findings were and what is being done for environmental site assessment. And at this time, if you can also just I'm going to refrain from the parking and anything else that does not deal directly with the amendment and outside of the. The actual zoning itself, but if you can just tell us a little bit more at this point. Just to reiterate what has been done. As far as environmental, not so much mediation as of yet, but what has been done as far as environmental impacts on the site. Assuming that it's not in the actual that no one has can grab it right now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much. I'm actually going to, at this time, if there's no other comments that need to be read or there's no other hands up, I'm going to close the public comment period. And at this time I will defer back to the city and just, if the city can highlight for us in a high level vote point and give us some information, give the board and the public some information about how these goals align with the city's goals, how this project aligns with the city's goals. or I can actually, Danielle, did you want me to read those out or did you wanna touch base on them to give the public a better idea?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Danielle. One of the things that I wanted to flesh out without going into full detail is the 40B statute. I'm not sure that the public is fully aware of what 40B and how it affects SHI, which is the state subsidized housing inventory. There's a certain percentage that every community within the state of Massachusetts has to hit. And if there's not a low to moderate income housing that's met within a community, then that community is subjected to a 40B, which is MGL chapter 40B, which is a comprehensive permit law. And that's what Danielle was referring to, where a developer can come in and take your prime space and it doesn't have to follow regulations. So this is a better way of controlling your housing when you have a housing production goals. And the city can actually speak more on that, but I did want to flesh out some of the acronyms that we were using to discuss the housing goals. Are there any other questions from the board at this time?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I agree, Vice Chair Hedeman. As I said, it's not that we were neglecting your comments, but they're more specific to the site itself. And this is, we're trying to get the zoning done so that we can get the project to move forward. If the project moves forward, once the zoning is approved, then we can do our due diligence and making sure that it conforms to all city ordinances within. So in saying that, if there's no other, questions from the board. Again, I feel very confident that Attorney Silverstein as well as M. H. A. And the city staff has already done their, uh, their iterative processes of going back and forth. So I will ask for a motion to recommend, uh, the motion to recommend to City Council of the approval of the draft PDV three walk on court plan development district. I'll make the motion. The second motion. I second, Sammy. Roll call, Vice Chair Emily Hedeman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thumbs up? Okay, I can't see. Thank you. Peer Marianski? Yes. Sally Akiki? Yes. Sherrod Barachara?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Abstain. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm a yes. Peter Cowles is a no.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is an abstention. Yeah, two abstentions. One, I guess, recused in the same as abstention. So we have, what, five to... It's five. It carries.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Five carries. Motion carries. Thank you so much, Attorney Kelson and all others representing MHA. I appreciate you being here this evening. Thank you for your time. Much appreciated. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I'm just going to circle back and see if any proponents of 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway for BOA has arrived.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And to clarify, that's a motion for the special permit drive-thru use at 3850 Mississippi Valley Parkway, Bank of America, continue to 1018-23 without prejudice. Thank you, Chair. I'll second that. Vice Chair Emily Peterman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Pam Arianski? Yes. Talia Kiki? Yes. Gerard Baturia?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. The next item is approval of minutes. Do I have a motion to approve the minutes from eight? I believe it's eight. Let's see. I will send them. Thank you second. I'm a second the motion. Yeah, 816 just for the record vice chair and we had him in. Yes, Peter cows. Yes, Ari Fishman. Thumbs up. Okay. Oh, I see them. Pam Marionski? Yes. Sally Akiki? Yes. Chirag Bacharya?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. The final item before adjournment is miscellaneous updates. Does the city staff have any updates?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, thank you. All right, so before anyone else slips anything in, so we'll go right to adjournment. Do I have a motion for adjournment? I'll make the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Aye. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Thumbs up. And I'm sorry, I, Sally Akiki? Yes. Pam, I apologize, did I call you? Pam Malianski? Nope, I vote yes. Okay. Chirag Bhattacharya? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. Thank you, everyone. Have a great night. Thanks, everyone. Thanks very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the Medford Community Development Board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some obligatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Medford Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Medford's website. If, despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the City's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the Board will be made by roll call. Please also know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at mefferdma.org, and you can click under current seating board filings. Danielle will provide a link in the chat. I'm going to do a roll call vote for the board. Let's see, Vice Chair Emily Hedeman is not in attendance. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Present. Anne Marianski. Present. Sherrod Baracharia. Present. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Danielle, can you introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. The first item on the list for the agenda today is special permit for drive-thru use, 3850 Mississippi Valley Parkway, which is Bank of America. It's being continued from 9-6-23, and the applicant is actually requesting a continuance to the next CDB board meeting on October 4th in order to give them more time to work out approvals with the other tenants and shop improviser. If I can please have a motion to continue Bank of America's item to October 4th. A second motion. Second. I will do a roll call vote. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Mariansky? Yes. Shirad Bharacharya? Yes. Myself, Jackie Gray-Pherson, I'm a yes. Our next item on the agenda for tonight is the planned development district for 243 Mystic Avenue, Vernon Bile. I will read the public hearing notice. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on actually from I apologize, I said it wrong. We will conduct a public hearing on September 20th, 2023, after 6.30 via Zoom remote video conferencing, relative to a petition by 243 Mystic Ave LLC at 45 West 3rd Street, Boston, Mass, 021127, to amend zoning map, City of Medford, Mass, dated April 13, 1965, as referenced in Medford zoning ordinance. Chapter 94-2.2. The amendment proposes to change the zoning district designation of the property 243 Mystic Avenue as depicted on the plan entitled Site Layout Plan dated June 15, 2023 to Commercial 2, which is a C2 zoning district to a planned development district, which is a PDD, which would have a new development standards per Medford zoning ordinance Chapter 94-9.2.3. Attorney Gareth Bozeman, of Pierce Atwood has been retained by the city of Medford and is available as support and counsel for the board. He will assist the board in answering any questions or make a revision to the amendment. Board members should feel free to ask questions. First up, are there any comments from the city staff to add? Danielle?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you so much, Danielle. I'm actually going to have the representative from Greater Bayou introduce yourself. And please, you can begin to present.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kadisha Hindi, co-principal at Vernon Bio.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much. I appreciate it. Are there any members of the board that were not participating previously that would have questions for the proponent? Because at this point, if you were absent on the first hearing, you are now able to participate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for asking, Attorney Gordon. At this time, I think if you can give us a high-level overview of what the actual amendments are, since there's no changes from, but at the same time, because one of our board members was not present, I'm guessing he may want to see a little bit more of the proposal that's so that he can, at that point, know. Peter, if I'm not correct, if I'm correct, are you looking for the proponent to do an actual overview? Or do you just want to do a high level?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Then in that case, Attorney Wiseman, because it's being immediately referred back from the city council and to me, um, standing alone and saying this, I think it's just more of an administrative process of it coming back to the board to be represented. If you could just give us the high level, um, details, I think that would suffice.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, attorney.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are there any other questions from board members? So yes, I do have one for, um, attorney Rosemond and that's just, it sounds like at this point, um, unless I'm missing something, it's already gone through an inner, an inner process back, um, with yourself and, um, attorney Heffernan, um, with comments from city staff. So I, I don't have any other questions. I want to know if there was any concerns from the city or from yourself at this, at this juncture.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I appreciate your full detail.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If there's no other questions from the board, I will open up for public comment period. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Danielle in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. Danielle, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Then I will close the public comment period and bring it back to the board. Do you have any, does anyone have any final concerns or questions to be clarified?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. Then at this point, I will look for a motion to recommend the PDE for 282.43 for the planned development district for the zoning amendment to the city council for recommendation of adoption for review and possible adoption. I so move.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I will do a roll call. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Mariansky? Yes. Sharad Baracharia?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm a yes. Thank you so much to all that are representing the Vernon Bio from CI Boston Design, Tony Heffernan, and everyone else that has come tonight. We look forward to seeing you in the future.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And thank you, attorney with me. Thank you. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good night. Okay. The next item on our agenda tonight is approval of minutes. Before we move to approve the minutes, I do have one quick thing and that's just the consistency of, um, I guess my title within some places it says chair, some places it says vice chair. But other than that, I don't see a problem with them. And these are the minutes from August 2nd, 2023.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, sorry. And that's, and that's literally what I was, um, I didn't know if anyone else had any changes or anything like that, but if, if no further changes or concerns, uh, I will. A motion to approve the minutes from August 2nd, 2023. So moved. And a second. Second. Roll call. Peter Cowles? Yes. Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Marianski? Yes. Sharad Bharacharya?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Myself, Jackie McPherson. Yes. Our next item would be, sorry, it's just miscellaneous items if the city has anything. or any other updates or anything for us at this point? There was one that I wanted to just call myself, if you don't mind. And that's just recognizing the Roberts Rules of Order. And that's that all of us have anyone can put have the ability to discuss within a meeting, obviously, and present a motion, but they must be recognized through the chair. So going forward, I just want to make sure that as we proceed with these meetings, that any discussions or motions put on a table are actually through the chair. And I'm just stating that for public record. And if there's anything else from the city or Our next meeting is October 4th. That's correct, Daniel?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't know if the board can vote on that, but I am highly interested in that debate. That night, and I know that it's recorded, but I've been anticipating it for a while. So I don't know. I don't know that others would participate that night if we would have full participation of items.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I mean, I would definitely be available for me and don't get me wrong. It's just I was going back to if Whoever's presenting materials for the meeting that night, if they're interested in continuing, I'd be OK with that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, because I wanted to be there. Yeah. And then I think about it, I don't, I personally, and this is for the board's review, wouldn't want to see all of those items pushed on to the next meeting, and then we're there all night either. So, I don't know, whatever you decide, whatever is decided, if you can let us know, I guess.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I do have a question on that since we have a full quorum and that's not so much discussing the item itself, but I'm just, I'm curious as to how the city's rectifying their situation with, um, or if the city is even involved with the tenant versus landlord parking issue. I don't know. Is that going to continuously be a thing or are you asking for some proof to move forward?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: At this point, they're not agreeing, but there's a possibility that they can agree on something that's still not in compliance with city zone for the parking lot.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's what I meant. Not so much zoning, but for the parking lot itself and how many parking spaces are supposed to be there and so forth, is what I meant.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just smiling, because when it comes to MBTA communities, and I'm sure this is not a conflict, but I always literally I have Chris Clutchman at my disposal, like, can you can you explain this to me? And so now that it's met for it, it's like, I don't have that to explain it to me, because I can't reach out for it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: she's my old boss. She just got she's like moving on up over and what is the executive office of communities and livable cities? H? The old DHT? Yeah. Yeah, she's now she took over for her former boss, which I don't really know what that title is. But she's like heading up that department now. So which is cool. Anyways, alright, so I don't want to drone on about things. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, as a board, we will review it for the highest and best use for Medford. I'm sure we will, right? All of us. We'll see what's what.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's what we're here for.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I wasn't trying to shut it down myself. I don't want to I could. Me as it wasn't board member, I wouldn't want to not have the meet and just because. I can, I can always view the debate later, which would be a bummer. However. especially if there's pressing items on the agenda or so many items that they would spill over to the following meeting and we would be there all night.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And Walkland Court, that will be their third time coming before us? Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, that's a, well, I know that's not at your level, but I was talking to Danielle about that the other day. That's one of those, I just, I don't get the second meat and it just feels like it should be, it's an administrative process that feels like it should just be handled with the city solicitor or the city clerk and not coming back to city. But who am I to talk?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So it's a public hearing, but I'm still, and this is not to hash out here, I'm just so confused on the legal process of it coming before us for the initial recommendation. They refer it back to city council. Because city council can't do it for, like, whatever, a certain amount of days, it comes back to us. I feel like that is where it can be clinked up at or coordinated, but I could be wrong. Maybe I'll read Lynn's handbook to try to figure it out. I'm not a lawyer. It just sounds like there's something disconnected in the process that... wouldn't matter legally as long as we're following the proper administrative process. But again, I don't, I'm not strong in that. I'm still trying to figure it out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So since we are the ones, right. Okay. I think it's, yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. All right, well, thank you. I won't belabor that. Alicia, thank you so much for letting us know about things to come going forward and not to hold us up anymore. I don't know if there's any other updates that anyone wants to provide, but I will ask for a motion for adjournment, if not. Motion. A second. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Yeah. Pam Ariansky? Yes. Sherrod Baracharia?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. Thank you, everyone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Amanda. Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of the community development board. I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some procedural matters. First, I want to read that this hearing of the Metro Community Development Board has been conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to our listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Medford website. If, despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the City's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the Board will be made by roll call. Please also know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at meffertma.org. And you can click on seating board filings. Amanda will provide a link in the chat. I'm going to do a roll call vote for attendance. Vice chair, Emily Hedeman. Present. Peter Cowles.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Present. Pam Mariansky.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sharad Bajracharya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. Amanda, can you please introduce any city staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Amanda. So the first item on our agenda tonight is a special permit for the drive-thru use at 3850 Misty Valley Parkway. which is Bank of America. It's been, it's been continued from August 16th, uh, 23. Just to give an overview, the applicant is applying for a special permit for a drive-thru ATM at 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway, which is in the Wiggins Plaza. The special permit grant in authority is the city council, and it has been referred to the seating board for the board's recommendations on the matter. The applicant is advised to present to the board. An overall summary actually is that the existing site currently houses a surface parking lot and is bounded by commercial properties to the north, Linden Street to the east, Locust Street to the west, and a northern access drive to Meadow Glen to the south. The proposed project will construct an approximately 5,413 square foot bank with one drive-thru lane and one drive-thru bypass lane. Amanda, can you introduce all members in representation of Bank of America? Absolutely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Lucas. I appreciate it. Before I get into questions and open up the questions, I want to see if the city wanted to address, I know that there was some comments from the department heads that you had referenced, and I didn't know if there were anyone from the fire department or from the DPW engineering for the city that would be on, or if the PDS staff is willing to give us a background on some of the concerns that were highlighted before. Danielle or Alicia?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So for me, anyways, there were some significant changes to the actual proposal, but at the same time, there were substantive concerns and comments from the fire chief, as well as DPW engineering and PDS staff that I think for my own standing on the board, I would need to further hash out before I could even provide a recommendation to move forward, or even a ruling at this point. I don't know how the city would want me to handle that. And I don't know how the other board members feel about that. I just, without, in the absence of knowing if things have been satisfied with the department heads, I wouldn't know how to move forward. Not even with conditions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I do have that, but I don't have. And that's I guess that's what I'm trying to figure out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If you don't mind, I'm going to open it up to the board if there's any clarifying questions from the board. So that's not just my voice on this. Do any board members have any clarifying questions? Concerns or comments?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, yes, please go right ahead. Miss Benefield.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for adding that. That was 1 of the questions that I was actually going to raise to the PDF staff is because within the response to the PDFs, there was questions about parking and I saw there the response from the model. landlord stating that it must meet the parking requirements for various lease on site. Not only that, lease restrictions and parking changes will have to be the approval of all tenants. So I was kind of trying to figure out how that was addressed. And Danielle, if you can please go ahead. I see you have your hand up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The clerk can call the vote, which is Peter, but I can
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But I would still, I believe you'd have to do the whole call attendance because you probably don't have that readily available.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't have that in front of me. Okay. Sorry. It's here. Vice-chair Emily Hedeman? Aye. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Mariansky. Chirag Bachariya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. We will discuss the special commit drive through use of 3815 Mystic Valley Parkway. The proponent of Bank of America will be continuing to 9-2023. Thank you guys. Thank you. Thank you. Our next item on the list is a plan development unit at 1 to 20 Waltham Court. Let me read the public hearing. The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on September 6, 2023 at the 6.30 p.m. via Zoom video conferencing relative to a petition by the Medford Housing Authority to amend the zoning map, City of Medford map dated April 13, 1965 as referenced in Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94 dash 2.2. The amendment proposes to change the zoning district designation of the property one to 20 Waukland Court as depicted on sheets one to six of the plans entitled ALTA slash NSPS land title survey prepared by Fuston O'Neill and dated February 6, 2022 from apartment one zoning district to a planned development district PDD, which would have new development standards per Metro zoning ordinance chapters 94, dash 9.2.3. The full materials for the amendment can be viewed in the office of planning and office, office of planning, development and sustainability on the, on the, on the, on their website under current CD board files. So Amanda, would you please introduce anyone that's here for Method Housing Authority?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Attorney Kilson, for your detailed coverage of the amendment. And thank you, Ms. Jansen, for your presentation. My, the one question I have before I open it up to the board is I do have the final amendment myself, but I'm not sure if it was, I'm not sure how, what the actual differences was. And I guess this is my question to attorney Silverstein, that everything that was addressed within the questions that you originally had in previous drafts, if they were rectified and made whole. for us in the final part.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Attorney Silverstein. I appreciate it. I want to remind the board and the public before we move forward, again, that as Attorney Silverstein has already noticed, we were given a high-level conceptual presentation by Medford Housing Authority and their team. Although we're focusing only on zoning, like the uses and the dimensions for this first meeting, although the vision informs the zoning, we're going to save all the rest for the site plan review at a later date. And because it's dimensional and zoning and all bound in law, for my purposes, I do not have any more questions that attorney Silverstein has not already answered. So at this time, I'm going to open it up to the board for any questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Exactly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry to interrupt.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, that was definitely important. Thank you, Amanda. Are there any further comments from the board or questions? Are there any questions or comments from the city staff? Okay, I'm going to open it up for hearing none from the board or from the city staff. I'm going to open it up for public comment. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message. Roberta is- I think Roberta and Dennis. They're part of the public in this regard. To start again, those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Amanda in the comments. You can also send an email to ocd at medford-ma.gov. Individuals may have up to three minutes to provide comments. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. Please do not use the chat feature to provide comments as it is not a part of the public record. Amanda, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Ms. Campbell.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think the most efficient way is in case an actual member of the public has to jump the meeting before we get to the end, maybe we can address individually. And especially in case the same question comes up again, we have it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I believe so. No, I think you should probably I think we should probably address them individually in case the person that the member of the public that asked the question has to jump before the end of the meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Ms. Jensen. Actually, I'm going to come back to this and I just realized to make sure that we are staying on task and we're answering and that the proponent feels comfortable answering the questions that's related to zoning and the questions that you actually feel are relevant to the case, not that all of the public comments are not relevant. Amanda, how about we do take a tally of the questions as we go through and then decide which ones are relevant to tonight's public hearing and have the proponent answer the ones that they're able to at the end. to keep it more efficient.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And for clarification, not that we're answering this question now, I just want the city to take note in response to environmental metric. This site is not an environmental justice site. I just wanted to make that clear.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mm-hmm.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Amanda. At this time, I'm going to ask if the board has any other questions. I'm going to actually first before the board, I'll close the public comment period. and then ask the board if there's any other questions that you have.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, and I apologize. We originally said that we were gonna answer them case by case, but Amanda has helped me to collect them. And Amanda, have you collected the ones that were relevant to tonight's public hearing?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Moran, for clarification, when you said it would trigger something higher, can you be more specific for the public? Were you speaking about the MEPA office or anything dealing with the EEA in Massachusetts? I just wanted the public to understand how detailed of an environmental assessment you have. done and what that entails.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I appreciate that question, that clarification, especially where I wanted the public going back to Ms. Diane McKinney's reference to environmental justice area that MEPA actually has dedication. They have dedicated resources for projects that are near environmental justice populations, which I have clarified. In my error earlier, not realizing that this area was an environmental justice area, it's Block Group 1, Census Tract 3394, as you stated. And it's one of the criterias that the state uses for being environmental justice is that it's hugely minority. I just wanted to put that on the record for the public information. Sorry, Amanda, if you can continue.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There's no other public comments at this time. Actually, I see one from an Anne.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, awesome. All right, I will open it up. I will close the public comment. I will open it up for board members, and now I see Ari's hand.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Morissette. And for Ari, as well as members of the public, this adverse report that Mr. Morissette is referring to was prepared by Urban Forestry Solutions Incorporated, and it was provided as exhibit F in the board materials and public materials for the project, if you want to go into further detail. Are there any other questions from the board?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If there are no other questions, I just wanted to thank Martha Helsing for your extensive detailed presentation as well as all of your consultant team. And because tonight's discussion is limited to many questions about language, et cetera, I'm going to just trust that attorney's own team with his extensive background in land use litigation and so forth in getting this amendment out. has already helped you to get to that so natural, faster, or the best path permanently going forward. So to get you started, I'm going to ask the board for a motion to recommend the drafted PDD rezoning ordinance for one and in three to 20 walk-in court to the city council. I'll make the motion. Do I hear a second? Second. Vice Chair Emily Hedeman. Aye. Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Marianski. Aye. Chad Baracharia.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. Aye. Thank you so much and we look forward to doing our due diligence later after the revisions for the site plan review.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So our next item on the agenda is site plan review for 421 and 423 High Street. And I will read the public comment. The Metro Community Development Board shall conduct a meeting on September 6, 2023 after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom. Remote video conferencing relative to an application for site plan review submitted by RJM Development LLC. 37 West Street, Medford Mass, 02155, regarding construction of a nine-unit residential structure with approximately 1,000 square feet of commercial space located in both commercial one and single family one zoning districts at 421 to 423 High Street, Medford Mass, 02155, otherwise known as parcel number L-04-7879.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Attorney Desmond. There's one point of clarification. The right of way, if I'm not mistaken, on the presentation said it was 10 feet. However, if you're going to reduce it to one way, the requirements for the city is 12 feet for one way.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I have a few other questions in regards to day use and what your relief was, but I think probably this is where I'll just leave it for the comments from city staff, especially, specifically Danielle Evans, if she can speak more directly on. She'll probably be able to clarify for me.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My biggest question was on vehicle conflict, and I think it's pretty much been hashed out, but I'm still not sure that the city is satisfied with the response as far as. as it's been presented.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Ms. Desmond.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Are there any other questions from the city staff? How about clarifying questions from the board?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Danielle, did you have a question?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to, Amanda, are you capturing the conditions? And I'm just wondering how these conditions will align with the traffic comments that have already been submitted. Are we looking to add or just focusing on a few of them? And that's more of a question for the board. And Dr. Hunt, is that your way of actually mitigating for the vehicle conflict and you'll be okay with that? Okay. Yes. If there's no further questions from the board at this time, I'm going to open it up for public comment. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message landed in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at method-ma.gov. Individuals have up to three minutes to provide comment. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all the meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. Amanda, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent in emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm going to close the public comment period at this point. And just return back to the board. To discuss potential conditions for approval. If we're going to give approval to move forward. If you have any clarifying questions. And again, my only clarifying question moving forward is. At this point, I think the site plan, I would myself recommend the site plan for. For approval, considering everything has been adhered to as part of the department heads. Comment and anything that the city staff has added this evening. If there's no additional questions. And if you agree, then I would. elicit a motion that says such, but with Amanda reading out the additional conditions for us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think they're already being addressed, but just to cover it, I wanted to just condition that I didn't want to let it go without making note to the comments and without the actual representative, the department heads here themselves, just to make sure that they're touching base and compliant.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And this is a heavy TOD area, correct, as presented?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, my, I know it's not a thing much with the advent of Uber and other personal, and other taxi services, but like, I know when, um, Tenants say that they're not going to have parking, then they'll get like a rental or a zip car or something like that. And then you still create an on-street. So I'm good with keeping 18 in.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so going back to that, will there be a sign parking?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is only relevant if there was an incentive to not have parking as
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, so to recap, we are striking Peter, can you help me? We're getting rid of one.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And which one, I'm sorry, what number on fire? Okay. If we can sort of wordsmith this to get a motion to recommend with the removal of comments. Do we even have to, do we have to explicitly name out the comments that were taken out, striking? If I may? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If you can give it a shot, Amanda.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second. Okay, roll call vote. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Aye. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Marioski. Aye. Sherrod Baracharia.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I am an aye. Your site plan has been approved. Thank you so much for your time. Would you like to say something, Rick?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good night. Good night. So the next item is approval of minutes. Um, a motion to approve the minutes from June 21st, 23. Is there a second? Emily wasn't here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam second. Okay. I think Emily, you can still, if I'm not mistaken, you can vote to accept the minutes as is. So we've established that with city staff, correct? Okay. Even though you weren't here for the meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice-chair Emily Hedeman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowles. Aye. Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Mariansky. Aye. Sharad Bharacharya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm an aye as well. Hey, there's miscellaneous. I have another update before we go to miscellaneous another update. Very happy birthday to Alicia.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Did the city have any other updates or miscellaneous that you wanted to give us?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I have a quick one and I promise this is really quick and it helps us with the organization of the meetings. I wanted the board to, for us to start thinking about rules and regulations for how we on how the board actually operates. And something I spoke to Danielle about is, like, I don't know if there's a way that we can legally impose, like, deadlines for proponents to send things in. If they send it in on a Friday after certain hours and then the city doesn't have a chance to get to it or it gets to us later. It's just something legally that we're able to do to help us with, to help the city with their lift and then to help us to have a little bit more time
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And again, I don't know the legalities behind if we can even talk about it because it's not really an item on agenda, but it's an item for ourselves as administrative. So I think we can talk about it in email. Is that correct? No, because it's going to be part of the board's actions. So we can't talk about it. I don't know, just not for tonight, but just to put it in your head. What can we do to help ourselves?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. Even the close of Business Friday, is that pushing it for you guys?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, go ahead. No, I was about to ask for a motion to close, so you go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. A motion to close the meeting for tonight?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm asking, I can't actually give the motion, so I need one motion and then a second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Hederman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ida Cowles.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Aye. Pam Mariansky. Aye. Sherrod Guaracharia. Aye. And myself, Jackie McPherson. See, I'm saying my own last name and my husband's in the back like it's McPherson, so I'm also an aye. Have a great night.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening and welcome to tonight's meeting of metric community development board. I'll be calling the meeting to order. Let's begin with some of the procedural matters. The hearing of the metric community development board is being conducted via remote means no in person attendance of members of the public will be permitted. but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in chapter 2 of the acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by assessing link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the CF Medford website. If, despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real-time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting, tonight all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at medfordma.org and by clicking on current city board filings. Amanda will provide the link in the chat. Roll call attendance.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Present. Pam Mariansky? Present. Sally Akiki? Present. Sherrod Bajbachara?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. And we wanted to welcome my newest member to the board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We're excited to have you Amanda. Can you please introduce any staff on the phone?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Amanda. The 1st item on our list tonight is a site plan review for 285 to 295, middle 6. known as H. mark is being continued from 8 to 23. As a reminder, this project is a retenting of an existing structure, which was previously a gym at Townline Plaza, and it was a grocery store. While all the board members can discuss the project, only myself, Ari, Emily, and Peter are eligible to vote on this item. I now invite the applicant to present their revised site plan and outline any changes that you'd like to highlight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much for your presentation. I can definitely appreciate. You discussing and bring in some of the board and staff's concerns. We got a pedestrian and vehicle. Connected pedestrian connectivity and vehicle circulation, so thank you for that. But before we deliberate with the board, I'm going to actually open it up to. The public. I'm going to well, actually, I will ask the city staff if there's any questions there, if there's any comments from the staff.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And as far as. You had mentioned that you were going to add. Native plants, such as shrubs, can you go into detail a little bit more outside of the new shade trees that. that you planned on adding? I didn't I didn't catch anything outside of shrubs.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, prior to the final selection, you would need to coordinate it with the city staff. I'm sorry, Danielle, did you want to highlight anything else?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And then there was parking demand to reduce the cruising for parking. Are you able to mandate that the employees park in the rear as suggested previously?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And so they're popular, you'll still leave it open of like. Wayfinding signs for the actual customers to realize that there's parking back there too.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Also, thank you very much for answering that. There was a question whether or not that there was an existing connection to the state's MWRA connection. Do you anticipate there being any problem with that process if it's not?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Excellent. Thank you. Are there any other questions from city staff or from the board at this point? I'll open it up to the board if none from the city.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I actually have a final question. I wasn't sure if there was going to be a food court of some sort that was proposed inside of the store.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So can you just reiterate your trash and litter mitigation for the site, especially for this having a food court?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for answering.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If there are no other comments from the board, I will now open it up to the public. I skipped ahead a little bit earlier. And I'll open up the public comment period. by stating that those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Amanda in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. A reminder to all meeting participants to please refrain from using the chat function to provide Comments is, it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert myself and staff. Amanda, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Amanda. Okay, so I'm going to close the public comment period and we're going to go back to board deliberation. So there has been This is where we decide whether or not we are going to approve, deny, or approve with conditions. I want to test the board and just see where you wanted to start off with any conditions. I can name a few that I know that we will need to go over, but does anyone have anything to add or any questions that they want to cover at this time? So any clarifying questions that they want from Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, let's let's discuss some conditions and see if we can actually get this going so that we can possibly get to an approval. If that's okay with the board to see if we can. pretty much deliberate on that for one. Um, there was some new, uh, in addition to the shade trees that the proponent has showed us, there was a discussion of some native plantings to make sure that, um, the parking lot would be, um, that the heat island effect would be reduced off the parking lot, um, within previous materials. And the proponent has already said that they will be working with, um, city staff, uh, to determine final selection of that. That would be a condition I would impose.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, yes. I so I apologize. Usually Amanda acting in the realm of clerk. As of right now, Amanda, I just want to clarify that you are going along with our are you recording our conditions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes and so to clarify on my end, I'm reading what the PDS staff has provided us with and I want to see how the board feels about these conditions and if you want to adopt them to go forward for approval. And the first one would be in addition to the new shade trees, we're talking about native planning such as the flowering shrubs that Ms. Weatherby has already discussed. If the board is OK with that approval. Yeah, but with that conditions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'll just go through. And as discussed, in order to meet customer parking demand and reduce cruising for the parking behavior, which creates congestion and reduces pedestrian safety, employees and staff will be required to park in the rear parking lot, as well as wayfinding signs be provided to make customers aware of the availability of the rear parking.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And, of course, the proposal will comply with the requirements of the fire chief's memo dated 6 to. During the original 6 to 2023 from the department. Yes, and we also confirmed that the drive aisles all meet the requirements too. And in accordance with the city engineering comments and their memo dated 6-2-2023, the heaved and cracked panels of the sidewalk along Meadow Avenue must be replaced in conformance with city standards.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And this is for public purposes. I'll read out. In accordance with the city engineering comments in their memo dated 6-2-2023, driveway apron must be reconstructed to ensure conformance with MAAB regulations, particularly in regard to cross slopes, widths, and accessible paths. The accessible walkway, which is a sidewalk, should cross the apron via Portland cement concrete panels. And then the final one that we had was just to ensure that trash and litigation for the site. Especially with there being a full court, and you said you would work with the board of health on that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, you'll just work with the board of health on appropriate trash and mitigation for those items. Does the support have any other. For 1, do we accept all these conditions as is, or does the board have anything to add. Or subtract if none.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, and that would be part of one of the conditions. Or actually two, so that's all encompassing. So the site I am So, a roll call for acceptance of the site plan site plan approval with conditions as stated. I'll do a roll call vice chair Emily. Hi. Peter cows.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi. Fishman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, that's right. And I actually said that at the beginning, and I'm so used to doing roll call. I apologize. We're going to go back. New board members are not eligible because you were not part of the board at the time that the public hearing was opened. So we are going to go back and start over.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You count those votes?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then we'll call because it's remote. So just for clarity, I will go back vice chair Emily Hederman. I Peter cows.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson, say aye. Your site plan has been approved with the conditions as stated. Ms. Wetherby, thank you so much for your presentation and for your time here. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We're excited to have you. Well, to have H-Mart. Thank you. Have a great night, everyone. You too, bye-bye. Okay, so the next item on the list tonight is special permit for 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway, which is Bank of America. It was continued from 7-19-23. The applicant is in the processes of revising the plan documents for the board's review and has requested a continuance. I'd like to entertain a motion to continue this item to the next board meeting, which is a date certain on 9-6-23. A 2nd 2nd. Roll call vice chair and we had a man. I Peter cows. I. Are you fishermen. I. Pam Mary asking I. Sally, a key key. I sure I watched her. And myself, Jackie mcpherson's I. So it's been moved to 9623. And our next item on the list is petition referred from city council for zoning ordinance amendments, which has continued from 8 to 23. I'm going to invite Danielle Evans, which is senior planner for the city to present any changes to the amendment to the board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is this the one related to keeping certain uses off of places like Mystic Avenue, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So to me, just quickly, it does make sense that the planning board, as Daniel has already outlined, and yourself has already outlined, Lucia, that we see things more holistically with the city's vision. I guess it comes to one of those things where I feel like it should be an elected board that is special from a granting agency, but I mean, authority, but If you're saying that you want, I can definitely see what you mean. I guess I had some hesitations before because it almost looked like we were trying to keep certain uses out on purpose. But if it's because you want it to be looked at more holistically, I just wanted to clarify that with the board that it just, as you said, it makes sense that we're actually looking at it at the city's vision.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And who's obligated to get the city's highest and best use for a site, right?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Same.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Daniel, I don't want to cut you off, but if you had referred to 3 a, and I don't know if you wanted to just just for public purposes at this point. Sort of explain that 3 is related to the multi house and actor. There's only that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Having inclusionary housing previously by special meant, which is didn't pretty much make sense. This is meant should be mandatory for the that's just that would be in conflict with the rule, correct? Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm still getting into E-H-O-L-C.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mike a clarifying question for number 5 are so the board's not able to vote on that one side because you still have to parse it out with the legal counsel to make sure that it's being presented properly. Even if you take out some of the information that you have there, it needs to be reviewed by legal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My only question, and that's for the board for deliberation, is that we understand that this is an interim step to hold over to zone revisions, and you want to get these administrative changes done. And to me as one board member, I can definitely vote on the other ones, but number five, I thought that there was like a process legally that before we change anything, we just had to make sure we were okay with what we're changing. And I don't know that I've wrapped my full head around exactly what that is. And I don't know if the board has, but I would also be inclined to say that I could recommend approval once you figure it out, once the city staff figured it out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'll open it up to the board now for clarifying questions and just to see exactly the temperature of where we're going with this and to see if there's any other questions that the board may have of Daniel. Daniel, if you're finished with your presentation, that is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If there's no more questions from the board, because this is still a public hearing, I'm going to open it up for public comment. I'm not sure that there's public on, but I will read. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hands feature or message Amanda in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. Amanda, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I'm going to close the public comment period. and go back to board deliberation. And I will just start by just, I will leave the floor open for the board members to add. But at this point, I appreciate the city's, all of the work that Daniel and other city staff has done in trying to identify these potential misaligned uses slash rules and rectify for ease for the city and ourselves. And Before I ask for a motion, I will ask if there is anything that the board wants to add.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I'm going to ask for potential motion to recommend approval of the proposed proposed ordinance amendments to the city council with the condition of Amanda. Can you help me capture that language for a number 5? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are there any objections? I do have one clarifying question on the marijuana and signed definitions. Maybe I didn't capture that one in my conditions. What was that one that we discussed for that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I'm going to try this again potential motion to recommend approval of the zoning ordinance amendments to City Council.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was going to read the motions just for public record. In addition to the definitions with the following conditions, in addition to the definitions included in the paper, to also include the marijuana and signed definitions from the former zoning ordinances in section 12.0, recommend that SBGA for the adjusted C2 uses be the CDB, For item number five, delegate to the PDS to update the language reflecting what was discussed, included in the recommendation to the city council. Recommend that city council delete the existing tables and replace with the recommended table from the CDB as presented in the PDS staff meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second second. Alright roll call vice chair Emily had a minute.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And. Peter, were you at Peter? Did you read this or I?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Marianski. Yes, Sally Kiki. Yes, and myself, Jackie person. Yes, that is. Unanimously accepted for recommendations for the city council.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Next item, board elections. So this is continued from 8 to 23, where we have re-established a chair, myself, as well as Emily Hederman is now the vice chair. And we still have a clerk position open and a community preservation committee representative open. And we were going to wait until we had full members to entertain those as of right now. Ari Fishman is in is sort of in the. CPA role, are you currently in that and you're. Looking to probably, you're just holding it over until someone else is able to take it. And so those 2 positions are open. Amanda, can you give a little bit of background on both positions for the new board members?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there anyone else that would want to throw their head in for Clark, or even CPA representative.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, I'm going to start with a motion to elect Peter cows as the clerk of the metric community development board. 2nd.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I'll make a motion. I'm sorry and that I apologize. I misspoke. I'm open. I'm looking for a motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, we, we, we, we, we haven't, um, we got a good idea. We got it. We don't want to scare.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so Amanda, what you were saying is someone else to make a motion or okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A 2nd motion. Sally, I second. Roll call, Vice Chair Emily Hederman. I. It accounts for himself. I. Are you fishman. I. And marianne ski I. Sally key key. I. Sure but restaurant. And myself jackie mcpherson I. Is there a motion to make our fishman. The community preservation committee representative. Since they have only been sitting in it as a holdover, but now it's official. So moved 2nd. A roll call vice chair, Emily had a man. Yes, I. Peter cows I. Fishman for your for themselves. Yes. Pam Mariansky. Yes. Sally Akiki. Aye. Chirag Bharachara.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an aye. Thank you both. Okay, so now our next item is approval of minutes from 7523 and 719 23. Before we make a motion, I want to note to Amanda. On 719 23, I believe it's item 7 for board elections. The very last item was not completed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A motion to approve 7523, the minutes of 7523, and then 719.23 with the edits as the staff finishes them, I mean edits them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call vice chair Emily Hedeman? Yes. Peter Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Mariansky? Yes. Sally Akiki? Yes. Shirag Barachara?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson, MNI. The final item on the board tonight is an update from the city staff on the status of the zoning. I'm inviting Daniel Evans again to provide an update to the board on status. Up the.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are there any questions before we go to the next item? I sort of was premature and saying that the previous that that item Danielle's item was the final 1. Oh, sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, that would be interesting with the MBTA zoning. It's like, where I work, I work hand in hand with Chris Clutchman, who's behind the MBTA zoning law and how she sort of defines it and things like that. So when those questions come up for Grant Steer or somebody that's in my actual portfolio, I refer to Chris, like, Chris, you got this one? So it's now it's like, okay, now I'm in Medford. It's like. Now it's like, I have to look at it as, you know, we have all these cities and towns coming to us to try to explain, have them explain it in the context of their communities. And now I have to try to figure out in the context of my own community. So very interesting, but I'm looking forward to it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, especially when you, especially with some of the communities as you said, it has to be community specific. And it's like, they come in and they say, well, you know, you're taking away our ability to do like, like you said, ground floor retail. And it's like, we need this commercial base. Like, why is it with this law? And you guys, you did this, you did this. I'm like, I'm sorry, I didn't do it. It's like, so now I'll be that same person screaming back at the state, like, why'd you do this? All right, so again, thank you Danielle. So, number 8 miscellaneous and other updates from the city.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, hearing nothing else from the city, thank you all. I'm going to ask for a motion to adjourn. I'll make a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call. Vice Chair Emily Hederman? Aye. Peter Kautz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Aye. Pam Mariansky? Aye. Sally Akiki? Aye. And I'm going to try one more time because I've been remiss in pronouncing your name correctly, Sharad. Sharad Bajracharya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Bajracharya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Bajracharya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Bajracharya.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm an I. And we are adjourned. Thank you, everyone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and I'll get that link in the chat. Thanks, Jackie. And once you click on that link, you can just go to current CD board file, CD board filings. I will do roll call attendance. Ari Fishman. Present. Pam Marianski. Present. Sally Akiki. Present. And myself, Jackie McPherson. Amanda, can you introduce any staff on the call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. Thank you, Amanda. Um, and so the first item that we have on our agenda for this evening is 2 43 mystic Avenue. Um, and I believe this, this is a public meeting, so I will read the public meeting notice. The method community development board shall conduct a public hearing on July 19th. Uh, I'm not sure if I have. Pardon me, Amanda, do I have the correct meeting notice?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It was actually moved to today's meeting, so perhaps that was the mix-up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: which was continued. And do I need to make reference to that or just gloss over the. Okay, yeah. To start over the medical community development board shall conduct a public hearing on August 2 2023. After 6pm via zoom, the remote veto conferencing relative to a petition by 243 Mystic Avenue LLC at 45 West 3rd Street, Boston Mass, 02127, to amend zoning map, City of Medford Mass, dated April 13th, 1965, as referenced in Medford's zoning ordinance chapter 94, 2.2. The amendment proposes to change the zoning district designation of the property 243 Mystic Avenue as depicted on the plan entitled site layout plan, dated June 15th, 2023, from commercial to C2 zoning district to a planned development district, which is a PDD and have, which would have new development standards for Metro zoning ordinance chapter 94, 9.23. The full materials for the amendment can be viewed in the office of planning. And again, Amanda has already shared that link with everyone. Amanda, do you actually, do you want to introduce this next, do you want to introduce who's here for this topic?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Attorney Osmond, for being here with us. One of the other things that I wanted to note for our board members is that this is the proponent will most likely present a high-level conceptual presentation. Our task is to focus on zoning, the uses and dimension at this step for the proposed parcel. It's not yet at the site review. So, um, as far as the vision and visuals and things like that, so we're, the onus is zoning. Um, I just wanted to, um, iterate that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: your detailed of the uses and you're going back and forth with, you know, just giving us, filling us the new board members in from previous meetings. Before I open it up, Amanda, I'm not sure if we should have Attorney Orzman step in here and pretty much set the stage before we get to the public comment, or should we go straight to the public comment first?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you attorney. I think that's where we're trying to get to, um, um, without the public and the board having a reference to those iterations, uh, that you and the proponent have done. Um, I'm just not, I'm not sure at this point, um, if how to guide the, the meeting going forward, I want to make sure that we're doing right by the city as well as a proponent. Um, so I guess at this time I will request, um, if there are any comments from the city staff.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And that's pretty much where I know it's a public hearing, but that's what I was trying to guide to stay at a conversation for the public and what we were opening it up for prior to opening it up. So thank you for referencing that, Daniel. But at this time, I will, I'll ask for clarifying questions to solicit from the board first before opening it up from the public. Does anyone from the board have any clarifying questions before we open it up
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Attorney Osmond. One of my actual questions is the intricacies of the multi-uses and all the different special permits that are needed. And I wasn't exactly sure, again, especially how you detailed the uses. And then the applicant has already tried to explain them out. But it's just, in layman's terms, it's kind of hard to capture here. So this is going to be played out later. At this point, what the board is trying to do is just to recommend it to the city council to continue this. Is that correct? So that it can be vetted out. Right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I apologize if I've taken up the time from other board members that have any questions. Hearing none, I'm going to open up the public comment period. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Amanda in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at medford-ma.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. Amanda, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So at this point, I will close the public comment period. And I will bring it back to board deliberation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, well, at this point, um, hearing, uh, no further, um, responses from the board, I will ask for a motion to recommend the, um, the language as is, uh, going to the city council as opposed to continue it or anything like that. Cause that's, uh, attorney Orzman has said, this has had many iterations with the city, with, uh, the applicants attorney, as well as, um, attorney Orzman as the city staff. And so we'll let it go to its next step with the city council and, um, So I will ask for a motion to recommend to the city council.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Mariansky. Yes. Sally Akiki. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much. I didn't get everyone's name. I do know attorney Heffernan. And I apologize, I didn't get everyone else's name. I see that everyone's on one screen, but thank you for your presentation and we will see you when you come back.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Have a great evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And thank you, Attorney Wasman.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We have the pleasure of site plan review for 285 to 295 Middlesex Ave, H Mart. Amanda, am I not mistaken if this is a request for motion for continuance based on a quorum issue? That is correct, yes. Is the applicant in attendance or have they been informed prior to?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so is it to a date certain or just being tabled to the next meeting?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: August 16th. And does that need a roll call vote or does that need a vote from the board or can we just, since they're not in attendance?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. May I please ask a motion from the board to continue the site plan review for 285 to 295 Middlesex Avenue to August 16th, 2023? Is it the 16th or the 19th? 16th. 16th. I so move. A second? Second. So roll call vote. Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Mariansky?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sally Akiki? Yes. And myself, Jackie, I'm yes. Our next item is 100 Winchester Street Plan Development District. I will read the public notice.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So just as any other regular city board public hearing notice, okay. So the Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a public hearing on August 2, 2023 after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom relative to a petition by 96-202 Winchester Street LLC to amend zoning map City of Medford Mass dated April 13, 1965 as referenced in Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94-2.2. The amendment proposes to change the zoning district designation of the properties 96-102 Winchester Street and 104 Winchester Street from General Residential, GR, to Zoning District and Commercial 1, C1. Zoning district to a planned development district, PDD, which would have new development standards as depicted on the plan entitled Area Plan at 100 Winchester Street, dated December 7th, 2022 from Medford Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 94, 9.2.3. A link to the public hearing is to be posted on the city's website at www.medford.ma.org, no later than July 18th, 2023, in which it has been posted already. Okay, I believe I've satisfied that obligatory. Please correct me if I'm mistaken, Amanda. Okay. So attorney Jonathan Silverstein of BBHS law is available as support and counsel for the board. Um, he will assist the board and draft an amendment and make a revision. Members should feel free to ask questions. Um, uh, welcome attorney Silverstein. Thank you for being here. Um, at this time, we're going to invite the applicant, uh, for 100 Winchester street to introduce themselves and present their proposal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Attorney Baranowski. Attorney Silverman, I'm not sure if you wanted to add any comments prior to the sitting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Attorney Silverstein. Are there any comments from the city staff? Amanda or Danielle, is there anything you want to add?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for that. One of the clarifying questions that I actually have Amanda. I'm not sure if you're or turning Silverstein is in the board's position on further department review or, um, or comments from the attorney or anything like that. I'm not sure what it is outside of, if you've said this has been in, um, you know, an iterative process where, um, the board has come to agreement with the attorneys as well as the city. Exactly. What would the board be pulling out of this at this point? If there was any kind of, um, any kind of concerns, because again, this is not site plan review. So. What will we if is it out of whack with the zoning? What is it that we're looking at?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Daniel, for explaining that. And it just brings me back to the kind of things that I want to kind of look at here are not part of zoning. And so that's why I have to keep asking clarifying questions to make sure that I'm keeping myself on tap. Because at this point, it's like, it looks like it's well prepared with legal as well as with the city is to move forward recommended, but I'm just one board member. And so at this point, it's like, it's just, the things that I want to talk about are not, they're not, we're not there yet. So I just wanted to make sure that we were focusing on the right items going before. And saying that, I will ask if there's any other clarifying questions from the board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. If there are no other board comments, I want to open it up for public comment. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature. message Amanda in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. Amanda, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So yes and no. So at this stage, we're doing the actual zoning and that's what we're focusing on. But should this get recommended and moved on, then the community development board has the onus of making sure that the site, we would review that at the site plan review.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Attorney Silverstein, are you able to help us out with the language here as far as how 17 on the dimensional standards and requirements would play out later?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, you're absolutely within rights and you have every right to have this question clarified. And what I was trying to get the attorney available to us to do is to better explain what it meant as captured here versus what we would be doing in the site plan review.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much for your question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Amanda. So I'm going to close the public comment period at this time and ask the board for any final clarification questions prior to deliberation. Does the board want to delve into anything else regarding adjustments to the proposed use table, dimensional table outside of what has already been raised with parking? hearing no further comments or questions from the board, and based on the information that I have from the city as well as from both attorneys, I'm going to ask for a potential motion to recommend approval of the drafted PDD rezoning ordinance for 100 Winchester Street PDD to city council. Does anyone want to give a motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Okay, we will do oral call. Iris Ackman? Yes. Pam Marianski? Yes. Sally Akiki? Yes. And myself, Jackie, I'm a yes. Thank you, Attorney Baranski and Mr. Barone, Attorney Silverstein, and everyone else that has joined us. And we will see you again.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so the next item on the agenda is a petition from PDS the city council proposing zoning ordinance amendments. public hearing announcement?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I thought I did hear two people second. I heard, I think I heard two people at once. I apologize. I think Sally made the motion and I believe Ari seconded it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The method community development board shall conduct a public hearing on August 2 2023 after 630pm via zoom relative to a petition by city council, Vice President Isaac B. Zack Harris bears, Councilor Richard carrybo and Councilor kit columns to amend chapter 94 zoning of the revised ordinances. City of Medford, as outlined in papers 23 through 323 title proposed amendments to the Metro zoning ordinance for June, 2023 per June 6, 2023. The petition, the petition proposes corrections and clarifications for technical discrepancies. In addition to one amending the table of use and parking regulations for each motor vehicle related uses and I miscellaneous commercial uses. Two, amending language, regulating multiple principal structures on the lot. Three, amending language, allowing a second associate member for the board of appeals and four, eliminating the special permit requirement for inclusionary zone, inclusionary housing. I apologize. A link to the public hearing is to be posted on the city's website and it was posted related in July 18th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Um, just kind of, and which one is that Danielle? I'm sorry that you're looking at right now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Alicia, and for the newer board members, I remember you laid this out for us in a meeting on June 7 and pretty much one of the uses and being a special permit granting. I know that the city feels as though it's probably easier for it to go to the community development board. And I don't know the position of the rest of the board at this point, but if we can just, I guess for my own purposes, I was able to talk to Danielle and Amanda earlier. If you can just give a little bit more context of why you probably want to keep it with community development board as a special permit granting agency.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for reading that I do know that there was a clarifying question that was asked because the way it was presented originally just for myself anyways and it sounds like maybe another board member. with the question was that it sounded like someone was trying to come in. So the way that you explained that, it's not that it was like, it sounded more like a political kind of thing where it's like, now you have these appointed members that are, um, are sort of, um, responsible for these, uh, permits case by case basis. And that's not what you're saying. What you're saying is that you want to make it that's well-formed so that we're able to get the highest and best uses for the space on Mystic Ave as opposed to. just having like a lot of parking lots and in automobiles and things like that. So I just want I just wanted to clarify that piece.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, so this is like an interim step to hold over to the zoning revisions that you also mentioned it was the city was going to hire a consultant to do a redraft so that we can be better guided going forward. And I, and you said there was going to be maybe a chunk of these administrative kind of changes coming through and we should probably move. fast as possible, but what is the best way for them to be presented as Danielle's doing tonight? If we're not voting on them, are we just going over them and then we'll, I mean, I guess I should let Danielle finish talking.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I'm sorry I asked a lot of questions based on prior knowledge I don't know, Daniel if you were finished with your presentation or if you wanted to open it up to the board to ask questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Did you want us to do this as an exercise along with you or separate? I'm trying to figure out the best way to go through.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we respect to the timing of this as Alicia has already pointed out and making sure that it's not convoluted to get it pushed through city council. Assuming that all board members, including myself would have to be read. I would have to like just read the comprehensive plan again for the use table just to see what the vision is and what we want to put there for the future. I know you're well versed in what's what the city has for a vision Danielle so if you can maybe point out some high level things you mentioned earlier, something about a convenience store, it's a shame that they have to have a special permit, but something else didn't. So if you can give us some high level things that we can actually deliberate on, and not so much telling us exactly what we should be changing, but just give us a little bit more to like, just zoom in for the sake of time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's all I have. Thank you, Danielle. So it is a public meeting. So I wanna make sure that we got all of the board's questions. I still do have, I believe a couple of questions, but I guess I'll table them for when you said you're gonna sort of clean this up and, cause we can't really vote on it tonight, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, it definitely does. And I actually like that we have the lawyer's comments that can set us straight here. So it keeps us straight, actually. And had I known that you wanted us to do that exercise, I could have looked at the use, we could have all looked at the use table to get it done a little bit faster.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My interest is how to sort of see what the board is feeling about being the special grant authority for as presented for these changes? And I know that we don't have all members in attendance, but I guess that's one of my main questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's definitely this is a public hearing now, just, uh, reiterate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I actually, um, I have no objections overall, but at the same time, I would definitely like to have a full board, um, and to be able to weigh in on that. Um, but at the same time, I do know that they have the option to view, um, the recordings, but in order to provide, um, feedback to the planning staff.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Definitely it's uh, thank you so much for reminding me of that. So based on the mullins statute, um any board member that's absent still gets its voting authority, but um, but at the same time they must attest to the fact that They have watched all statutory, um recordings or proceedings in order to participate so the absent members still get to participate but um I guess, who would, would the city actually give them that option to participate with tonight, or would they just know to do that, Amanda?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And have we, we've definitely confirmed that based on the Mullen statute, right? Because there was some nuances around the word absence. It says when a member is absent, they can still catch up and, you know, attest to the fact that they've read the statutorial proceedings, but absent meaning they would have had to have been an established board member at the time of, correct? Yes. Yeah. Okay. I just wanted to make sure that we were clear on that because It couldn't be read wrong, but even another Metro resident, my husband, he read it and said, no, no, no, that's not how it goes. So anyways, I was just trying to make sure that we got clarity on that. Okay, but because it is, we can continue to deliberate. Does any board members have any other questions before I open it up to the public? Okay, so I'm going to open public comment period. So those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature. If anyone's on or looking, message Amanda in the comments. I'm not sure that anyone's on for that. But Amanda, if you can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. And in saying that, again, I don't believe we have any members of the public on, but Amanda, if you can, Um, see if there's any emails or letters that were sent out. Regarding this item.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. So procedurally, I will close the public comment period and board will go back to deliberation. And this is, uh, uh, another chance for us to discuss, um, the proposal, which, um, or hash out any questions since it's not really anything to vote on at this point. Um, if there's any adjustments or any concerns that the board may have, um, the proposed use of the use table or anything that you see that has been presented. Um, again, my, my. One of my only, cause I, I'm not, I'm a minimal to many things, but one of my questions is, um, have any other board members weigh in, but I guess they have to do their due diligence and catching up with tonight's public meeting to be able to participate in that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay so this has to get out and because it's a public meeting it has to um I am going to say we should probably obviously continue this and it has to be a date certain correct? Yes. So August 16th will be the next meeting. So if I can have a motion to continue this topic actually not this topic but the petition from PDS and City Hall proposing zoning ordinance amendments to August 16th, 2023 Community Development Meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I apologize. I thought I changed it and I did it backwards. Sorry. No worries. My most sincere apologies. Again, Ari Fishman. Yes. Pam Marionski.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sally Akiki. Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. So we will continue with our next item, which Board elections. Again, in the absence of two members, I'm not sure that we are prepared for this. I don't know, Amanda, if you've received any interest for the clerk or the community preservation committee representative. I do know that Ari, you are concurrently holding over in CPA. I didn't know if we were restructuring or looking at that again.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, hold the post. We have an empty clerk seat as it stands? Correct. Okay. Okay, so next item, approval of minutes. if I can actually have a motion to approve the minutes from 6-7-23. Actually, this is a question I have. I'm not sure, Pam and Sally, if you were in attendance or if you were even part of the board on 6-7. Amanda, are they able to vote on the minutes?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're like, you're just you have them in your which they're voted into record, which is weird, because you can't vote statutorily on something that you can watch and pretty much be a part of by watching it, but you can vote. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, that was the question that I had. Not so much there, again, the nuance of the word absence, not so much that they were absent from the meeting, but that they were not even a part of the board at the time of the meeting? That's for public hearings. No, I mean, I was just meaning, can they still vote?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, if you're absolutely sure that we can, we don't have to hold it over. I'm okay with vote, and I just thought maybe it's after we accepted it, and maybe Emily and Peter came back and said, oh, wait, that's not what it said. How do we rectify that? How do we go back? You could amend them, I guess. Oh, you could amend them. Okay. Well, then if there's a way forward, then I don't see what these are June minutes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So at this time, I'll ask for a motion to accept the minute means from 6-7-23. I so move. And a second. Second. Okay, we'll call Ari Fishman. Yes. Pam Marianski. Yes. Sally Akiki. Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson, I'm a yes. So miscellaneous and other updates. Does the city have anything, Amanda or Daniel, do you have anything that you want to announce at this time or share?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I want to thank all of you for being patient with me on these PDDs because they're pretty much new to the city, and I can't get my head wrapped around the fact that we're still in the zone amendment, especially with all the legalese that's going behind it and with the absence of like a city solicitor that you can just reach out and be like, okay, what's going on and things like that. So you guys have done an amazing job at the city staff on just getting it to where it's at. So it's like, I'm just, I'm at that point myself as one board member, I'm ready to dive into the site plan. So this is, it's a little difficult. So it's even more difficult to like lead the board and what we're supposed to do. So to get to that point. So I appreciate all of your help on that again, because I felt like a fish out of water really with the PDDs again, being new at it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And so I know I will work with all of you. So I appreciate that. And one other thing I wanted to ask, I wanted to make sure that I'm pronouncing names properly outside of getting Irie's last name proper. Pam Marianski. Am I saying it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Maryanski. Maryanski? OK. That's how I say it. And then Sally, am I saying it proper? Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Awesome. I just I don't know the last meeting I kept saying to myself like I should have asked but and so I asked. So I don't have anything.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, it's okay. Don't tell my husband that, even though he's close. I still answer to Furtado. That's who I've been for nearly 50 years. So I forget that I'm embarrassing myself at times. So that's all I have.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so if there's nothing else, does someone want to make a motion to adjourn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pam Marianski? Yes. Sally Akiki. Yes. And Jackie McPherson. Yes. Thank you everyone and have a great night. See you on August 16th. Thank you everyone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll call the meeting to order. Let's begin with some regulatory procedural matters. This hearing of the Metro Community Development Board is being conducted via remote means. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. A reminder that anyone who would like to listen to or view this meeting while in progress may do so by accessing the link that was included on the meeting agenda posted on the City of Metro's website. If despite our best efforts, we are not able to provide real time access, we will post a recording of this meeting on the city's website as soon as possible. A reminder that given the remote nature of this meeting tonight, all votes from the board will be made by roll call. Please also know that the project materials for all projects before the board can be viewed on the city's website at medfordma.org. And I believe Amanda will be sharing that in the chat within the link is in the chat. Okay. We want to provide a warm welcome to our newest board members, Sally and Pam. Thank you for joining us. So now that we've done that, we're going to do roll call attendance. I don't believe Emily, so I will start with Peter Kautz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Goffman. Present. Fishman now. Fishman no Goffman. Okay, I will make note of that and our newest members Pam Marianski Yep hasn't Sally Akiki present and myself Oh before I go to myself to see if Emily has been here. I can't see Present hi Emily and myself Jackie McPherson Amanda, can you please introduce any staff that may be on?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, going to the first, to our first project, which is the planned development district at 243 Mystic Avenue, which is Verdant Bio. We've been told that the applicant has requested a continuance of this hearing to August 2nd. CDB meeting. Can I have a board member motion to continue the public hearing for this project to August 2nd?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and Emily second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, we're going to do a full roll call. All right, and I will start this time. Emily Hedeman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter Cowes? Yes. Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Marianski? Yes. Sally Akiki? Yes. And myself, Jacqueline Fenton is also a yes. And for number three, site plan review, 285 to 295 Middlesex Ave, which is H Mart. H Mart, pardon. The applicant is in the process of revising plan documents for the board's review. I'd like to entertain a motion to continue this item to the next board meeting date on August 2nd. Can I please have a board member provide a motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And a second?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. And we will go back. Emily Hederman? Yes. Peter Kaut?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Marionski?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sally Akiki? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson, say yes. Special permit for drive-through use. 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway, which is Bank of America. We just got word that the applicant has requested a continuance to 8-16 board meeting. I'd like to entertain a motion for continuance. Is there a board member that would like to provide a motion? Motion. And a second motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call vote. Emily Hederman? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman. Did we lose Ari?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: She said yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. Pam Marionski. Sally Akiki. Yes. And myself, Jacki McPherson, say yes. Let's see. All right. So now, we're doing the Dover U site plan for 550 Boston Ave, Tufts Bacon Hall. I'm gonna read the public notice for this. I believe that the applicant is present. Amanda, have you let everyone in?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Just wanna pull up the, pardon me, public notice for 550 Boston Ave. Is it a public hearing? The Medford Community Development Board shall conduct a meeting on July 19th, 2023 after 6.30 p.m. via Zoom remote video conferencing relative to an application for site plan review submitted by the trustees of Tufts College at 14 Caton Street, Medford, Massachusetts 02155 to construct a 3,330 square feet infill addition to the existing building at 530 Boston Ave and add an egress on part of 530 and 540 Boston Ave a.k.a. 550 Boston Avenue. A portion of the building on 530 Boston Ave is on 520 Boston Ave, and utilities will be delivered from the 550 Boston Ave property to the 530 Boston Avenue property. The project is subject to site plan review for the City of Medford Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 94, Section 11.8.2, and requires approval from the Community Development Board for Dover Amendment uses pursuant to the section. Therefore, the site plan review authority shall be the Community Development Board. Plans for this project may be viewed in the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability City Hall and on the city's website. Amanda, will you provide a link for that? Yes, I'll post it in the chat. Okay, awesome. Are we ready? Yes, we are ready. Amanda, do you want to introduce whoever's here from Tufts?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Attorney Dash, for the presentation. I am going to open it up for public comment at this time. And oh, actually, before we go to public comment, I'm going to open it up to the city staff if there's anything that you want to add.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So as of now, all of the city staff comments have been addressed, including the fire department.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And with the absence of the city engineer, I'm not exactly sure outside of those recommendations, what the board would be able to deliberate on based on the fact that this is covered under the Dover amendment. Alicia, did you want to weigh in on anything before opening it up to the public?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ouch.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does the board want, I'm going to open it up now to see if the board has any clarifying questions before I open it up to the public. Does anyone from the board have any clarifying questions? I do. Yes, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Does any of the board members have other questions? Hearing none, I'm going to open it up to the public. Those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Amanda in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. Remind all meeting participants to refrain from using the chat function to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. However, if a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat to alert the chair and staff. Amanda, can you please manage the public comment queue and read any previously sent emails or letters if you do not? see anything.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So I will close the public comment period at this time, seeing that there's no public comments, and I will bring it back to the board for deliberation on this. Does anyone have any of the board members have anything that they want to add to speak as far as the decision on this?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, of course.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I will close the deliberations by actually echoing what Emily has said. I appreciate your detailed presentation. Attorney Dash, I appreciate your stance on reminding the city and the board exactly what is limited within the Dover Amendment. And I believe that we have covered all of the items that we needed to. And I'm going to ask for a motion to approve
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm not sure that we can impose any kind of conditions going forward. The proponent has done a detailed presentation, which I believe covers everything in the scope of the Dover amendment. And as has been said, providing one cross work as a courtesy, I'm not comfortable myself as just one board member imposing any other conditions before recommending that the site plan be Um. Accepted as is. And in saying that, I would say if any board members wanted to make a motion to accept the site plan, the Dover use of the site plan for the 550 Boston Ave.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there a second? I would like to second. And I'm going to do roll call. Emily Hederman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter. Sorry, I just lost my screen. One second. I apologize, I'm just trying to see who's here. Are you Fishman? Yes. Pam Marionski? Yes. Sally Akiki? Yes. And myself, Jackie McPherson is a yes. Thank you so much, Attorney Dash, Rocco, and all others that have done your presentation. We appreciate it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Have a great evening. Thank you. Now, we're going to come to board elections. Actually, before we do board elections, Amanda, would it be. Should we vote on the meeting minutes from 517 1st? Oh, I can just get it out of the way the approval of minutes. Peter, have you rejoined us? I'm sorry, I'm having technical difficulties. Yeah, I'm here. I'm back. Awesome. I wanted to see if anyone wants to make a motion to approve the meet and minutes from 5-17-23.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. And so I do have a clarifying question before we go forward. Amanda, are we... Yes. We have board members that were not present at the time of will they will their vote carry?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So we're gonna do a roll
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are you Fishman? Yes. Pam Mariansky? Yes. Sally Akiki? Yes. And Jackie McPherson? I'm a yes. Now to our final topic or close to final topic, board elections. So the board As we know, our former chair has turned out and he has left. And so now we have to elect a new chair, as well as me sitting in the vice chair position, that position has to be reelected. And then we also need a community preservation committee representative. Um, that's just to start off the conversations. I have decided to put my head in for the chair position. Um, and I didn't know if anyone else was also vying to be chair.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, thank you so much for the vote of confidence, Emily. With my technical difficulties and everything over here, I'm like. So I guess carrying no other names, I'll do a roll call vote for Jackie McPherson for chair. Amanda, is that correct? Yes, yes, that sounds right. All right, I just wanted to make sure before I pompously move forward. Emily Hederman? Enthusiastic, yes. Thank you. Thank you so much. Preeta Cowles?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ari Fishman? An enthusiastic yes. Pam Marionski? Yes. Sally Akiki? Yes. And myself, of course, I'm Jackie McPherson. I'm a yes. Now, if anyone, because now there's no vice chair to back me up, or as per our ordinance, would anyone like to put their hat in for the vice chair position?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, definitely. Thank you, Amanda. I think you've captured well, and it's literally a backup to the chair where if David has recused the former chair, Bloomberg had to recuse himself for anything, which is maybe only once or twice that I've known that him being chair, I've had to step in. I've had the opportunity or honor to step in. And then obviously now with him having turned out, I was able to step in and provide the chair role now, but there was no difference than being a regular board member, but just knowing in the back of your mind that, you know, he would reach out in enough time to give you that option. So it wasn't like it was a surprise or anything like that, but just being a backup.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So that that helps facilitate these meetings, and some of the things, just just for full transparency the city has been awesome and helping to guide conversations not so much to just just given another perspective of what what we should be looking at, not so much in how we're to determine anything, but so we've been getting a lot of administrative assistance from the city in that respect, which I have definitely appreciated from Danielle with the PDS going forward. So you're never out on a limb, kind of just to give that background.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Emily.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Emily, for stepping up. And we are going to do a roll call for Emily, if there's no other people that want to vie for the position of vice chair. So roll call, Emily Hedeman. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Thank you, Emily, and welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So now we're just going to come back to Amanda and sort of say, okay, so now we have the clerk position. And one of the things that I've learned about the clerk position is that I was asking Amanda about taking conditions as we're going through the meeting and things like that, if I'm supposed to write them, if Amanda's supposed to write them. And I think that's something more that the city wants to lean kind of on the clerk for. So just keeping that in mind, not to scare anyone away, but Amanda, you can go into more detail about that position. Absolutely, yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Emily, for articulating exactly what I was trying to articulate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry, so I was kicked out of the meeting for a little bit. I apologize if I missed If anyone, at your presentation, Amanda, of the, what it entails to be a CPA representative, I wasn't sure if anyone wanted to, if anyone had put their hat in, their name in the hat. I'm sorry, I'm not even sure if any of you can hear me, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: part of my technical difficulties. I'm working on three different computers now, not just one. Oh no. That's life. I'm sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, we're going to table for now. So, are you okay staying as CPA rep in the interim or are you? Okay. So, you'll stay and then we'll revisit clerk and CPA going forward. Okay. Amanda, do you have any miscellaneous updates or announcements?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There was one miscellaneous item that I want to discuss openly, speaking of assistance from the city and that's, and having discussions with Amanda, we were talking about the ability to have site visits. I know that sometimes when we get the materials, we have just enough time to visit. I mean, just enough time to go over them and not really enough time to visit. And Amanda has offered a solution that can pretty much help the board implement or make a site visit happen. Amanda, do you want to speak on that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for the clarification. Clarifying question, Alicia, as well as Amanda, following up with that. What I had more in mind is like, for instance, I will get for myself, for my own interests, sometimes I will get the material and I'll say, well, I wish I had time. I just, you know, I just did my walk on that or I just I was at the grocery store on that side and I wish I had a time. a chance to kind of see this because it'd be like some tiny nuance. But that's just for my own personal preference. And so I thought maybe it could be open up to the entire board, not so much as mandatory or even a requirement, but more if you had the time and you wanted to be able to see a project. If they thought that there was a problem, someone that could not be pretty much understood on paper, if we can get enough time to decide if we wanted to go out individually and see the site.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mine is more so like if it's a PDD and it's coming to a certain area, like we're very new at the PDD process. So let me see where this, I wanna see it visually, off paper kind of thing. So that's more of what I was talking about. It's not gonna be every single project, but just if the board wanted to see something that they had an interest in seeing on the ground. That's all, not everything. I think a lot of the things that we can pretty much tackle virtually, but just if there was like an extra, not to burden the board more, just giving them extra help in trying to figure it out, that's all.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for even entertaining it Amanda, I didn't want to add any extra arduous tasks onto it at the same time, just like with land use, right? You want to make sure that you're using the board's highest and best use of time. But I just know that there's just been a couple of instances that I wish I had a little bit more time to myself. And so I was just opening it up for the board. And I didn't mean to make that a huge thing, but... No, I think it's a great suggestion. Well, thank you for the discussion, everyone. At this point, if there is nothing else on the agenda, if no one else has anything to add, I'm going to ask for a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll second it, Pam. Second motion. So roll call vote. Emily Edelman?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vice Chair Emily Edelman? Peter Kautz? Yes. Ari Fishman? Yes. Pam Mariansky? Yes. Sally Akiki?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And myself, Jackie McPherson, is a yes. Thank you, everyone, and see you on August 2nd. Thanks, everybody. Good night.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I see them twice.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Alicia, do you know what the paper trigger was for the lie?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm almost positive. I can't say that I can't say that I'm positive about knowing but I'm just wondering if it's transportation which we discussed in detail. Right. Right. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was on mute, I apologize. So I live right across the street behind 61 Locust, and one of the things, as the point has said, it can be underutilized, but then there's times it's like, when it's bursting, right? And now that there's the Ford Tavern there, the Ford Tavern, I thought had some kind of a, I'm not sure, the city would know this more. a partnership with that least parking that's right directly across the street from it and then when they're still over during the holidays from the metal glen mall that parking lot is used and if i'm not mistaken there's also a dog park there that is sometimes brings more cars so i'm just trying to figure out um I'm glad that the commissioner brought up the parking issue because I'm trying to figure out where all of those cars would go, even though it's not pretty much utilized for, I don't know, 70% of the year, 30% is still a lot when you don't have parking. So I'm just trying to, in the absence of department head information from the traffic engineer, I guess I'm just,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I know you didn't ask me, but thanks to that development that's on close to 61 Locust, we do. That actually came with a previous development.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And before we do a motion, we may not have a quorum, but we can just continue it in it. There's no quorum and it's just continuous. That's what I'm concerned with. Cause I know we're losing members and I myself will not be here July 5th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I motion. I second Emily's and Emily you second Peter's for me. Yeah, I second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll vote to approve the minutes from 520 523 5323 5323. You got it. Okay. Is there a second for Jackie's motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I will tell you offline, I'll pick up the conversation offline but I want to thank you for meeting us, Mr. Chair. That's for sure, because I know even in preparation within my seat, it's it's a heavy lift and I can only imagine all that you had to do to keep up so I appreciate all done I think I can't speak for the board, but It gives me angst to know that we're going to lose you in leading that. Because I'm sure that, like myself, all of us want to see the city pull forward with these planning projects and things like that. But it's kind of hard, the capacity of it, the bandwidth of it, right? So we are very appreciative. I'm very appreciative of all you've done to keep us straight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If you didn't mention mistakes, I wouldn't know that they existed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll give a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is Vice Chair Jackie McPherson. As Attorney Dash has mentioned, the nonconformity increased by 2% of the lot coverage. That really isn't a thing, right? Because it's an academic quad. I'm just, I want to make sure that we're clear here. I don't I don't see any issues and as far as parking, because again it's academic why it does, I don't think that will increase parking is right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. I just wanted to be clear. Thank you. And one other question that's kind of related, but not really. When is sociology moving to Eaton Hall? I'm a Tufts alum. That's the only other question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Awesome. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: David, this is Vice Chair Jackie McPherson. I have a couple of questions. One, it is exciting to have this new means coming in, and I can definitely see a large customer base and maybe market demand. And speaking of that, one of the things that I noticed And just for the area over there in Middlesex Ave, is there, one of my first questions is, I wasn't aware that this was a grocery store previously. I thought it was always a fitness center even before crunch. So I didn't realize that it was already set up to be a grocery center. So I'm trying to figure out how emergency vehicles and if trucks are tight and they're loading. How would emergency vehicles go in there? Then my second piece to that is traffic generation trips are going to be higher. And I want to know if it was standard uses or if it was actually determined at certain peak hours. And then secondly, the pedestrian set up over there is lacking on Middlesex Ave. So I have a couple of questions surrounding safety. And if it wants to just speak a little bit more on so basically my overall questions are safety. Access for proper access for emergency vehicles and then. traffic generation, which you say, for instance, this is as we just heard from one of our residents, Miss Kim stated that it would be a demand, even I was shocked, you know, it sounds like it's a great place going to bring all kinds of people. Are we prepared for this and with the proper traffic generation resource?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm sorry, one of my biggest concerns is that the walkability issue over there. My dentist is actually located right next door to Crunch Fitness. And when I walk over there, and so what you bring it in the college, tuck, tuck, and just having other options, not all will use Ubers a lot. will implement the blue bikes that the city is installing around Medford now. And so, and I've seen that a lot, even increasing with going to BJ's across the street from that. And so I'm just a little concerned about, I literally, if I'm walking over, if I decide to leave my car at home and I'm walking over there, I'm making a run for my life. And it's like, it's a little bit more than hoping that the cars will drive, you know, safely. And I'm not putting it on you. It's just that it is bringing in more traffic. So that's where my concern comes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just having a hard time envisioning it only because I know just from being in Medford itself and living across from Wegmans with that, that's a larger and it brings a lot of traffic to the region. And with H Mart being specialized, we just don't know the market base and what that traffic would bring. So I'm just not convinced that it won't be a huge significant increase. But I'll leave that to the traffic engineer.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. And my thoughts are anecdotal from being a neighbor, and from pretty much using all these spaces that we're referencing, and just me being over there. So I guess I'll just, I'll defer to the experts on that. It's just as a neighbor myself, or as a resident of Medford, it's just a concern.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: especially accessing the site from Middlesex Avenue. That's one of my biggest, because again, as Christy has already mentioned, as a board, we're looking to make sure that as you're building, we're making sure that we're getting, we're making sure that there's a community benefit and you being a community neighbor, this is our opportunity to make sure that it's done well. And not to put the stress or burden or economic burden on you, but at the same time, pedestrian safety should be at the top.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So to clarify, this is for one change or a few changes?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I wanted to speak on a July 5th meeting. I know that I will not be in attendance because I won't be in the states. So I don't know where that leaves us with quorum or anything like that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm sorry, before you do the roll call this is vice chair McPherson. Can I have a clarifying question in order to do that I thought that originally, Attorney Desmond had said that the project had to be complete first are we able to give that condition now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I just wanted to make sure that it wasn't adding extra layers for the proponent to go forward. Okay, I understand.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, David.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi, everyone. This is Jackie Patato, Vice Chair. And at this point, since David has already prepared us for what to be going before us, I will ask the proponent, Mr. Mavini, if you can, if you wanted to take over and Amanda, if you can please give him the control so that he can share his screen with us and he can do his presentation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, Mr. I appreciate you going over those very extensively with the full details. At this point, what I'll stop in and I'll open it up to the city staff to provide any kind of input that they may have at this at this time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry. Director, thank you very much. Director Hunt or Amanda, if you have anything that you want to add to this before we open it up to our board and to the public.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Yes. And thank you, Amanda. And thank you, Director Hunt. I appreciate it. And as I was, I've actually, I quickly cross-referenced myself as Mr. Vinnie was going through everything. And it seems we do have obviously a couple of new comments that came in from the city, but it seems as though the city staff, the department heads don't have much more to add either, but we'll get to that part after I open it up to the rest of the board to see if they have any questions. Does any board members want to speak or provide input.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we have any other questions or comments from board before we open it up for the public? All right, hearing none, I am actually going to go ahead and open up to the public. And so those who wish to provide comments can use the raise hand feature or message Amanda in the comments. You can also send an email to OCD at Medford-MA.gov. Before providing your comments, please state your name and address for the record. Remind all meeting participants to refrain from using the chat function. to provide comments as it is not part of the public record. If a participant is having audio or other technical difficulties, this may be entered into the chat. So I'd like to share and all the staff. Amanda, I can't see the entire screen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: At this time, Amanda, I'm gonna, so I will close the public comments since you don't have, since we don't have any that are coming in right now. And one of the things I wanted to just make sure is that before I proceed to the board to get us to deliberate, I want to make sure that we are in compliance with making sure that we're considering the special permit as the grant and authority. We've already looked at if there's a special, if you can guide me on if there's a special consideration besides what the department has already entered into, or have already provided to the proponent to be considered, whether it's for traffic or anything like that. Other than that, then the board would deliberate without, the board would deliberate outside of whatever you suggest.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And for public purposes, do you want me to read those out? Sure. Yeah, actually, it could be good just to... Okay. As per 94-11.62 for a special permit criteria, what we are now determining is the consideration of the following. One, that social, economic, or community needs which are served by the proposal. Two, traffic flow and safety, including parking and loading. Three, adequacy of utilities and other public services. Four, compatibility with the size, scale, and design of other structures in the neighborhood. Five, impacts on the natural environment. And six, the proposal's compatibility with the purposes of the city's comprehensive plan, which we have heard from the city's director, Hunt, that it goes well with the community's needs there. Based on an update from the traffic information from Todd Blake, his overall sentiment in regards to traffic, there's this one tiny mitigation that the proponent can consider and that's just additional blue bikes. But I want to bring attention to the fact that two of our conditions previously from the previous board ruling, number one and two may be outdated. So that's something to look at going forward. And overall, his assessment of the project hasn't changed, then his recommendations have not changed. That's in regards to traffic.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, of course.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then in addition, one of the newest is from the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion that was not included previously. Have you looked at those requirements, those recommendations for ADA compliance?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Without my influence, I want to say that based on what I've seen and what has been prepared here in the length of our conditions previously, if we looked at our conditions, I think it pretty much covers one through six, but I would need, I don't stand alone, and I would need the board to pretty much weigh in on what you think. This is our first one, so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I guess before we actually vote on it, Amanda, are we, the onus is on us to make sure that we have all these conditions again, because we can't just rely on the previous conditions because a couple of them are outdated, right? So would we need to relist those 16 conditions? I believe it was 16 conditions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I guess this is more of a two-part kind of thing, because we're also doing site plan review. So should we do that separately, or should we review the actual standards for approval for that going forward?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, determining that we're hitting on every, um, one of the, uh, the listed points.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So basically what I'm asking the board is, do we find that one social economic community needs, which are served by the proposal and the Two, do we find that the traffic flow and safety include in parking and loading? Three, do we find adequacy of utilities and other public services? Four, compatibility with the size, scale and design of other structures in the neighborhood? Five, do we find impacts on the natural environment? And six, do we find the proposal's compatibility with the purposes of the city's comprehensive plan before we make recommendations? Is what I am asking the board.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think we've got it. Thank you, Peter. To me, the social economic community needs definitely served, obviously, because as Peter has pointed out, before it was just the parking garage that was serving cars. Now it's going to be serving people, communities, economic benefit for the community. But again, I cannot stand alone on that. Two, traffic flow and safety, including parking and loading, has been determined by Todd Blake. And so I'm going on the expert of the department head. Three, adequacy of utilities and public utilities. I am going by, again, the determination of the department heads. As far as the compatibility with the size, scale, and design of other structures in the neighborhood. As far as scale, that's something that we can further discuss if we We had board member Clay's agency has already Asked a few questions. I didn't have any myself. I didn't know if any of the other board members wanted to do a great on that particular point As far as impacts on a natural environment Direct director hunt. I don't know if you have a specific thing for climate or resiliency there for us to do a rate on that point. I
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So if we can probably clean up the conditions. So, um, how does the board feel about the existing conditions with eliminate and one and two, um, as being obsolete, um, as per Todd Blake. And then if we wanted to add any Peter, um, I know I'm, I'm.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: General sense before we do a motion. I just want to get the conditions under control. Um, so that's Amanda. Thank you. Um, so Amanda, that would be striking one and two from the, uh, previous conditions. Sounds good. And then adding, um, How do we feel about adding the blue bike reference from public? And the one thing is in number 15, I guess we would just update. to perform a compliance with recommendations and we would update all of the letters at this point because there are up to include updated letters as well as the brand new office of diversity. That was originally included. So based on those conditions, if we can have a motion to grants a special permit to, uh, for the approval. What conditions as do we have, would we have to state them again, Amanda?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I apologize I mentioned that and we would do the list but neglected to add it as a condition. All good. So with that, we'll be updated. Seeing no other conditions from the board or no other input, do we have a motion to grant a special permit to 200 Boston Ave for approval with conditions as stated?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is Christy, I second. OK, I'm going to do a roll call. I'll start with Claes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Christy? Aye. And I apologize. I'm not saying the names. Clay's agency. Um, and Christie Dowd, Peter cows, Ari Gold, Goldman Fishman. You're on. I saw you say, I saw you mouthing it. Sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I, and myself, I am a yes as well. Okay, Amanda, I don't know if you want to put the SPR standards for approval. I can read them out for the public purpose and the board can go through them. So for one, the provisions of vehicular loading and unloading, what we are looking at now for the actual site plan review, as we all know, we're looking at the provisions for vehicular loading and unloading and parking and for vehicular and pedestrian circulation on the site and into adjacent public streets and ways. It will not create hazards to safety or impose a significant burden upon public facilities. Two, the bulk location or height of proposed buildings and structures and paved areas and the proposed uses thereof will not be detrimental to other private development in the neighborhood and will not impose undue burdens on the sewers, sanitary and storm drains, water distribution system or similar public facilities. And I'm going to pause for really quickly. Amanda, we've done site plan review and I think we all know this. I'm just rereading this because of our previous activity. Do I continue to read this or since the board is well aware of this process?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. The one difference that I see with this is a question I was in, I'm not sure if it was covered earlier and how you were going to handle the trash removal. And that's to Mr. Avini.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. And we discussed exterior lighting earlier with one of the provisions that Police Anderson has already laid out. Does any board members have anything else that they want to add as far as the site plan overall. It's almost like a repeat of everything that we've already gone over, and especially with all of the conditions that we've already had before. So I'm going to ask for a motion to recommend the site plan for approval for 200 Boston now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll do a roll call.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye. Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Amanda, Director Hunt, do you have any input on, is there something in the ordinance that says how long a special permit is valid for?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You too. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just but I feel that saying places last name, and properly, I'm sorry. Mr. Andreessen Andreessen I know how to say your last name.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll give a motion to move it along. I second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, it's okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I actually had circulation question. This is Vice Chair Jackie McPherson. I don't have any because the presentation actually went over everything, so I didn't want to reiterate something that was already presented. it was thoroughly covered.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just, David, it has a lot with the fact that you're also an attorney and if anyone was going to understand what was going on tonight you'd be.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi. Hi.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I apologize, Kyle, I don't mean to interrupt you but there's something I should, I want to make sure there's not a conflict and I want to make sure that there's nothing precluding the approval from the board for you. So, Julie Cowan is my quasi-partner over at Mass Development. I work for the Secretary of Economic Development. SSBCI funding comes through my channels, and I just wanted to make sure that there's no conflict. I don't know if, David, if you're able to answer that question, but I just want to make sure that I'm not the reason that the proponent won't move forward.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But I just don't want to make sure that Kyle and Brian does not come after me if there's anything that concludes this process.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, sorry I'm accused.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Welcome, George.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If I may, David, this is Jackie, vice chair. Before the proponent moves forward, Amanda or Alicia, if you can provide some background, I know on A&R generally, we must have enough frontage. That's what we're looking for. Cause it doesn't really necessarily require a formal review process by the planning board, but we have to make sure that there's proper frontage. Am I correct? And I'm unable to do that as presented. I just wanted to be a little bit more clear before the proponent continues.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Before we move to the final vote, David, I just want to make sure, going back to what Alicia says, although the wetland will not preclude the approval for the ANR, if the lot is not buildable, will that have any kind of bearing going forward or are we able to just approve it as is?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: which it meets the minimum requirements of square footage. I will vote, I'll second the approval of the ANR.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't have any questions other. I mean I don't have any input, other than, are we able to approve them tonight and we have a quorum for the minutes because of fools. Andre LaRose not in attendance. And I just wanted to make sure that we had enough.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll second. This is Jackie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: To be clear, Dover Amendment covers the use of educational, educational uses, correct? Just like I know there's one for specifically for religious uses, like we need a lot. So yes, it's the same thing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Amanda, I'm usually not available on Wednesdays. It's a little bit difficult for me going into, based on what my other commitments are, but I can probably try to move things around for that date, because it'll be easier for me to have October 12th to look at, as opposed to everything else, because this is the Baker-Polito administration's last year, and they are going, we're about to do the one-stop announcements soon, and they're trying to pack it all in in October, November. December, so I don't know when I'll be available.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll give a motion to adjourn, David.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Christie, I'll second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jones here, 40 Cedar Road North. I believe Ryan Hayward should be on the Zoom call. Eastie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Andre, this is Jackie. I present the motion to approve the minutes from December 20th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Andre, this is Jackie. I second the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I wanted to echo your thanks to David for all the work that he put into it. I did look over and I don't really have any objections because it just looks, I mean, all the work that was put into it, he just made it that much better. And it's very clear, the clarity of it, so much so that a couple of things stood out to me. And I'm just wondering if we were to implement this, when do we start? Like for instance, it was just brought to our attention. Unfortunately, Andre, we'll be losing you as chair at the end of your term soon. And I do know that it says going forward, there'll be one year, term for chairs, but it doesn't say what the term is for vice chairs and so forth, so on. So I'm just trying to figure that out in between. It's been an honor to be a vice chair alongside you. But I also want to make sure that we're conforming and giving other people that opportunity. So those are the only questions. It was so good, David, that it got me thinking along those lines of just how we're going to implement it and follow.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I thought that's what I saw. Maybe you struck the language, but I'm almost positive I saw that within the content. but it could have been something you struck out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And even with saying that, I mean, again, with getting a new chair, I'm just wondering, are we going to have like an election, a re-election for vice chair? I just want to make sure that we're going along with what is suggested.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll make that motion. I'll second it, it's Jackie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that's everything on my end. Um, Andre, this is Jackie, I just wanted to clarify on that going back to the zoning map change, Amanda, are you able to give a little bit of specifics about what that zoning change would be for 200 blocks and I'm just a little, I thought that was like a shared space already, like with toughs being there and just like office space. I'm just wondering what that's change would look like. Amanda, do you want me to speak to that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I've never been here before.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have to tell you, I'm not here to receive a plaque tonight. In fact, what I'm here is to commend my fellow elected officials who are leaving their posts. very shortly, Michael Marks and John Falco. I've had the opportunity over the years to work with many fine individuals. And you know, sometimes we agreed and sometimes we didn't. But we always had found some place to have common ground. And I think that's so important in today's world. So I'd like to thank you, Michael, for the years that I served with you. You were such a kid then. were. And john, it was such a pleasure to serve with you for the years to watch you both go on to the city council, and we're going to miss you very very much so thank you so much, and my. The one thing that I think every elected official, whether we agree or disagree, there is a common bond between us, because of the years we've learned. to go out to campaign every two years and to put your families through that. And you both have such wonderful, wonderful families. And it was really pleasure of mine to watch, to know when they were born and to watch them grow, to graduate from high school, to go on to college. And it's really been a pleasure. So thank you both. And George, thank you for your kind words. And thank you. I appreciate it. And I appreciate my fellow Councilors.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, give a hoot was so popular, he tried to take it over.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Thank you so much. One of the problems with masks is nobody can see me smile, and I just want you to know I'm printing ear to ear, so thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, okay, we're back.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just want to bring to the attention just in case somebody wants to let somebody know who's not here. There's a problem with the audio. Comcast is having a problem. Yeah, we're working with that through Medford Community Media. Right. John's on it. And it says that if people want to go, if anybody wants to text friends, they can go to the Medford's YouTube channel to be able to watch the meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to suspend the rules.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, just in response to my colleague, I will tell you that I know that over the years that there's been any number of times where parents have chosen to withdraw their child before an expulsion because they didn't want an expulsion on the record. And so it's a very interesting area, but that could account for some of the differences that have happened in the past. I did want to thank the students who spoke out clearly tonight, and to all of the students who've been articulate during this period of time. I will tell you that as the events unfolded, I did go and have conversations with key people just to make sure I felt comfortable that I knew that our staff was handling it. And I even drove by from a distance when there was a walkout on Friday, observing then the superintendent, Dr. Cushing, and many of our other administrators talking to the groups of students engaged in conversation. and getting the sort of feedback which will only be more helpful to us as we go on. So I appreciate your work, and I appreciate the students coming forth and being active, because that's what it's ultimately going to take for us to improve the current climate. It's been a difficult time for everybody and we are not unique. the sort of issues that we're facing in Medford right now are being faced across the country. And while that in no means makes it okay, I think it's an interesting thing to understand the dynamics of society right now and how they're affecting our kids and why it's so important that we listen to them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We did not. Just prior to my leaving for the meeting, I checked and the only letter I had was from our student, Catherine, which you've all heard now and I sent to you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Just real quickly. So are students being assessed for the family report four times a year? Great. Three times a year. Three, yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is the idea that it might, for those students who haven't achieved fluency, would it ultimately go up to maybe through the third grade or is it, you know, will it grow?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thanks.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sounds good, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, just because I think it's appropriate to ask. So let's take the $50,000 figure. Given our expenditures to date, is it realistic to that we will be able to cover that expense given our budget expenses so far this year? And I guess I'm asking Mr. Murphy that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So I guess my question is, are our expenses running as expected, or are they widely more than we expected? And should we be concerned about spending a significant amount of money? Now, again, part of the problem is it may not be significant. Maybe it's $10,000. Maybe it's $12,000.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. That's exactly what I was hoping you'd say.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, so thank you. I think this sounds like very interesting and challenging work. A couple of questions. First, where were the engagement specialists housed in the schools? Have we found offices for them all? Because I can't believe that wasn't a challenge.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That was actually my second question was, you know, part of this is, is that they have to find their place within the schools, right, and to a point that Mr. Murphy made earlier. Sometimes they've had to be utilized as coverage, but frankly, that sometimes is the time when you really get to see a broad view of students, and this can be very very valuable to whoever works in the school so I actually think, especially at the beginning of the year. That's an asset, even, you know, I understand it's time consuming, but it does allow someone to come in. Now, my other question is so let's suppose said person, one of your reengagement specialist is something that we as adults understand the terminology. What will the kids call these individuals? Where do they fit in there?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess, you know, I'm just thinking for the youngest kids, something like a, helping hand or something. Yeah, you know something, something that something, even a helper I'm a helper that someplace I can just see them being in the school and trying to say, how do they define their place with the title, which is child friendly helper. Anyway, just curious.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just to clarify, so the students were moved, or was this an event where the teacher came in and found the water in the?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: After the evening or weekend?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the students were moved?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then are the ceiling tile has been replaced at this point?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are the kids back in that original classroom? Yes, they're definitely back in there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And this was one classroom at the McGlynn. Is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Three. Three. Three kindergarten classrooms were affected.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So one of the things which I'm just going to comment on is that I feel almost like our rules and regulations about how we address something, I think we're unfortunate in this case because we had a member of the public come up and show some photos, and it says we're not supposed to respond. And yet it was very clear to me that the superintendent had been down, that she knew a lot about this, that you knew a lot about this, but because it says we're not supposed to respond, that family who was sitting here walked away without any answers, just, and we did what we could do. We said we referred it and asked you for information today. To me, there's a process thing, which is difficult for me, only because if we're following our rules, then we're not responding to a person with an immediate concern. And I think it doesn't speak to the strength of the administrative team who knew everything. You could have answered the questions last week with a follow-up today or whatever. But I find that to be, as someone who's been on the committee for a long time, a very difficult place. And I understand we're following procedure. To the end, the only thing I could think of, frankly, to the superintendent is to say, please be more proactive. This was a situation you knew about. It probably should have been in your report, so we could have spoken about it. So if something like that's the thing, the only thing my sort of plea to you is to be, I think you guys did everything right, that you were on top of the situation. But unfortunately, when it was presented, because we were following our rules, it didn't look like you were as on top of the situation as you actually were.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It doesn't, and it never will, because when things happen like that, it's going to be a problem for all of us. But on the other hand, since we did know it was going to be on the agenda, if it had been included In the superintendent's remarks, we could have said, we're going to hold that until later. I mean, frankly, I'm trying to do a workaround around our rule, which makes sense for other reasons, but is sometimes challenging. And I'm not going to be here to do it, but I am saying to my committee members, this is an interesting dilemma.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Because I guarantee you that when there's something like this particular problem, it's going to get to the committee. I mean, it's going to get, you know, it's not a surprise. Sure. And so, and it also leads us to just ask the question right now, is there, are we experiencing, there's always leaks?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are we experiencing anything else that you've got your eye on, that you're concerned about in another?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: In terms of, this seems like possibly this is a roofing issue, is that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Say it again?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is this a roofing?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Specifically, this isn't something which is going to be solved by putting on a new roof. Is this saying we need a new roof?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. All right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just want to go back. In fact, as I recall, as my brain fog lifts, Mia's absolutely right, my colleague, Ms. Mastones, because I do, in fact, remember that we fixed this problem before. And that, you know, that's part of the problem is that we fix problems, and they happen again, and they happen again and with all good intentions that people thought that they got to the root of it the last time we had put together, if we, if we go back at least two, four years when we were doing the. planning over what would infrastructure planning over the next couple of years, what project we would see. At that time, the roofs were on that saying well they probably have a shelf life of another five years or so well that's back for at least four. years, if I recall. So I think that document is one that should surface again. It does exist and that those were items of concern back then. And again, it's difficult because they're big ticket items. Thank you. Member Ruseau.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If I could go just one little part. It's not if a resident has an issue. It's asking the administration that if something like this occurs again, where children are moved out of the classroom because of a major issue like this, that you included in the report of the superintendent. Because I think that's the easiest way to to have it on the agenda.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just would like to ask the administration as to whether a timetable like this is doable, realistic, and what, if not, what would be realistic given the obvious desire of the committee to move the budget discussions up earlier.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You can dial in. Dialing number is 1301-715-8592. Member McLaughlin, could you please take the roll call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So we have six members present and one absent. The mayor is absent this evening and she asked me to chair the meeting. Could you please rise for the salute to the flag? I pledge allegiance to the flag. Thank you. The first item before us is the consent agenda, the approval of bills and payrolls, and the regular school committee meeting minutes of October 18, 2021. Motion to approve.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So on the motion of Member Graham and seconded by Member McLaughlin, all in favor? Aye. Anyone opposed? The motion passes. report of subcommittees. This is the Special Education and Behavioral Health Subcommittee. The report will be given by Member McLaughlin. We do understand that this was a difficult meeting and that other members could not attend. But Melanie, if you could give us a synopsis. Sure, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I would, yeah, so someone let me.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On the motion by Mr. Rousseau to place the file, seconded by Ms. McLaughlin. All in favor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All opposed? The motion passes. Um, could I ever anything?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Public comment on the motion, uh, by member Rousseau to suspend the rules. Do I hear second? Second by member Graham. All in favor. I all opposed. Would you like to come forward, please?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you for letting us know. I just want to, we do have another presentation tonight. by Mr. Chris Richard. Usually those don't take place though till seven o'clock. That was unusual. So can we, are you comfortable with, okay, great. Thank you very much, Mr. Richard. So to a motion to resort back to the regular order of business.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, member motion by member. We're so seconded by member McLaughlin will return to the regular order all in favor. I will return to the regular order of business report of the superintendent number one public health update.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. A report of the superintendent's remarks come first. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, superintendent. Superintendent, could I ask that in the future when we do our agenda, that report of the superintendent, always that the first item be labeled comments from the superintendent or report, just so that it's clear. And I do want to take a minute to say I appreciate the fact that you were one of the panel speakers at our MASC conference. I was able to listen in virtually, And I must say, it made me feel very proud that we were so well represented. So thank you for being there. And I'd like to thank member Rousseau and member Graham for being there and being part of the resolutions committee. So thanks for going down. Okay, the first now, next order of business is our public health update. and we're going to hear from David Murphy and Ms. Hines.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do you have a question, Member McLaughlin? I do. Please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you. Member Ruscio.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Graham?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you very much, Mr. Murphy and Ms. Hines.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I was going to ask Mr. Richards whether you'd like to come up and give your presentation. May I ask for a suspension motion, please?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And may I have a second? Second. All in favor? Aye. All opposed? Motion passes. Before you start, Mr. Richard, I need to read this. Presentations of the public, not to begin before 7 p.m. Regular meetings of the school committee include this presentation of the public agenda item to give any resident the opportunity to place a presentation before the school committee. A resident may only present once at any meeting. These presentations are an opportunity for the public to make a presentation to the committee, but are not opportunities for a dialogue with the committee. If one or more members of the committee wishes to have a conversation about the topic presented, a member may request that the item be added to a subsequent regular meeting. The details for submitting a presentation can be found within the policy BEDH public comments and presentations of the public, which Mr. Richard you clearly did. So, could you please introduce yourself?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Could you please introduce yourself?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And your address, Mr. Richard?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Richard. Given the concerns expressed by this parent, I'm going to ask that our administration follow up with a report back to the school committee at our next regular meeting, which is next Monday. I realize it's very short timetable, but clearly this is significant.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I can't make a motion. I just know I know I'm what you want to make a motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second. So motion by Ms. McLaughlin with the resounding second. All in favor. Aye. All opposed, no. Thank you, Mr. Richard. Thank you. Okay, can I have a motion to resort to the- Motion to revert to the regular order of business. Thank you, and second. Second. All in favor? Aye. All opposed? We'll resort to the regular order of business, which is the superintendent goals for school year 2021-2022. Superintendent Dr. Marice Edouard-Vincent will report now on her evaluation goals for this school year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, superintendent. Do we have any questions for the superintendent? Yeah. Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Would knowledge and practice?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So would you like to lay this on the table until you come back with new wording? How would you like to do?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Member Graham. Was there anybody else who wanted to comment?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So what I'm hearing is that the committee strongly supports the direction that the superintendent has laid out for us and that with the constructive feedback that was given tonight, we'd like you to bring it back to us with some refinements. Is that so?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to lay on the table.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. All in favor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion passes. I should say, all opposed. Anyway, okay, thank you very much, Superintendent. Okay, the next order of business is a school year 21-22 MPS priority capital projects. Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations, David Murphy, will report on specific capital repair projects queued for SY21-22 throughout the district, completed, currently underway, or forthcoming.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Berkshaw?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. Before I go on, I just asked, neither the superintendent nor I received copies of the pictures that Mr. Richard, if one of you could let us have those. Thank you very much. Thank you. The next order of business is Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Family School Partnership Initiative, FSPI. Medford School Committee will entertain a summary and discussion of the themes and findings of the audit report on family and community engagement through the FSPI that was issued in the spring of 2021. And our committee member.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are you amenable?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruseau.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We voted to apply for this?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think we all certainly appreciated that we were going to get an opportunity to only promise it as I read this. There are one or two things that, you know, I read one, the district is putting out tons of communication, too dense, not too way, need to find balance and simplicity, coordinating communication, different methods, platforms can be difficult for administrators. Is anybody remember that we were in the middle of a pandemic and that we were sending out tons of information because there needed to be tons of information sent out? I mean, so there's a couple of these comments that I would, I would step back from and say, let's think about the timing and what are our expectations, and what was the need at the time that need at the time was to get a lot of information out. It was very dense, it was difficult it was so if you think about the number of meetings that we all went to in March alone. with, which was just overwhelming. As one member could say, I can. So, the, we, you know, I think that there was very many positive things about this, I actually think that member grams. request to send it to the subcommittee so that the two now become working together makes sense. But most importantly, Member McLaughlin, if you were willing to check out the date and let us know. Luckily, our next school committee meeting is only just next week, and then we could understand what our date is. So would that be amenable to you?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to table till next week, seconded by, sorry, Member Ruseau.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I heard a motion to lay on the table.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and it- Second. Member Graham, you're seconding the motion. So on the motion, all in favor? Aye. All opposed? Hearing none, the motion is approved. And Member McLaughlin, I do want to express our appreciation for the work that you did on this and for being persistent and bringing it back to us. Thank you very much. Okay, the next order of business is the condolences. The Medford School Committee expresses its sincere condolences to the family of Diane Dello Russo Guida, daughter of the late Mayor Arthur Dello Russo and cousin to former Mayor Frederick Dello Russo Sr. The Medford School Committee expresses its sincere condolences to the family of Maddie McPahn, a Tufts University student and lacrosse player who had a tragic accident and passed away. As Tufts President Anthony Monaco stated, in the face of this painful loss, our hearts go out to Maddie's family and friends. The Medford School Committee expresses its sincere condolences to the family of Jane McDevitt, wife of former Medford High School teacher, James Jack McDevitt. The Medford School Committee expresses its sincere condolences to the family of Chris K. Kuyate, parent of two Medford High School students. And as I think we mentioned last week at our last meeting, many of us had interacted with this remarkable woman. She had, in her very last weeks of life, was busy working on a project with her Girl Scouts and showing them leadership and making them into the next generation of leaders. The Medford School Committee expresses its sincere condolences to the family of Luis Gomez. Mr. Gomez was a special education paraprofessional in project transition program at Medford High School. If you could all stand for a minute of silence. last. Lastly, the next meeting is Monday, November 15. So that's next Monday. And it's here at the city of all chambers. And I'd like to thank you all and motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: stands one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Member McLaughlin, would you please call the roll?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So with five present and two absent, we have a quorum and the meeting can proceed. Madam Superintendent, if I could ask you now to take over.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On page what, Plaza?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are there any other questions from members?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All in favor. I all opposed. Motion passes. Thank you. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Khan, thank you so much for your report and for the dedication of yourself and all the mathematics teachers.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I believe that up next we have Mr. Rocco Sieri from the Science Department. Mr. Sieri, welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Excuse me, first, Member McLaughlin, would you please note that Member Mustone joined the meeting? Yes. Thank you. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: and school to leave us joining us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruscio.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are there any other questions? Member McLaughlin?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just one very quick.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I also ask another question to the chair? Very quickly, Melanie, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But that would also seem to be a topic that could be taken up in the I didn't hear you. It could be taken up in the curriculum.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, if not right at the moment, but yeah, in the in the general meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Anyway, just a suggestion. All right. Thank you very much, Dr. Hayes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you for all the teachers and- Member Van der Kloot?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, we will reconvene in 10 minutes. I'd like a motion for adjournment, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Excuse me, I have two letters from the public that need to be included at this point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry, guys. The first one is from a citizen Justine Deutsch Myers. She says. that she lives at 197 Playstead Road. What, if anything can be done, this is just what we were talking about, within the schools to increase the COVID vaccination rates in the 12 to 15 year old student group and then 16 to 19 year old students. According to the map published by CBS Boston last week, Medford's vaccination rate of 12 to 15 year olds is just 57%, and the rate for 16 to 19 year olds is 60%. Have there been vaccination clinics in the middle schools and MHS for students and or other initiatives to improve on these rates. Have you been collaborating or discussing strategies with other cities and towns nearby that have higher rates of vaccination. Our numbers are lower than neighboring cities and towns in our local region for, for example, 12 to 15 year olds Arlington has 90% Somerville is 83% Malden has 60% Melrose 76% and Medford is down at 57% 1619 year olds again similar. where Medford trails significantly behind the other towns. So again, if you could specifically ask, have we done vaccination clinics and are there any more scheduled? Are they effective? Would be my question to you. Have you reached out? Are there anything else we can learn from other cities who are doing better than we are? And I would add just is, do incentives help at all? I mean, you know, Do you do the, you know, win a gift card or whatever, just that help at all.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, the next letter comes also from the chair.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, that would be great. I do think for parents it's convenient if it's right at the school. So, so the second letter is from citizen Christina McCordy, and she's a 24 North Street. It's multiple questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yep, air quality checks in the school buildings. And she said that we were told that air filters would be replaced often. Can we have an update on this? If the filters are not replaced often, she says the air quality cannot be guaranteed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: She's specifically asking about air filters.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So would they just, I'm asking you, would they be changed around, say, December 1st again?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Quarterly. Maybe you could just give us an update when that happens.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, second question. School staff have ongoing concerns regarding the room temperature in classrooms. Warm classrooms, she says, lead to more improper mask wearing. Also, when you cannot feel the AC, it is hard to know if the air is blowing, which leads to worries about airflow. Work requests have been repeatedly ignored, she says. So please detail what staff need to do to get these concerns addressed, and please make sure it is communicated to all staff.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, number three, many teachers or staff at our school are interested in additional your air purification. The PTO at our school would like to purchase box fans with more 13 filters. They are under $100 each but most of our classroom teachers are interested. Can we request the use of code would bend to put toward this. For equity sake, we would like this offer to all school buildings, our PTO will also put some funds toward this is their formal process to request coded funds.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: With the air testing that we're having done now, if there was such an area, would it automatically be put in?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Fourth and lastly, can we have an update on staffing issues? Are we close to returning to testing twice per week?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I received one more letter, just just as it came in as you were speaking. It says, this is from Ingrid Mercado 131 budget. Hello, I'd like to comment about the idea presented by Mr. Murphy of not having a standing COVID update in the agenda every meeting. My concern about taking it out of the agenda is that the public wouldn't be able to have public participation during the meeting. I think COVID topics are important and the public needs to be able to ask questions and get answers. In my experience, school committee meetings are the only way to get these answers. In the past, I've sent multiple questions to administration and I haven't received answers. She notes nurses at the school level are fantastic and give us great information during our PTO meeting, but sometimes we want answers at the district level.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We can't see it at all, Peter.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Could you just clarify? So the test has already been given to students K to 12?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Did you still have a... No. So it's given at the beginning of the year in October, February and June. Oh, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is a dress code is in the student handbooks, is at least mentioned in the student handbooks. So that would be a starting point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The school committee is supposed to approve the handbooks. So it's just a point of that it's generally been there's been discussions over the dress code for many years at many different times. And I certainly support looking at it and updating it, but it's not like it's never been discussed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, the refinement is that there's always been the understanding that the policy that we approved that the the handbooks and that becomes what you're saying is we don't have a separate one in our policy handbook.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well we're quibbling over it but I'm just mentioning that it's in the handbook.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I think I should probably read them at this point. Is that all right? That's fine. The first one is from Christina McCourty 24 North Street. She writes dear members of the school committee. I'm the parent of two elementary school students and I'm writing with a few questions. One, at this point, is there any evidence that points to possible interschool spread of COVID-19? Watching the COVID tracker there was an increase in positive cases in a couple of buildings, and many of us are wondering if there were multiple cases in the same classroom. Do you want to take this one by one or if we could.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This parent goes on to say, is there any update on when buildings can transition back to testing twice per week? She mentions that she knows the kindergarten students are being tested daily and says if that's happening, she would think we could handle testing all students twice per week. So if you might.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The third part of the email is, some first grade students have begun unmasking in class for phonics lessons. Though this was briefly mentioned in an email communication, no details have been given on what this looks like. We have a right to know what risks our students are taking and which health professionals weighed in on this decision. Going forward, can someone from the district please give a detailed description of unmasked situations that have been deemed to be necessary for instruction? before they happen for the first time. Any unmasking brings risks, and I think families have the right to know of any increased risks they are facing at school so we can reflect on it, ask questions, and determine whether we decide if the risk is acceptable to us. Many students are also anxious about being unmasked indoors, and knowing in advance would give us caretakers the ability to prepare them and discuss it in a safe place.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I'll turn to the next person. This one is Ingrid Moncada 131 virgin have. I have a few questions regarding COVID protocols at MPS, and she writes in parentheses, a comprehensive document with MPS current policies would be ideal, so we'd have to keep asking questions. One, what's the data that supports the decision of testing kindergarten in such a different way than the rest of the students? Why now? Was there evidence of in-school transmissions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, this one touches on what you've just talked about. What's the criteria for quarantining a whole class? Is it because the whole class is considered close contact? How can that happen? How often does that happen? Is it only in kindergarten classes?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Part three, what are the guidelines for students returning to school after being sick at home. I've heard reports of people having to provide proof of coven negative and pay for a private PCR test. before being accepted back in school, and others that are not told anything, and just bring the kids back as soon as they feel better.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The parent goes on to say, has the district or city considered providing free COVID testing for NPS families at schools after hours City Hall or other Medford location. If families are indeed required to provide proof of negative test before returning to school. This would be essential.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you. That's all the letters that I received. on the school committee mailbox.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It was very interesting. A couple questions just sort of in understanding the scope of your work in our district. you've outlined three different areas, which I assume are for all K to 12 teachers?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All K to 12 staff. So like, we don't have that much time for professional development. When are you coming in and how many people are coming in? And if you could just give us an understanding.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess if I could go back, though. Yes. So as you're training the in-district, what is the scope of that work? How many people are you training? How many people are you meeting with?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Just one more question. You say taught in our book, social emotional learning in the classroom. Are those resources that are used, is that something that the school committee can take a look at?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we can go find it in your office, Dr. Cushing. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is it available online?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What I need to know. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I find it a little confusing, actually. Part of it is the wording is presentations of the public. And does the presentation mean a statement or, for instance, a letter?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right now, I have another letter that has been submitted to us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It doesn't have to do with anything particular on our agenda so it wasn't a pub. That's why we did earlier. have a public comment. Um, Mayor Sorry, remember Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So but we've always had an opportunity for people if this person was here. Earlier in the meeting where it used to be, they would It's my fear is that you're cutting out the ability of a person to ask a question, which I understand isn't necessary. Like if I read this letter, I'm not expecting that there's going to be a dialogue, but the person wrote it. And I thought that we did this whole thing about having letters submitted so that people who aren't here, we could read it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So in one hand, you're saying that the goal is to be inclusive and welcoming. And on the other hand, we're saying, but here's someone who's written a letter, but I can't read it. I don't really understand that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I understand that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But this was submitted to the school committee account. My job has been to read the letters that were submitted to the school committee account. This person chose that way rather than writing us individually, which I actually think that there's a benefit from. I understand that there would be no discussion about this, but to not read it, and again, I happen to know what the letter contains. It could be anything. I'm just making a general observation that it seems to me that we've become, with this policy, the well-intended to correct another problem is in fact causing another concern that I am articulating right now. So this person, Monica Rushford, who submitted this letter, is not going to have her letter read tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I make a motion to read the letter.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hello, school committee members. I'm a Medford resident and a parent of Missy Tuck Elementary students. I'm curious whether there will be any kind of acknowledgement or dedication of the new name. I did see the banner on the front of the building. I'd love to know if other signage or explanation of the significance of the name is under consideration. I heard, for example, about a mural on the playground. Would that be the school committee's decision or the school's? Thank you for all the work you do. Sincerely, Monica Rushford.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Very well member of and include needs to present to the school nurse, a physical copy of the PCR test.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Three. There's one on the next page, too. Oh, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, three.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just wanna add, this is really exciting. Thank you for your work. Thank you. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I thought it would make sense to me and yeah, appropriate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, this letter is from Cheryl Rodriguez of 281 Park Street. She writes, hello, I'm writing concerned about the lack of a permanent crossing guard at the intersection of Riverside Ave and Freedom Way. There are three schools that utilize that crosswalk, the McGlynn Elementary and Middle School and the Andrews Middle School. I am grateful that the Medford police cross children there when they can, but understandably, they need to leave it if there is a call leaving no one to cross our children. This is even more urgent as bus 11 formally dropped off at spring street and central lab was canceled for the middle school, and those children now have to walk without benefit of a crossing guard on that very busy street bus 11 was created because there were so many children on bus to that they could accommodate them all. I am unsure of how many children lost bus service with this move. likely inspired by the driver shortages, but the families received no notice and have added to the number of children likely unaccompanied that are crossing at the spot. Please prioritize getting a crossing guard to this location immediately. Thank you, Cheryl Rodriguez.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What are we doing to support that students academics. You know, I understand we have our limits, but it seems like now you know they're out for five days they're out for seven days, what if it's a second grader, what do we do.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think, obviously, you would understand my concern for a student who's come back to school and then all of a sudden is out and might be out again a few weeks later and a few weeks later. So anyway, I think that, you know, I know we've brought in some support people, I think we sometimes may need more, maybe as tutors for students who are out and so I This is something that I think we need to very closely monitor, and I'm most concerned about.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have other questions but I'll yield to my colleagues, they can get an opportunity.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just want to say I'm really glad that the high school testing is being revamped because that was one of my concerns after our visitation so that's good news. The other question I was just curious about is whether it may be too soon, but I'd like to know if what percentage of our, and I'll ask it as high school students but of our high school students are vaccinated do we know at this point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, just to follow up on member credits question, we had received a letter from a parent expressing concern that there were at least three kids in the bathroom when her daughter walked in periodically so you know I know I know it's tough to monitor at all but you know, I just wanted to your attention yeah the high school.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I think we might have all gotten it, but I'll make sure I forward it on to you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, I read the document that member Ruseau provided to us in detail, and as a former representative to with shore. I am very familiar with shore. And in fact, remember, Hank Owen, the director. of many years, very rightly, is a wonderful wonderful person. The question that came to me is that this is basically calling for a fund to be put aside for capital improvements for sure, which makes a great deal of sense, but I didn't see anything addressing the potential for, if by any chance, something should happen to the shore such that it would cease to exist, what would happen of the money? And so there was no, I didn't see any line item which suggested that it would be split back between the districts or anything else like that. And while it is perhaps far-fetched to believe something will happen after the successful run of shore, it seemed to me that some some notation should be made about what would happen to that account in the future if it was not used.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, my suggestion is that simply that should be added to this document. And again, I'm happy to refer it to your attorney as to whether that needs to be or not. But that was my one concern. Otherwise, I would make a motion to support this paper. Second. Motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Should it be a roll call?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think it should be a roll call as regards to finances.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor? Member van de Kloet. I was asked to inquire about this. So the original date that employees were supposed to give you documentation was September 8th, and then it was put off to the 17th. Could you explain why that happened?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think that perhaps the interpretation might have been by some people that it was, oh, people aren't getting their stuff in, so we're giving them extra time, and they're dragging their feet. So I wanted to make it clear that, in fact, we are having great cooperation with our labor units.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, well I think we're all very thankful to our labor units and I'd like to make a motion that the school committee endorse the agreements that were set forth around. Would you say around the mandatory coven 19 testing and proof of vaccination requirements.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, member McLaughlin is next.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: While we're under the topic of transportation, it would seem we received a letter from a member of the public, which would be appropriate to read at this time. Please, thank you. So community member Eleanor Klein wrote us to the school committee account regarding bicycle racks. And she wrote that she wants to draw our attention to the bike racks at the middle and high school. She included some photos of the bike racks, which she says the racks are outdated models and unusable and difficult to use. In addition, they represent a very small percentage of available space dedicated to students alternative non-fossil fuel dependent transportation options. She says she knows that the ones at the high school are frequently filled. I'm sure the bike commission CC here can be valuable resource for ideas. With the partnership connector she writes the opportunities for middle schoolers to bike to school safely will be expanded. In addition, we as a city need to work on ways to encourage more cycling. I would love it if we could start by making sure an ample quantity of usable racks are installed at our middle and high schools. Is there a plan or discussion around bike racks currently in our budget transportation planning? If not, please make sure that this is added to the mix. Thanks very much, Ellery Klein. And I do want to note that Dr. Cushing did respond and is willing to further the conversation and work with whomever he can to make this happen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We're allowed one delegate. Right. Excuse me, Mayor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, we need to nominate our voting delegate in an alternative. And every school committee member is welcome to go. This is just the particular voting portion of the resolutions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I'll still go. I just don't want to be the delegate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so I certainly would support this but I do want to let you know that it isn't the first time that it's been discussed that when we in fact built the new schools there were discussions about accommodating left handed students at that time. It came up again over a period of time. It's one of those things that it's just always good, though, to check on whether they're in the right place at the right time. And do we need more just because of the particular population? And of course, some of the deaths have bit the dust, so to speak. So we might be replacing them. We might have, I don't know, with right-handed deaths rather than left-handed. So I support the resolution. I think that it's appropriate for us so since there is an expenditure potentially for us to get a report back so that we understand what we're asking for in terms of if we have an additional purchase.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So looking at the, I don't know whether Mr. Rousseau who tabulated the responses wants to say anything at this point, but looking it over, I see that my colleagues hold you in the same high esteem that I do. Because as I look over the different scores, all of which are often 3.5 or above with four being the highest, you can see that's truly a remarkable standard. And so that, I think that we all value so much what you set out this year, your achievement in getting kids back to school, holding the safety of our students to the highest level. And I think you should be really proud of yourself.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. First, I did want to thank the team, those who presented yesterday to the City Council. Thank you for representing us so well and answering all the questions that were brought to you last night. I just want to go back to Suzanne. When you were talking about the camp, sort of reintroducing kids back to school and whatever, what are the numbers that you Anticipate, how many kids can you accommodate? I would hope that everybody who wants to go gets to go, but I wanted to understand how you're facing that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hey, Tony, you wrote this article. It's for you. Thank you so much. It's been quite a year. I work with Tony and Lawrence. I followed her in one of the schools, and I followed her here. And I'm so glad I did. We just appreciate all you've done for us. You're always there to answer the phone and guide us through all the complex problems we've had. We really appreciate everything, Tony. We're going to miss you. Thank you for guiding us through a pandemic relentlessly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kathy and I have the honor to present to you from the House of Representatives. Be it hereby known to all, the Massachusetts House of Representatives offers its sincerest congratulations to Toni Wray in recognition of your years of dedicated and outstanding service to the Medford Public Schools. The entire membership extends its very best wishes and expresses the hope for future good fortune and continued success in all endeavors. Given this 14th day of June, 2021 Robert Leo Sean garbled a Christine Barber and Paul Donato Tony, I just want to take a second to say in addition to these words, you have just been invaluable. It is so wonderful to see your entire team here too. And I'd like to express our thanks to every one of you as well, because that's what Tony would want. So Tony, thank you. Thank you so, so much. Thank you for all of your work up to the pandemic. And then thank you for getting us through the pandemic. Tony worked tirelessly. She worked on weekends around the clock to make sure that our students and teachers were safe. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We took a roll call.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Before we do that, after that, as we're taking things out of order, I would ask that we move on to the presentation of the advisory committee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, I am happy to stay here to get to the entire agenda, no matter how late we go. But in the meantime, we have an audience. And we know why they're here. We have an advisory council. We know why that we're here. We've already asked them graciously, not really asked, but They graciously sat here for our wonderful presentation to Toni Wray. We wanna take up our seventh graders and that I think it's only appropriate. I guarantee you to my colleague, we will get to everything on the agenda. No one's gonna rush out of here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. The only thing is, I wondered whether we should specify one, because if there's one or more, or because sometimes if you're putting in one, putting in a second one might not be that. So I don't want to limit it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So this is our rubric, and it was used by our committee to evaluate the names of the submissions. The rubric outlined three different criteria. the potential for the name to bring the community together, two, the potential for the name to stand as a role model for Medford students, and three, the potential for the name to represent Medford community's proud history. Each one of the criteria had a scoring range from one to four, four being the highest a name could receive in any category, and one being the lowest score that a name should have received. Thus, the top score of any one suggestion that they could receive is a 12, and any name with a 12 would be significant to multiple historically marginalized groups and not polarizing, known for exceptional deeds, community involvement, or contribution to society with a historical notable legacy that would last decades, or if it wasn't a person, it would still have historical significance that would last decades. And lastly, if it was a person, They would have lived in Medford with a Medford specific reputation, or if it was not a person, it would have a long standing ties to Medford with a positive history.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Our public participation process. After all of the names were scored, the top scoring 15 names were to move on with the public participation. However, due to a tie, we ended up with a top 17 names to move forward. And then after looking at the list, we realized we had accidentally removed a name that should have been considered. So we therefore added that name on to continue with the process, leaving us with 18 names to present to the public. On May 11th, the committee adopted and formalized a process of how we should receive public input on those 18 names as outlined in a resolution brought forward by Heinrich Ginnies. And a subcommittee was established to create the public input form. And the survey was open for one week to collect written responses for or against any of the 18 names. The survey itself was translated into Spanish, Haitian Creole, Arabic, and Portuguese. There were hard copies also made available at Medford City Hall and the superintendent's office. And overall, the committee received over 1,200 online responses and 39 paper submissions. The top 18 names were also independently researched and rescored by each of the committee members. via the process previously described by the rubric, all 23 members of the advisory committee did this. The scores were then collected, averaged, and ranked as one point for the committee members to consider. The committee then moved forward to reduce the finalists down to the Using an adopted process as outlined and brought forth by Patrick McCabe, the committee started with a list of names in alphabetical order, and if a committee member had stated that that name was their top three, that name would remain in consideration. If no one on the committee said they would include that name in their top three, that name was stricken from the list. This reduced the official list down from 18 to 13 names, And next, every committee member was given up to three minutes to advocate for which nominee or nominees they thought should be sent forward to the school committee based on their own research, the rubric and public input. Each committee member voted for one of the nominees. And after the first round of votes were recorded, only three of the candidates had received a vote. And a motion put forth by Paul Donato Jr. was made that we should just accept those three and send them forth. And that was adopted and the three names that received votes were on the board. And so our first few names that, these three names were Missituk, Jean Barry Sutherland, and Belinda Sutton. The first of the three names here for you tonight is Missituk. The land that the city of Medford sits on was inhabited by the Massachusetts tribe and other Native Americans for thousands of years. The indigenous people that lived on the land called the river Missituk, which means Great Tidal River. As English colonists came to the area, the name of the river was altered in a more familiar English word, Mystic. The river has been very important throughout the history of Medford, and it was used for fishing and for water by the indigenous tribe, and then by the colonists, and it also became essential for trade. It became a subject of poems, such as, Over the River and Through the Wood, and Paul Revere's Ride. This river has been a source of community pride for centuries. The Missituk River, as previously mentioned, has been bringing people together. It was a source of the food and water for indigenous tribes and the first colonists. It then became a place that allowed Medford to take part in trade industry, being a port and preparing goods to ship out and even building ships. The city of Medford grew because of the Mistook River. And today, the river is used for walking, hiking, boating, fishing, and other various community events. There is a widespread effort underway to continue to work to restore the river and the land surrounding it. And by using the Native American name, Misutuk, we are taking time to honor those who had originally inhabited these lands and taking a step to acknowledge the past and as we do this, stepping into the future. These are just three responses that we received from the community input survey. There were so many wonderful responses. And even though that this was not a vote, all of these responses were used and considered and provided the committee wonderful information into getting us to these final three names. These three quotes here really exemplified why Missittook is a positive influence, not only for the city and for the students of the school, but also for the rest of the children in the community. Some of the feedback expressed that it was a reflection of the river and how the river has been a focal point for our community for centuries. People also shared that it acknowledged the native people for who originally inhabited this land. And it also provided a physical connection between our past and our present. It was also shared that people liked it because it wasn't a single person. but rather it celebrated a shared space and an aspect of a physical environment. And lastly, Missittook represents Medford's proud history. As previously mentioned, the Missittook has been here long before Medford has even existed. The Missittook watershed was home to the indigenous people of Massachusetts prior to colonization of the area by the Europeans. The name may have morphed into Mystic, but it does not diminish the role or the value of the Missitook River and what it has played in building Medford by providing resources of not only food, but also trade. The river powered tide mills that allowed for the process of corn, tobacco, textiles, and wood. It was the home of the first bridge over the river, allowing the city to play a key part in the founding of this nation. The river is also the subject of well-known poems and stories. And while the river may now be known as Mystic, the name Mistituk gives nod to those who came before us, honoring them and acknowledging their language and homelands. It's a reminder that Medford's history didn't start when the Europeans came here. It began long before the first boats arrived.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so at the present the 27 letters have ballooned over 40. So I'm going to I'm going to condense them where appropriate. first from, and I'm starting from the ones that, the first one that came in was from Carrie Parker of 6 Hurlcross Ave. She said, I am writing to you because I want to support the renaming of the Columbus Elementary School at tonight's school committee meeting. The school committee set up a transparent process carefully naming the committee, and the committee did extensive work to identify three possible names that reflect Medford. They are inclusive, positive, and anti-racist. I am proud that Medford is taking a step forward. and look forward to seeing the committee's work completed. That's Carrie Parker, 6 Earlcroft. The next one is April Evans of 46 Brewster, April Evans and David Douglas. And they too support the renaming effort. They do not specify, neither letter specifies the preference and choice. The third letter is from Lizzie Wyatt of 134 Auburn Street. She has two children who attend the Columbus Elementary. She strongly supports the Columbus School renaming and she would prefer the Belinda Sutton School. I deeply appreciate that we have the opportunity to honor a former slave who represents an important part of the history of our community. So thank you for the opportunity to offer these comments. The next one is from Michael Glenn. I like the idea of changing the school's name. I support Jean Barry Southerland. And I'll do one more right now. My name is from Julie Bogart and I live at 132 Auburn Street. My daughter is currently a first grader and my son will start kindergarten there. I am writing to express my strong support of the current effort to rename the Columbus. I urge the committee to consider Belinda Sutton as the new school name. because I can't think of a better way to both honor Medford's often unrecognized history and celebrate the diversity of our community. Thank you for your efforts. Best, Julie Bogart. So those are the first five that I'll read right now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. The next one is from Dana McNamee, 173 High Street. I support the name change to a positive, inclusive, and anti-racist name, Dana-Mae. Then from Steven Daly of 132 Auburn Street, I have two children who will attend the Columbus Elementary School. My oldest child is in first grade and my youngest is a kindergartner. I wish to fully support the Columbus Elementary renaming. I strongly support the changing the name to Belinda Sutton School. And, should I do one more?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Next letter I received was from Ellery Klein. Please know that I am supporting you tonight as you face a contentious meeting regarding the school name change for the Columbus Elementary. I would like to just offer one thought. A friend of color told me she felt that naming the school after an enslaved person, Belinda Sutton, was not inspiring for the kids of color in the building. While I initially liked the story as Mrs. Sutton used her obviously strong powers of persuasive writing and the US justice system of the time to earn her freedom and a recompense for her experience of one of the worst injustices a human being can face and hopefully went on to a better life and freedom, I was willing to hear and absorb this perspective from my friend. While I do think it shows agency and power on the part of Miss Sutton, and one could argue that Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman were also enslaved, yet nevertheless, inspiring fears, I do want to make sure that we have heard from enough voices of color to feel comfortable choosing Belinda Sutton as the name should we choose to do so. If the voices in support of the beloved Medford-educated Jean Barry Sutherland are still unanimous and no hidden secrets have emerged, I also think this is a fine choice. However, I would urge the mayor to set firm guidelines, which we have. I fully remain in support of the name change of the Columbus to one that is more in line with justice, freedom, hope, and kindness. Regards, Ellery Klein. The next letter is from Jen Lewis, in support of Miss attack. I'm writing in support of the name miss attack for our self Medford elementary school, the school students voted for the name and their input is significant. I appreciate the name will recognize and honor the people so lived here for hundreds of years, and encourage all students to residents to learn more about their rich history in the theater community to which I belong over the last few years. We have begun each performance with a land acknowledgement, recognizing the often forgotten people who lived here before European colonization. Jen Lewis, 20 Russell Street. Talia Andrea Lata, and I'm sorry if I'm butchering any names, from the 75 Lawrence Road. I am writing to express my strong support for the name of the Columbus School. This is a symbolic decision that the Medford School Committee must make in order to express commitment to anti-racism and equitable education in our public schools. The next one, Columbus name change from Carlene McGorty, 19 Austin Terrace. I'm writing to express my hope that you vote on the name change today and end this turmoil. It is the right thing to do. Personally, I liked the name Lydia Maria Childs. However, now I think the name should not be a person. I wish South Medford Elementary School had been a suggestion, as there is no room for dispute over that one. Of the choices, I think Missituk would be a good name. I heard Missituk won the student vote, which should count for something. It honors our Native American history and our location. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Some of you may recall, I am Native American and I am Southern Italian. I'm an Italian immigrant. My dad, I like to say, came to this country with lint in his pocket and a recipe for rock soup.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So that is my background.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. So these are emails that have been received into the school committee account that I am reading for the record. I am shortening them because of the pure numbers. Sarah Florence, 35 Sagamore Ave, in support of the name change. She prefers Belinda Sutton. Talk about persevering despite having the odds stacked against you. Our miss attack, no future worries about naming the school after a person who turns out to be less than perfect. The next one is by Matt Weyant, W-E-Y-A-N-T of 134 Auburn Street. I strongly support the proposed. I'm sorry, I didn't hear what the comment was. It's 134. 134 Weyant Street. I strongly support the proposal to change the school's name to the Belinda Sutton School. Michael Denton, One Bellevue Terrace. All three choices are fine, Missittook, Sutton, Sutherland. I would, however, offer the following for your consideration. Of the three choices, Missittook would serve as an ongoing acknowledgement of the indigenous people for whom this land was stolen. in the grand scheme of thing that represents a small step, but a step nonetheless toward healing. Another of the choices has been Linda Sutton would serve as an ongoing acknowledgement of the black people who were kidnapped from their homes in Africa and forcibly brought to the country and made to work as slaves. Your third choice, Jean Barry Sutherland would honor the first principal of the school and a person who had a big impact on a number of lives. On the surface, it seems like a fine choice, However, given the larger historical, cultural, and societal context in which we are living, it would also be a choice that serves to reinforce the status quo. I imagine some might be thinking that choosing the name after Jean Barry Sutherland would be a good compromise name because she was a great educator who impacted a lot of our lives. But please remember this, it's never been more clear than it has over the past five years that this country needs healing. Shall I go on to a different? Okay, we've got people standing. Yes, yeah, we'll take, and then we have, and then we're gonna go to virtually. Hello, hello.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll continue with reading letters that came in. From Barry Ingbar of 9 Draper Street, he writes, I support a new name for the Columbus School that is positive, inclusive, and anti-racist. Terry Biscardi of 28th 9th Street says, I am okay with all three options. I am thankful for changing the name Columbus School. Maura Albert of Arlington, we'll skip. Lisa Eichel says of 19 Dearborn Street, I think it would be a wonderful to rename the Columbus School and hope you'll vote tonight to make this change. We should have a name that all of the community is comfortable with, not just some. Maggie Petillo of 32 Irving Street says, just wanted to thank school committee and show my support for renaming. We want an inclusive anti-racist and progressive name. Katie Ryan writes, Katie Ryan of 15 Canal Street says, I write to you tonight for the last time to urge you to be strong tonight and to stick to your morals and what you know is right, even in the face of hatred, even when people don't actually know you, disparage you, and accuse you of character traits and political agendas that you do not have. I am able to write you because I was a recipient of special education services when I was a child in the 1980s and 1990s. When the Columbus Elementary School was first named, I would not have been able to attend it, and neither would many of my friends and loved ones. I am glad that progress meant I would be included in schools, even though when kids with disabilities first went to public schools, people didn't like it. Today, disabled people are included because people fought for change and fought for equality. People change, times change, and we see positive progress. Thank you very much. Mimi Oliver writes, I strongly support changing the Columbus School. Name does not name a particular person. Katie Lagusa of 93 Gaskin says, I'm writing in support of changing the name of the Columbus School. So Columbus Day and all of the family emphasis on Columbus Day that followed is related to my family history. My dad's family immigrated from Sicily and faced discrimination here in the U.S. My understanding is that Columbus Day was created in part as a way to uplift Italian heritage in the U.S. and to ease tensions between the U.S. and Italy. Columbus was one of the many people who changed the world through colonialism and capitalism. All students should learn about him and the truly new interconnected world he helped to bring about as they study history. but I do not want my children to have to extend a school named after someone who represents the beginning of an era of mass exploitation. What is the holdup? I love the idea of naming our school after a local courageous and creative person. Lisa Foss of 78 Sagamore Ave says, while I understand that when the Columbus School was named, the name was chosen with the best intentions and I believe that should be remembered. However, as we become more aware of how we have neglected to meet the needs of everyone in our community, I truly believe it is time to change the name. Diane Bellinger writes, I am writing in support of changing the name of the Columbus School to something more positive, inclusive, and anti-racist. I stand with the children of the Columbus who chose Missitook or Belinda Sutton as the new name for their school. Teresa Racicot of One Bellevue Terrace writes, The three names you were voting on are all fine choices, but two of the names show conscious thought of Medford moving towards a more inclusive and anti-racist future. When we think of the horrendous acts of genocide, renaming the school to honor either the indigenous name, this area, or to honor a black woman enslaved at the royal house, who was the first African to ask for reparations. Clearly one can see that either name is a good choice towards healing. I hope that you vote for one of these. This is my ask. That's Teresa. T. Stash, this message is to support the name change of the Columbus School. I believe the name should be new, inclusive, positive, and anti-racist. She's of 7 Wildwood Road. There weren't more.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, sorry, how many devices? From Tamara Morrow of 7 Wildwood Road. The message is to support the name change of the Columbus School. I believe the name should be new, inclusive, positive, and anti-racist. Lauren Zawanda of 14 Webster Street. I support the Columbus name change. I want something positive, inclusive for all of our children. Seth Hill we heard from. Kate Elwell, my name, is Kate Elwell, and I live at 55 Windsor Road. My children will be starting kindergarten at the formerly Columbus School. I support renaming the school. I like all three choices. Julia Roberts, again, supports any of the choices, just would like to change. That's 254 Arlington Street. Jennifer Yanko. I support the change of the Columbus School. and does not specify which of the names. Jessica Farrell. My preference among the names is the one the student survey showed most support for, Missituk. Monica Rushford of 44 West Street. I urge you to adopt a new inclusive positive name, anti-racist name at tonight's meeting. The time is now. Christine, sorry, Wendy Cliggett. of 7 West Street. This is a longer one. It is my hope that the school committee will choose the name Mistah, the Native American word for the Mystic River, meaning the great tidal river. It is the backbone of Medford and what binds us as a community. People originally settled here because of the river. Over the years, it was misused, polluted, and neglected. Many did not realized that the river was polluted due to its beauty and seemingly healthy flow. Raw sewage was expelled into the river. And she goes on speaking about the river. Mrs. Tuck reminds us of those who came before us and our obligation to respect our city's lifeblood and our planet. It would be naming the school for our river is symbolic of the common bonds that flow through our city. That was Wendy. Then this is Christina McGuarty. Thank you for continuing to work toward getting a new name for the Columbus School. The children at CES voted, and Misato came in first, Belinda Sutton second, and Jean Barrett came in third. I think it's important that everyone knows how they voted. Many adults have made this issue so divisive over the last year and they see the names as choosing sides. I think we owe it to the kids to take their thoughts into consideration. I also think Mr. Tuck best addresses the request of many of the teachers at the Columbus Elementary School to have a name that wasn't in honor of an individual and to not make anyone feel left out. Lisa Hodson, I live on Lyman Avenue. Oh, she spoke, sorry. Jen Lewis. Oh, sorry, that was about the, she supports the electric car charging. Ingrid Moncada. Has her kids in the Columbus School. I feel very grateful that the name is going to be changed. When I listened to the letter that the Columbus teachers wrote to the committee, I found myself in complete agreement. In the letter, they point out that renaming the school with the name of a place rather than a person is a more neutral option. Therefore, I'm writing in support of the name, Missituk. Jen Zawadsas, 20 Corrine Road, that's Z-A-W-A-D-Z-K-A-S, sorry for the mispronunciation. I would like to end my voice to support Mr. Orr Sutton. Scott Sitaki, 131 Budget Ave, Burgett Ave in Medford. Please note that how many people talk in favor of the name tonight's student effective results, community participation is not a vote. We just received And the last one that I have right now is from Jack McGoldrick, father of third grader, Ethan McGoldrick of the Columbus. I hear the children of the school have chosen either the name Missituk in honor of the Native American tribe or Belinda Sutton in honor of the woman who helped initiate an end to slavery in the area. I think those are great names and I stand behind the children's choices 100%. Please add my vote alongside theirs.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: 30 seconds.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, wait, I now have two more letters. Okay, I'm going to let Mr. Puccio.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so I received two more letters. One was from Michelle Chiccolo and she had sent the school committee actually a letter earlier about reaching out to the Mass Center for Native American Awareness just to get a clarification about the using of indigenous names. As we heard clarified before, that has to do with using names for sports teams and they would, would not see the are using of Misita in a negative light. So just a clarification there. And then we had Jeremy Raeland from Brewster Road and a parent of a second grader at a Columbus. I agree with the students. Let's show how the democratic process works and go with the name they chose, Misita. Thank you, member VanderKloof.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I make a motion, Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I make a motion that we each state our first choice as a straw poll to see where we all are right now? Mia, I would rather, I would like to be able to make a statement. Sure. If you want to change your motion that we each make a statement. You can make a statement if you'd like to make a statement. Mayor. Sure. Point of clarification, point of information. Is public comment complete now? I just want to be clear about whether the public can continue to participate or if they cannot.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There's a member here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are we closing public participation? I don't want to speak until we do. Okay, nobody. Is there a motion? I make a motion to close public participation at this time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll turn it over to you. Okay. So I'm going to address several things as I speak tonight, things that really need to be talked about. I want to tell you that I really haven't felt this nervous coming to a school committee meeting, and that makes me incredibly sad. This whole divisiveness in our community makes me incredibly sad. And it's been really, really tough. But I looked out here and I felt better when I came in because I said, oh, wait, why was I nervous? These are, I know these people. These are my friends. These are my neighbors. These are the person who walks down my street. I know these people. But yet sometimes during the course of this evening, I've not been feeling very happy. I know you mean to support each other by the calls and cat calls and whatever, but that's not what we're about. What we are about is that we've got three great names before us and we're making a very difficult change for some. And that for me is extremely important because I have to be true to myself and people, there will be, no matter what I do, there will be people who are going to be unhappy with my decision or my colleagues' decisions. I ask you, by the way, don't, after I speak, Don't clap or catcall and don't do the same for them either. Let us have an intelligent discussion now. You may disagree with us, but I have to tell you, everyone is coming here after giving so much thought and so much pain. I listened to, after when we brought out this discussion, one of the biggest things that that is motivating me for my discussion is hearing some of the portion of our community who felt disenfranchised by our removing the name Columbus. I voted to remove the name Columbus because I thought it was the right thing to do, but I heard pain in people speaking. And I very much recognize that. and appreciate that. By the way, before I go on, I do want to call out to the advisory committee. I thank you and appreciate the work that you did. did we know how incredibly difficult we were going to put you into a particular circumstance? I didn't agree with all of you of what you said when I got to watch pieces of it, but I certainly understood and appreciated the commitment. And frankly, I felt kind of sorry for you at times when you got to the wordsmithing part. And then the other part that was very amusing was when you were talking about the school committee, it was this bunch of overs, what were we going to do? So I just mentioned that. But anyway, um, My long-term here on the school committee means that there were names who were on the list who didn't make it in to even that list of whatever it was, 17 or 18 people. Tony Lucci, my God, what a guy he was. He owned the sports store. He loved kids. He gave every kid, if they needed some free shoes or something like that. Now we have recognized Tony. We put his name up on the corner, but he's a guy who was terrific. Miriam Morrissey, another fabulous educator, a person in our community, sister of Amelia Earhart, but someone who really stayed and worked in our community. I didn't get to meet Alphonse Fresa, but he was the editor of the Medford Mercury, and they used to call him Mr. Medford. If we were doing this years ago, his name would have been at the top of the list. Ray Murano was superintendent of schools, and there were others. You know, part of the interesting thing about this is what we remember. Where are we calling? Now, I have an advantage over some of my committee members because I knew Jean Barry Sutherland personally. I knew her well. And so I have that advantage. When I think about the others and people have said, do the right thing, but of course, do the right thing means something different to each one of us. So it's like, do the right thing, do the right thing, but we're interpreting that in different ways. For me, I'm being true to what I've said and true to myself. I think Belinda Sutton's story is amazing. And I want to celebrate her in Medford, not at the Royal House, but someplace else. I don't have authority to name other things in the city, but maybe when we look, the Belinda Sutton community room at the new library, the Belinda Sutton something, I think that we can, what we have learned about her in this process is extraordinary. And there's appreciation from everybody of saying, yeah, wow, I didn't know that. By the way, our kids do get to go to the royal house in fifth grade, and they do learn about Belinda Sutton at that time. Just wanted you to know that. They do, it's there. So maybe they don't remember it, but it's there. Missituk, I also totally appreciate the name and the origin. I walk next to the Mystic River every single day. As I look at that, The biggest concern for me is in fact, the students who had the poll. Mr. Tuck got 107 votes. Jean Barry got 84. Belinda Sutton got 86. So if I look at 84 and 86, that's 170. So then there is, you know, it was a three-way vote. It wasn't a two-way vote. Now, of course, democratically, if it's, you know, whoever gets the highest vote, I am stuck with that because I wonder if Jean Barry would be saying, go with the kids. And that's my only problem. But I knew Jean Barry. I knew her when she was selected to represent Medford in Nobioka, okay? That was an incredible honor. Two educators were going off to represent Medford in our sister city of Japan. And for years, we also had students who were selected, the highest students who got to go and visit Nobioka, our sister city, and in return, they came here. Jean was the first one who got to go. It was fabulous. I knew Jean when she was a teacher at the Dane, and I knew Jean when she welcomed me into the Columbus School. And she said, as she looked around her classroom, her school, as she toured me, and she said, look at this, isn't this great? Look how many students we have from all different countries and all different places. Jean Barry always had a smile across her face. She was inclusive. She was involved. You can't really say a bad thing about Jean. Someone said it. I'm lucky. I knew her. I wish everybody knew her. She has been at the school. There is a tribute to Jean Barry at the school and has been since her death with the sign saying Jean Barry. That happened because she was so valued. And when she died, man, it was awfully hard. I remember how many people were crying. It was such a loss in our community. So I'm gonna support, that would be my first choice, would be Jean Barry. I don't want you to clap or anything else like that because you agree with me, okay? Unfortunately, sometimes in here, there's a feeling that it's been divisive. Jean Barry was an educator. As I pick an educator as a member of the school committee, I am upholding every educator that we have had in this community. Every teacher, every principal, every superintendent, everybody who has committed themselves to education, to me, we can look and we can say to the kids, education is so important. that this community recognizes an educator on the name of one of our buildings. That is the perspective that I come from and that I bring. I think that the other names are fantastic. I hope we utilize them in our community in a different way. One last thing. I take exception. to the person and the commentary that has happened that has said this school committee didn't function about our education. We only worried about this. I need to say this to you as someone who has been on the school committee for many, many years. This school committee worked hard This school committee, yes, we had this. It was at the right time and we could debate that till we were blue in the face. We don't need to go there. But what we do need to let you know is in the month of March, this school committee had 23 meetings. Earlier, when we started out, we took Toni Wray, our nurse, and we held her up because she's been such an incredible force. This school committee, our administrative people, our school committee members, we're not looking for your praise, but to sit here and hear you say you didn't care about our kids is simply wrong. And if I don't say it, okay, I cannot live with the feeling of just sort of sitting here and nodding my head and saying, oh, yeah, right. That was true. That wasn't true. We worked damn hard.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess I'm just, I wasn't sure of the process. If we're all making a statement, is that a straw poll? If you don't want to make a statement, we can do a roll call, but you just need a motion on the floor. Well, probably just saying a name probably doesn't give people an understanding of where I was coming from. So like everyone else, this has been a challenging year, and I'm glad we're here tonight to move forward. They are three great names. saw Lewin Topper at our son's baseball game the other day and we had a conversation about it. You might remember that a few months back the school was originally or the school was originally in the mystic a few months back I made a motion to just let's return to the name of the original school that did not move forward. I still think Mystic made the most sense, but now we're at this point and I do think the Mississippi Tech makes the most sense that it is something that is all-encompassing because it is more about geography and that the students are all very supportive of it. And I do want to say I did not know Unfortunately, I did not know Miss Jean Barry Sutherland. I didn't have the opportunity and hearing her sister speak made me wish I had the opportunity to meet her. And I appreciate her husband being here. And I, my heart goes out to them for someone who's, you've lost someone so young, but I do want to say that I think for the community moving forward, I think the river is something that is, that is connected to all of us here and that I wasn't going to share this story because you never know how people take it. My father He grew up in Ireland, but always driving up Fulton Street. I grew up at 350 Fulton Street, and my father always going up the hill, he would say, you know, Mia, long before us, there were Native Americans who walked up Fulton Street. It wasn't called Fulton Street, obviously, but to Wright's Pond, and that's where they got their water. And as a kid, it never really registered with me that there were people here before us. And now it kind of came full circle for me that this is an opportunity to recognize the Native Americans and the tribes that were here. before us, long before us. So I appreciate all the community. I've had a lot of great conversations, a lot of great email exchanges. And I, I feel like I do have a piece about us that we are moving forward in that we can all work together to make Medford inclusive and welcoming for everybody. So thank you. Thank you. Member Mustone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The appropriate way to do it, Mayor, would be to have us each state, I mean, like, that's the name probably that we would go for. I did receive another, I was distracted only because I saw another letter came in. But we closed...
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Yep.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jean Barry Sutherland.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I make a friendly amendment if...
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, who are working and then all of a sudden now there's another I mean, you know, so part of me is saying, it seems like would also be incumbent on us. And we might have to speak to Megan fiddler carry about this to also be able to provide some sort of daycare options on those unusual holidays. We're not a majority of the kids. you know, like let's Christmas, people are going to be off, but all of a sudden I'm concerned about these, especially when they're floating holidays. Um, so I, I think that has to be now foremost on our mind if we adopt this. Um, so anyway, just my thoughts.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, but you see, one of the other things I have a concern about is if we're and you know, I absolutely understand why we should. But if we're elongating the school year, then all of a sudden we're elongating because we're also going to observe Juneteenth. And so there's the potential then that you know, because we've elongated now, like this year, it doesn't matter because school is over before Juneteenth. So, you know, it's just, I can't help but be concerned because I know in the years when all of a sudden, and Kathy mentioned school finished, you know, the 28th or 29th, it's awful. And so that's my biggest concern with this. Again, I didn't look, you say that you've worked it out for, 21, 22, 22, 23, which? This won't start until 22, 23. And it worked out that year okay?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: we used to call community participation and say, I just want to bring to your notice that there's a movie night at the Columbus and we'd like you to come.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But that's, you know, I think that's actually newer because we used to do community participation and someone could get up. Now, they were always supposed to, the old rule was you were always supposed to inform the, superintendent's office on the Wednesday before. But frankly, that often is difficult for people who just want to get up and say, hey, know so so here um every any presentation that someone wants to do will go through the superintendent's office right is what you're saying for which is a current policy we don't follow people can speak on a community item but they can't get up in community participation and just say anything um I mean, sometimes what we always used to just sort of, but the person would say to a committee member, um, uh, I want to speak on this. And usually, um, then we would ask the chair, whether we could, whether it was permissible mayor. Yeah. So you don't want to do that at all.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But I guess what I'm trying to do, Paul, is I appreciate what you're trying to say is it's the law. I'm also trying to, and part of this is conjecture, trying to say, hey, how are we being realistic because somebody like the PAC would like to come forward and say, hey, we've got a PAC meeting on next Wednesday and we'd really like you to attend.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: In her report, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I may be trying to, it's late and I may be trying to come up with too many.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May I ask a question? Did you, when passed our attorney, the section on appealing and authority determination,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The superintendent may seek advice from the district council about whether to proceed with the following appeals process. Should the council determine that a presentation cannot proceed, the presenter will be informed. The appeal will be placed in the next scheduled regular meeting of the school committee under the president. So I just want to know, usually I would have run something like that by Howard.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'd like to amend the motion. Is there a motion for approval on this?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor? Member van der Kloof. I don't understand the, where, how the flexibility of the meeting and the superintendent can start the meeting at different times. I truly just think that makes it more complicated. I think that, um, I think we were trying to come up with a standard. We start at 6 30 when it's a regular school committee meeting. Um, So I'm a little mystified how that works. I'm also mystified because the report of the superintendent, that's the funny part, because for me, that's always like, to me, that's been, okay, that's the most important thing. That's the meat of the, that's, you know, so it's funny to me, the presentations of public, the resolutions, you know, I'm a little mystified. It might work and I'm just not seeing it. Oh, the other thing is at the consent agenda, I think, but I'm not sure, but I'm gonna ask Mr. Murphy this. I thought that if it had to do with finances, like the approval of payrolls or the approval of bills, those two things have to be roll call votes. Is that correct or not?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, OK. So you'll roll call vote it all as a group?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And it'll include all of those things?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Can we do that? Again, I just don't know, because we've always done those things separately.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But if someone gives us a donation and it's financial, we have to do a roll call vote.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We've just always done it. And I was told we had to do it. Now, whether that's true or not, I don't know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so you would say this paragraph, consent agenda, and including the approval of payrolls and the approval of bills, that's all okay?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't think we have anything that says no.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can this and our start time of 6.30 work together?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm asking the committee members. I'm asking the committee members.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I'm saying that we have, that we start the roll call for attendance of members at 6.30. Oh, okay, sorry. And the consent agenda, and that's done all before, and the report of the superintendent. But again, to me, that those things can all proceed at 6.30. So, and the only thing that you want to make sure that we don't start before seven is the presentations of the public.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruseau.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All I want to understand is what time is the meeting going to start?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: She stepped out. She stepped out for a second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So it was six in the affirmative and one stepped out. Superintendent, now it's time for your report, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure, community participation. Any citizen in the audience may be given permission to speak once at school committee meetings regarding any item on the agenda for up to three minutes on any one item. A community participation portion of the agenda will be established which will give any citizen the privilege of placing any item before the school committee to be heard on any item. Any item to be presented must be submitted in writing to the superintendent of schools by the Wednesday noon prior to the scheduled meeting with a maximum of five minutes allowed for any one presentation. Public participation emails, questions or comments can be submitted during the meeting by emailing medfordsc at medford.k12.ma.us. Those submitting must include the following information. One, your name and last name. Two, your Medford street address. Three, your question or comment. Now, number eight, number one, superintendent's updates and comments.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I make a motion that we do it on Thursday, June 24. Second. Roll call, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Point of clarification? Does this include then both breakfast and lunch?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And what is the approximate cost that we should anticipate?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But is it so so Paul, obviously, this is a good. good thing that we want to do. I think it's incumbent on us to understand what the cost and impact will be.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we have a, look, nobody wants to vote against this resolution. Nobody does. I certainly think it's in with my purview to ask a question about what is the financial impact. I need to know that. We need to know that. And so the question is if we're going to move on this, because we've done some other things in our budget, all things that we want to keep, You know, obviously, if there's ESSER funding for next year, that would be great. I don't know whether, you know, would this come under ESSER funding? May I ask Mr. Murphy if he would know the answer to that? You can say no.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, did anybody say motion to approve?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the question is, if we vote for this, it just says we're going to do it. And I'm asking, but what's the impact? I mean, I don't want to vote against this. It's the right thing to do. On the other hand, we do have some families who can afford it, but I understand what you're saying, Paul. So there's already three members listed here. So, you know, just call it. I'm not used to voting on something which I don't understand how we're going to fund. So when we have that meeting next week on the 24th, which is a budget meeting, can we have a report back on this so we know how we're going to fund it? Because what I'm thinking is we've just shown that we're going to be $700,000 approximately, shorter of what we requested. And now this is potentially another, shall I say, $750,000.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Go ahead. So with that explanation, I think it's okay to pass this resolution.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. So Superintendent Marisa Edward-Vincent, I think that you continue to do an exceptional job under the most difficult of circumstances this year. At every turn, I think that you've certainly displayed an incredible commitment to your role, to being available to us, to the community, to the kids at every turn. As the four standards are outlined, I think that you have met them all and done an exemplary job. So I thank you and I look forward to your continued leadership in our community.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's One question? Yes, Member Van der Kloot. Is the meeting that we're going to have to confirm the budget a committee of the whole, or are we going to add a regular meeting? What does it have to be?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member McLaughlin, could you repeat it? We were just trying to figure out the scheduling, so I missed what you said.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So no more the week of June 27th?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot. So I think that what we're thinking, but if we could just look and determine when we think the special meeting would be, what is the latest that the city council can give us the budget It's usually, I know it has to be done by the 30th, right? Their last Tuesday meeting is the 29th of June. So does that mean that we are going to, our special meeting will be held on the 30th? Just in case, I mean, if they have to, if they go all the way to the 29th to confirm the budget, then it would suggest that our special meeting would be on the 30th. Is that correct? I really need to set the date so I know what, you know, if we do it the previous week, we might not yet have the budget from the City Council. Is that correct? That's correct. All right. So therefore, I make a motion. that the special meeting be held on Wednesday, June 30th? Is that? Second. Superintendent, is that a date?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we think that the city council might be done sooner so we could do it on Monday the 28th?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The truth of the matter is we never had a final approval meeting. What happened was we submitted it. We always understood that the city council has never declined the amount that we submitted. So this is something new that we're doing this year. You know, it's difficult because if they go all the way to the end, you know, we can't really, if they haven't voted the budget, how can we accept it? This really is a question I think Mr. Murphy might have to weigh into since he was the one who suggested, because otherwise I'd say let's do the meeting on Monday the 28th. Right, I agree. Which would be far, far preferable. And if you go to July 1st, it's the beginning of the 4th of July weekend.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And yeah, so once we get that, I would actually suggest otherwise that we look at Monday the 28th. So let's put a hold on Monday the 28th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I'd have to do a leader's time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I did want to read, I thought I saw him here earlier, so I thought he might chime in, but I do want to read a letter that we received for the committee of the whole. Dear members of the school committee, I'm writing to express my utmost appreciation and support for Dr. Marice Edouard-Vincent. The courage and grace that she has displayed over the past year is truly remarkable. The city is blessed to have her leading our school system. I am sure that the members of this committee feel the same. I look forward to many more years with Dr. Edouard-Vincent at the helm. Respectfully, Sean M. Began, Esquire, Zero Governors Ave, Medford, Mass. Wonderful.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's red, is that correct? If it's red, then yep, you're on. Okay, so I received three emails regarding the start time of our school committee meetings. They were from Eunice Brown of 48 Greenleaf Ave., Rick Orlando from 13 Winford Way, and Ron and Janice Martinetti of 126 Lincoln Road. Each of the writers asked us to start to resume the original 7 p.m. start date. Mayor, is it allowable for me to just condense these or do I need to read I think if they all are the same subject matter, you can give us a general outline. So the request on all of them is to resume the original 7 PM start date for all our school committee meetings. And part of this is that now that we're back to chambers for people who want to come up in person, it's easier for people to attend. Eunice Brown also asked that any subcommittee meetings also start at this time when a regular meeting does not occur. So if one was before a meeting, I think that it sounds like she understands that would be at a different time. Anyway, the people spoke to the fact that they want to be able to participate and that the earlier start times makes it difficult for them to do so. So that is a summation of those three letters.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I speak to this for a moment?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to explain for people why we also are trying to be deferential to the people who, for employees as well, many of them who start very early in the morning. But I didn't speak to it. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Excuse me, I'm so sorry. No problem. No, actually, okay, she said that she did get an answer from administration, sorry. Dr. Edwards-Vinson.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot. I too would like to just add my thanks and appreciation for all you do. It's so exciting each year to get to see what projects the kids are going to take on and it's just so fabulous for our district and just a sense that we're on the cutting edge with this and really appreciate it. I would like to ask the superintendent if you would make sure that a letter goes out from the school committee thanking the Cummings Foundation for their extremely generous gift to the CCSR. Thank you guys.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And Mayor, I just also want to congratulate and thank our dynamic duo team, Tanya and Alex for their incredible energy. I really, when I get to attend the meetings, you're great. Thank you so much for all the work you do. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van de Kloof. Yes, I just want to add my word. This is clearly a very comprehensive plan. As we were, as you were presenting it, I was looking at all the different things that we've talked about this evening and in our other meetings and sort of thinking about which buckets they would go into. It's not that some of those things haven't been already been doing, but the laying it out and saying this is our direction certainly makes it very clear to everybody.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for your presentation. That was very, very interesting. And I'm sure that you've, since you've worked in different districts and whatever, and you must be familiar with some of the software that's out there for what you're suggesting. Do, can you give us an idea of what, when you say, yes, it's expensive, are we talking 500,000? Are we talking, you know, what ballpark? Because this clearly is, not only the school side, but the city side as well. And I know you don't want to be pegged to a number, but, you know, I'm not sure that I know what your big is or your expensive is. Just trying to get an idea.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: current practice. And have you shared with perhaps Mr. Murphy what some of those biggest players are that you would suggest we look at?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If you could just give us some specifics, how many members of the team are you envisioning at this point? So Megan, and then how many?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So tonight, are you asking us to approve the concept without a dollar amount attached?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I make a motion that we move forward with the family engagement proposals.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So right now, we are expecting the advisory committee to present on Monday. And I thought we were then going to vote after their presentation. If they don't come to completion of their, I mean, I think it depends what, message we send back. If we're saying to them on Monday, we're going to, we'd like you to present whatever you've got, whatever, whatever, however, whatever slideshow they have, wherever they're at, you know, or, or, or we could be more direct and say, we don't need a 30 minute presentation. We need, you know, I mean, we want to make sure that there's, one or two slides about each name, not necessarily eight slides about one and none about the other. So I do think that the direction back to the committee is yes, absolutely. We're extending it to June 14th. We expect on the 14th that we will hear your presentation. Please at your meetings now go forward with the intent of having at least you know, a slide about each name, not eight slides about each name, but a slide, you know, something.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, that's more the only that, that given that there's limited time, And we'd like a fair amount of slides per. Right, to give us a concise presentation. And that if, I mean, if they need to set up their meeting so that they're going to speak, you know, half an hour on this name, half an hour on this name, and, you know, provide structure to them so that they don't get bogged down on the slide.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I support this very much because as the person now who's charged with reading the letters or the commentary, the question always is, do I have to read word for word? What if there's inappropriate language? What if there is, you know, three letters as there was tonight all on the same thing? It's difficult to understand exactly what we're supposed to be doing. So I appreciate that we might develop some guidelines for this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May, just to give a back story. So we received a $30,000 recycling grant and as part of the grant, It has to be a school committee approved recycling policy. So that is a standard policy for the Department of Environmental Protection. And I look forward to all supporting it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, Mr. Murphy, you and I spent considerable time today discussing the issue that my colleague brought up at the top of this meeting with the transportation for the high school students. And really what we come down to, if I'm clear on it, is that no final decision has been made except that you are working towards the fact that the school committee wants to provide transportation. One thing I thought about after our discussion was whether students would still be able to buy bus passes if they were so inclined.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And just to follow up, during the course of the discussion, I expressed great concern that the Eastern bus projection that we would be able to go down a bus was a terrific surprise to me. Now, it is true that we have less students currently than we did. It is unclear exactly how many students will be returning to us. But that is, I just, I think that we need to keep what our budgeting generous in this area because I believe, I just know from the past that all of a sudden we have requests from the woodwork and it's very, very difficult to take back something that you've given before. So that's a concern. On the bright side, I do wanna mention that there were so many things in this budget which are positives. For instance, I'll just pick a small one. In the world languages, we are going to introduce French in the sixth grade level and textbooks for that have been provided for. There's also textbooks in the science area, and I didn't go through all of them, but I don't want members of the public to think that there aren't, in fact, major upgrades in many, many areas. On the other hand, there are some areas which I am a little concerned about. I'm gonna go back to my fine arts where earlier I had asked many questions about this area. I had been advocating strongly for a supervisor, a director position of fine arts. After a discussion with the superintendent, it's clear that she's not yet ready to move on this. And while I understand that in some ways, in other ways, I still feel that the area is so critical in that social emotional well-being of life area. So we aren't doing that right now, but I've certainly made it clear that my concerns in the future. We'll be watching that very carefully. However, given that that isn't happening, I was a little surprised not to see some of the smaller requests increase inventory of instruments, including ukuleles. I had asked about the number of violins, being that we're going to be starting both potentially two grade levels. And some of those things I don't see funded. So I wanted to ask about that. And I also wanted to question, I assume that some of the other things that we talked about for science, I mean, excuse me, for summer enrichment programs are under the TBD sort because that's gonna come from ESSER funding?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, could you go back and talk about the smaller bylines and fine arts at them?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I see there is a line item restoration of supplies and transportation lines to provide for resumption of normal event participation post pandemic. So I assume that one perhaps is about transportation for the band. So that one is in. I guess one of the things is when I talk about and you mentioned ukuleles, but there's also part of my real concern was the violin and the orchestra program, that while they're small numbers, and I certainly understand you can say, yes, they'll be covered in the course, that there were some of these that are, you know, really germane to the enjoyment of students. And I think that enjoyment and going to school is, you know, a very important piece of it. So that's why I mentioned them, kind of like the chocolate chips and the pancake.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Now, one last, just building on a previous issue, It does under, for example, in the mathematics department, it does set aside 35K in, it says, for a week-long, four-hour-a-day math academy, which we had spoken about, certainly, in the curriculum subcommittee. It says COVID mitigation priority, so I'm assuming, again, that means ESSER funds?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, thank you. And thanks for all the work you've done on the budget, as well as Michelle and the rest of the team.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, the school committee received a letter this week from some of our CCSR students asking about our user fees. And this has been something that over the years we've sought to reduce user fees. Now, it's a fairly substantial number. And perhaps, Mr. Murphy, do you know how much user fees bring in or approximately?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So anyway, this is certainly another concern. I know that we have taken great pains to make sure that students who could not afford user fees were in fact waived, yet the students are bringing it before us. So I realized that at this point now we've set our budget number. We're also clearing that there's going to be some level of, change yet in the budget as they normally are. I think it is something that we should take up again at a school committee meeting. I certainly know that for years and years and years, the ideal thought would be that we would waive all user fees. But it's always been a budget impact, just the way the transportation is and everything else. So if we can look at it in the future, and again, the students spoke up, I would certainly like to hear more from their concerns, because I guess in many ways, I was thinking that we were meeting the needs of students. If we're not, we need to know that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mayor. I'd like to make a motion that we accept the budget and put it forward to the city council. For $68,221,865, Mia? Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Tomorrow night, yay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And earlier, it'd be okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kathy?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, first I just want to say thank you for the great presentation. It's great to see all of the projects. I'm particularly excited I have to say I think that that new house and you know the what you've talked about with the kids being able to learn how to do the kitchen. and how to, you know, cut into the drywall, whatever. It's just fantastic. So really exciting. I can't wait to see it in person. And the outside of the house of the school looks, by the vocational interest, looks so much better. So thank you for, thanks for all you do.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I ask a question?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And of course my phone's ringing at this point, but my question is, I've just seen the phenomenal work that our students are doing at the vocational school. And I'm wondering whether there's a way for this project, designing a sign, whether it makes any sense to, to ask Chad, and I don't know if Chad's still on, you know, is there between our different shops, is this something that, you know, a sign, I know there might be a timeline, so if the desire is expediency, maybe it takes too long, but I just wondered
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: From the lighting perspective or from the installation? I'm curious what part of the project was the most challenging to you, Chad?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, yes, yes. Do you wanna, like, I guess one of the questions is kind of getting a sense from the committee what we think, you mentioned the mayor like number one and four, is it possible to put them up right now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't like the white background in the middle.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then it says home of the Mustangs on it underneath.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Not lighted, okay. But we could shine a light on them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't know on this one, the things that I think it's, you've got the horse in two different places. I like the Mustang pride over the door, but maybe if, I mean, if we're gonna use this rendition of the horse, then maybe I would do the etching on the window, but have one of the plainer signs over it. I mean, I don't understand why we would repeat the horse twice.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, so I'm not wild about this new logo. What I do like, I like, depending, the home of the Mustang's right over the door is, you know, I prefer we stay with our old logo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I disagree with you, Paul, if I may, Ms. Cathy? Yes, Ms. Van de Kool, go ahead. I mean, if we were to reconsider naming the high school at some point, that would be when we did a very large project, if we were going to ever go that way. I think for this one, the idea was simply to get a sign on at the front signage as soon as possible. We see, I mean, Involving the whole community to make a decision about whether they like this sign or that sign to me is similar to sort of involving the whole community and whether we want this paint or that paint. I think this is in our purview that we can suggest, you know, we might want to involve all our colleagues or the mayor, whatever, or, you know, but to go further than that, I mean, I don't think this is a community issue. I think this is coming up with a good design and getting it up over the door.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Paul, we're not renaming the high school. We're putting a sign with the high school's name on it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think we could also say that's a can of worms too.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the question will be the cost of what we got as bids surprises me that it's so expensive. And I think that's the issue is to say, hey, we like this kind of, this is kind of what we're looking for. How can we do it in a less expensive way? Can it be done in a less expensive way? I mean, I look at the letter on the vocational school, and I think it looks pretty good. How is that done?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Which one's that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can you do one, two, and three again, Kathy?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, wait a minute, where's three?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On this one, we can only vote for one, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the thing about this then is that it's not showing the blue and white colors. It's showing the blue and the color of the school.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What is the sign made out of?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think at the same time, I think it's worthwhile having a little bit more of a chat, maybe with construction, I mean with carpentry and electrical. To me, this is the kind of project we can, what letters were done on the vocational school So I think both, I think, Peter, I think it's a great idea to involve the students. I think that doing some pictures around the school saying, which one do you like, you know, and it would be fabulous. I know it's late in the year, but I think that would really be the best. And I think if there is, you know, a way to see if there's any idea more about how to create the sign without spending that much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is a question about timing. And I'm not sure we're clear about what the timing should be. Do we want it in place so it's there for the opening of school in September? Or is it more important to cut costs, include the student body, et cetera? So, so far what I'm hearing is we want to do a little more exploration and we're not ready to give an okay to a 20,000 plus sign.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, and with the pricing, the pricing may be just the manufacturing of the sign. I don't know if it included installation. And then the other question is if it included the electrical work. So I don't think it did, but I'm not certain.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, this is where we really need a company to step up and make a donation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, Kathy, I think it's 6.04 now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Peter, that's a sweet idea.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to have us have a horticultural program, but that's a topic for another meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, what do we need now to proceed on this? What's our next step?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Anybody wanna skip the meeting and go out for a drink? Oh, there's Melanie. Man, that got a smile from a lot of you, so I think I'm onto something here. It's only Monday, too.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. So the meeting was on 510, present was myself, Paul Rousseau, attended in place of Mia. Jenny Graham was present. Also present was Rachel Perry, Peter Cushing, Suzanne Galussi, Bernardette Riccadeli, Lisa Evangelistic, Joan Bowen, Dr. Marice Edouard-Vincent, Christina Lee, Medford Community Media, Bill Giglio, and Maureen Lavin. Rachel Puri discussed health education. She gave us a presentation. She mentioned that Medford is aligned to national standards. DESE is editing the 1999 frameworks and will put it out for public opinion. So because of that, that's why we're right now aligning to the national standards. We use the Michigan model based K to 12. We spoke about this at some length later in the meeting as well. In the elementary, social-emotional is taught by classroom teachers, which begins in kindergarten. In third grade, discussions about bullying education begins. And in fifth grade, we have introduction to puberty given by the nursing department using a Proctor and Gamble curriculum. There are pre and post tests provided to assess student learning. In middle school, the students have half a year of health and half a year in guidance. Then we talked about some detail about the curriculum in each of the years. And again, that there are pre and post assignments. At high school health, it's taught by health teachers. Again, it's half a year of health, half a year of physical education. Freshman year is introduction to health, sophomore year is healthy decision making, junior year is healthy lifestyles, and senior year is transition to adulthood. Mr. Rousseau asked whether gender identity was covered in grade six to eight, and Ms. Perry answered that it was covered briefly in grade six. National guidelines on sexuality and gender identity just changed and we're adapting to those. Mr. Rousseau followed, said that he was concerned it wasn't presented until senior year, but Ms. Perry assured us that it's also presented during the freshman year. We also talked about the right language for consent. And Ms. Perry said that the students are taught appropriate touch guidelines. Mr. Russo said, do we ever talk about sex in a positive way? And Ms. Perry said that the age of consent is 16. So we talk about abstinence to adhere to that guideline. Ms. Graham questions about the Michigan model and spoke about her concern that a consumer product video is used to introduce puberty. And there was quite a bit of discussion about this and seeing the hopos that we could see whether there is a better film or introduction that's out there. And so that's sort of on the table to explore. In physical education, in each of the grades, really introduction to basic skills and concepts. One of the things that we talked about the most is what's needed. We need to hire a middle school health teacher. We need an adaptive PE teacher. We need to provide professional development for sex education. And we need to provide professional development for adaptive physical education for the entire physical education staff. We did talk more about the adaptive PE and asked how we're meeting the needs of all of our students. Ms. Perry said that some students say sub-separate, some go into full class, and we're looking into using something called the flash curriculum. Ms. Graham followed and asked more questions about the Michigan model, and Ms. Perry assured us that it's a skills-based model. And I remembered from our, when we, used it when we approved it, there was a great deal of discussion about it at the time. Dr. Marice Edouard-Vincent said the Michigan model is definitely one of the most respected skills-based models. We do need to pay attention to the national standards until DESE updates theirs. Girls are hitting puberty at younger ages, especially children of color. Research tells us that we need to emphasize healthy eating. Anyway, it was a good evening, and many of the things that we talked about in terms of needs, we've picked up in our budget discussions. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to approve. Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so Mayor, we did receive a letter from Mr. Giglio in regards to the Columbus School. We could take it up later in the agenda when we speak? Or do you want to hear it now? Whatever you think is appropriate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, if we perhaps did it at the forefront of that, it would be helpful.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have a question. HAB-Charlotte Pitts, Moderator, Secretary of Schools & Community Relations, COB 22152. HAB-Charlotte Pitts, Moderator, Secretary of Schools & Community Relations, COB 22152.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thanks. I was just curious.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I'd just like to thank both of our principals as well as those who presented last week. It's just so great to see some of the creativity. The desks that look like cars with the shields just absolutely just got it for me. So thank you so much. I mean, there were so many different ideas and creative thinking in those. You know, when we're talking sometimes about the issues, it's hard to, you know, understand exactly what's happening in the classroom. Then you see that and it's just knocks your socks off. So thank you so much to both of you and to all of our principals who've worked so hard this year and to our entire staff. Ms. Kay?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, are we ready to conclude? Yes, I did get a letter regarding the whole Columbus issue. I didn't read it at the front. This is from Mr. Giglio. I know he was on earlier. Yes, he's still on. There's a kind of funny thing about the letters, which now we have this way that people can submit letters, but they're also on. But anyway, I think I need to read it because it was submitted through the proper channels, okay? It says, dear school committee, with the recent removal of one of the Columbus School renaming committee members due to his social media comments, many Medford residents strongly feel that the process is tainted and flawed due to not only his anti-bias views, but other committee members and their similar social media comments. Although this former member no longer sits on the committee, his suggestion that there was widespread cheating as well as his comments made about a particular race and nationality of people who took the time to fill out the response form is absolutely absurd. I would also like to bring up the disturbing fact that the beginning of the last renaming meeting, a letter was read on behalf of the NAACP. I believe, and I could be wrong, that the public was told that there would be no public participation of any kind during these renaming committee meetings. Not only was the NAACP, who does not sit on the renaming committee letter, but it also mentioned other issues and ideas that were suggested to be next on the agenda to be pushed through in the future. I've obtained and read the letter that the NAACP wrote that was addressed to the mayor of Medford and dated March 12th, 2021, which was before the renaming committee was chosen. This leads many people to believe that someone within the school committee or school system had this push through to be read during the meeting on May 12th. Madam mayor and school committee chair, with so many issues that have arisen during this process, which included certain timeline dates, made but not kept by the school committee and with the removal of the renaming committee member along with the NAACP letter that suggests changing other rules and policies the Medford community kindly asks that the Columbus school renaming process please cease and be re-evaluated request this Columbus school renaming process be added to the ballot for the November 2021 election to afford a fair process for all residents to have a say in the process. Please consider this request respectfully, Bill Giglio, Winthrop Street, Medford. 18 year resident.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Mayor, I have, no, if I may continue. Yes. Yeah, I would support if the advisory committee needs more time. I certainly would think that we can accommodate that. I will tell you that I did eavesdrop on the last meeting. I saw the committee slugging through the weeds of process. then I was very appreciative to all of them because that's the kind of hard work, the difficult conversations, the trying to figure out what's right. And I certainly saw, while I wouldn't necessarily have agreed with every comment that was made, I certainly saw people working with good faith. And I was very appreciative to the advisory committee. So my personal belief is that if the committee has asked us for more time, then absolutely in the interest of them going forward, we should accommodate their schedule.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think we should hear from other members.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call, please. Wait, wait, Mayor. Member Van der Kloot. Is June 7th really giving them the time they need?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, the other thing I would just wanted to mention before we do the roll call is we also received a letter from the Columbus Elementary staff, which I know is going to be shared with the committee, the advisory committee at their next meeting. It was a letter really suggesting some other alternatives that perhaps weren't as loaded. I believe I heard Mr. Lister mentioned in a letter back to Vicki Mello, who sent it on behalf of Columbus teachers, that he was going to read it at their next meeting. And I would be very interested in also hearing their opinion on the letter.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Melanie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd actually like to defer to the to miss Cugno and Adam, who so if I could have
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're welcome. Thank you. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. I would support sending this to the subcommittee. I think there's lots of issues involved, including whether we have the personnel, whether we have the systems in place, perhaps we're identifying an issue. I may be sounding kind of old school, but, you know, I have some concerns about parents talking to their kids all throughout the school day because, and I always saw that, I mean, that certainly if there's a concern around transportation or who's going where, whatever, those are communications that do need to happen. But also, I think there's a lot of questions here. So I support it going to the subcommittee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, Kathy, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so Mayor, I do think it's time. My only concern is that we've just sent the advisory committee to make their presentations on the 7th And I don't know whether it's more complicated or less complicated for them if all of a sudden we say, oh, well, yeah, we're going to be in the chambers. So that's something I'm a little uncertain about. I think we're fine. You think you're fine? OK. So then fine. Then I would say that we should return and it should be, you know, it's time. Luckily, it's time. Thank God it's time. Yes. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to mention that I do think in the future, and I don't know exactly what the governor's advisory is going to be, but there also is, there is a plus side to sometimes having Zoom meetings, either weather related or whether you members are, you know, so I'm hoping that as we go forward into this next phase, and as we figure out meetings, that we're both returning to chambers, which will be a delight for many of us, but also that since we've now have this capability of doing meetings by Zoom, that sometimes we might opt to do a subcommittee meeting or something by Zoom. So it'll be interesting as we go forward.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I'm going to pick up right at the end about the busing for the high school. Dave, you've presented us with some interesting options, but with quite big differences in pricing. At this point, as you're building this budget, What are you, are you making a recommendation to us? Are we gonna, I mean, how are you going to factor in the cost into the budget?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Dave, let's go back to one of the things you said about the mile radius. And I have to tell you, I really don't recall taking any vote on that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I would be, I think it was perfectly understandable that our ridership diminished a great deal. I know in Medford, there's been a history of some students receiving bus service because of concerns about the roads where they live, the safety of it. So to just say automatically it's a mile, well, it's never been just automatically a mile.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, well, part of it is, you know, perceived safety or it's been in place for such a long time, any move to take away will certainly cause an uproar. So it seems like, I hear you on the optimistic level, we're gonna have some space and so we can utilize an existing bus That does sound very optimistic to me, Dave, and I am optimistic in general, but- I'm not so ready to balance each other out there. Yeah, and at the high end, it's 350, which is a huge chunk of change. And there are some, I'm just trying to say as we, with such a big number, it's hard to understand exactly where you're gonna come down to in terms of what we're putting into the budget.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. And the same time, and I appreciate the, uh, my colleagues having raised this issue because it is an issue and it is a, uh, a fairness issue. So, um, I think clearly we're going to have to have more conversations on it. Okay. I yield to someone else.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I just want to go back and address the subject that was raised by Member Graham, followed up with the mayor's comments and Melanie McLaughlin's on the high school. Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-Karen Hollweg, OSBT-K Initially, right after the election and the concerns around the makeup of the committee, then the pandemic stepped in. It is vital that we determine where we're going to go with this. Are we going to pick a whole new committee? There were people who had expressed interest. At this point, we need to establish a committee because I understand Jenny's concerns. And I also want to make sure that the building is livable for the kids who are there. So I think there is a I think there is some place in the middle of between absolutely not and doing some of the necessary upgrades to keep the building in a satisfactory. shape while students are currently using it. But key to that more than anything is we have to determine what the vision committee is going to be, what we're asking them of, and what the timeline we envision is. Maybe it's not the time to start it at the end of June. I understand that. But we need to be ready to be focused at the beginning of September and not wait for another school year to go by.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, but I think we need to determine, Mayor, we don't need, we can't wait till September to have the discussion about what we're gonna do. No, no, June, right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I saw the superintendent's hand waving.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have to say, everybody looks so tired already. It's only Thursday. What? Who looks tired? Everybody. Not you. All right, one, two, three. Maybe it's just, I'm tired.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're muted, Melanie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And thank you to everybody for the nice, concise presentations that we had tonight. My question in terms of the mathematics department was, but this will probably go filter through. I heard us talk about transportation for afterschool programs. When we talk about the summer programs, are we envisioning transportation availability for those? And are we envisioning all in person or might there be a Zoom Uh portion to four kids who can't come into, uh, the program physically.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: point of information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. Jenny Graham? Here. Kathy Kreatz is on her way. Melanie McLaughlin is absent. Mia Mustone is, I believe, on her way. So absent, Paul Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Van der Kloot is present. And Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I'll ask for the preference. I had a question for Dr. Chiesa. Do you want to do the whole presentation first, Dave?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I'm okay to wait.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. So I could, if I would suggest that we do questions subject by subject, so that all members can ask questions about a particular subject and then we move on. I'd like to start since Dr. Chiesa was first. English language arts. Nicole, you referenced that in the future we're going to be looking at our reading program journeys. As you know, it's been under fire from community members quite a bit. So could you just define when you say does in the future mean next year we're going to be looking at reading or could you just address that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, great. Thanks for that update. Just as part of that question, I just wanna know, the community member who spoke the other day at the school committee meeting also mentioned, and she's mentioned this before multiple times, the use of some teachers, and she didn't clarify whether this was an ongoing problem. I know she's suggested it in the past, but they were using picture clues. And you've mentioned in our professional development, development on science-based evidence for reading. So this little issue about teachers using picture clues, has that kind of now been discussed with the science-based evidence?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And just one quick last one. When will we find out about the GLEAM grant? And by the way, thank you all for applying for it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's my anticipation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right, so we'll keep our,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just a quick one. Mr. Seary, you mentioned Mozilla and Mozilla especially for science, but it sounded like we weren't moving with that yet. And I was unclear why, whether it's just another budget item, expense, how expensive is it? If it seems like it's been so successful in other subject areas, why aren't we putting it forth right now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, okay. I didn't understand that from your presentation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So it will be included for science as well. Is that correct, Dave?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Great. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I wanted to move on, if we could, to music and oral language. And I had several questions first. I think I'm going to take the music part up first, the fine arts. Okay. So my concern is, and we touched upon this in our subcommittee meeting on curriculum, but we've had a whole group of students miss their fourth grade string program and a whole group of students miss their fifth grade string program. And as we all know, This becomes the feeder programs for the upper level high school band and orchestra, which I think are such vital opportunities for our kids. So I'm curious about, and I realize this strays slightly from the budget, but there may be budget implications. How are we going to, so let's take for the group of next year's fifth graders who missed fourth grade strings. Will the violin become a possible alternative for them in the lineup of beginning instruments? And will we need more instruments for that reason? And so I'm trying to figure out how we're going to address that. And then that goes into, then we've also missed a whole group of students who missed their first year of instruments. And it's crucial for them to have that start if they're going to be in middle school music opportunities. So could you address that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Bernadette, you've really not answered my question, though. If you would, will fifth graders have the opportunity to play violin next year?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'm just wondering if we might need more violins next year, even if the school district is renting them because all of a sudden we have the kids who are moving from third to fourth. Now I'm working on the assumption that next year we are going to at least be able to offer violin because it's not a woodwind, it's not a blowing instrument. So that's why I'm starting there. I'm saying, you know, there may be fifth graders who didn't get the opportunity in fourth grade. Do we have, we've traditionally provided those instruments for the students for a nominal, I think $25 a year fee. Yes. Some of which is waived. do we have the capacity in terms of number of instruments or do we need to think about what are we going to do in order to expand? Because the goal has to be that in the long run that we're offering kids the opportunity so that we can get over this hump so that we continue our wonderful thriving orchestra which has boasted more than 100 members strong for years.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. So if I can follow up on that. So obviously that's a big concern of mine. And also how we look at the fifth grade band instrument program as well. I still don't know what we don't necessarily know whether we'll be able to be offering all those instruments as far as I know. This is one area where I'm wondering whether a summer program makes any sense at all. Um, you know, just to bolster if depending on what the, what the requirements are. Um, and, um, I guess it also opens up a bigger question. Now, Bernadette, I'd wanna be clear that this is with no reflection on the job you've been doing, but you will know that from all my years on the committee, I've been a proponent of the fine arts. And while I'm very mindful and understand that perhaps we're looking at how departmentalized we are, I am concerned that in the fine arts, it's really important for us to have the specialty of musicians and artists overseeing the department and the work. And so while Bernadette has stepped in and done the hard work this year, I've always said, hey, I don't want fine arts to become a second fiddle to all the other departments. There was a joke in there, but you know, to all the other departments over time, we need to make sure that our fine arts department is as important as all the other departments. And so I worry about that and I want to know, you know, going forth right now, you're not suggesting a separate director, but the question will be, what will the plan be?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to make sure that we budgetarily have plans as well and to make sure that we have enough resources to cover the needs whether it be an instrument or additional teaching staff or whatever to make up for this year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I had a question now, if we're ready to move on to world language? Yes, please. So my question is, Bernadette, you mentioned that there's a $49,000 line item for the introduction of French in grade six, but it didn't look like, was that inclusive of also money for needed textbooks in French, Italian, and Spanish?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay and the second question is really has to do with something you didn't mention but that is we've now no longer have an Italian program at the elementary level. We really haven't talked too much about what's going to happen there but I'm going to direct the question of saying you know the one thing about the Italian program is it brought in kids horizons in understanding that there are countries that speak a totally different language and use different money and you know, all of the different things that go along with learning about a different language. And I'm just wondering how we are going to incorporate that type of learning into our curriculum. You know, again, because we're doing without it, what are we losing and how are we going to, make sure that our students have that, you know, without waiting until sixth grade. You know, I've mentioned before, I have a grandson who goes to school in another state, and he's in an intensive French program from kindergarten. He speaks French. He's in first grade now, and he speaks French. It's amazing, and we're not doing that, but his also understanding of things like Time zones. He's in first grade of time zones and of, you know, money and games and all the other things that learn that take place about learning about another country. So I'm kind of curious, and I realized that maybe it hasn't been thought about too much at this point. Because it's been a tough year, but I'm wondering about that type of learning and how are we going to incorporate it into our the lives of our elementary kids.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Susan, who's going to be teaching the period you just spoke about?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And what are we going to call that? Do we?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, great. Thank you. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin is absent. Member Mustone is absent. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot, yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham? Yes. Kathy Kreatz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Melanie is absent. Mia Mustone is absent. Paul Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I saw his name.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There he is. He's here. Great. I am here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Member Van de Kloop? Yes, thank you. I just wanted to ask a quick question about the Curtis Tufts. Could you tell me what the current population of the school is right now? And also, were there some students, did all students start coming in? Or do we have any fully remote students at the Curtis Tufts?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So do the Curtis Tufts teachers, are they interacting with those students specifically?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Next question. You mentioned the program, Boston Recovery Program. In what ways would that differ from, say, a student going to the Curtis Tufts?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, it falls within, I mean, I think it's great that we're building something in because certainly one of the biggest problems in this realm is that we don't usually get to build stuff into our budget, it seems. And then all of a sudden somebody moves into the district. And so I think that that's a very positive move, but I just wanted to make the distinction. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. First I wanted to mention that it happens to be National Nurses Day today. So Tony I wanted to bring that and say particularly to our all of our nursing staff who's done such a tremendous job this year but to you in particular as well. And, you know, we We really haven't given you all the senior praises yet, but we will. It's very sad to know that you are retiring, but boy, what a way to go. Tony, you certainly pulled out all the stops this year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. I just want to ask you a little bit more about the four additional people you've recommend it in terms of tracking the COVID and for next year. What exactly, could you expand on the role, I mean that's a, you know, four more nurses, Could you speak to it a little bit more?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, so the difficult part with that is that, you know, please God, when this passes, you know, at which point we've now hired in, you know, a team of four people. And then we're just sort of saying, you know, I'm trying to figure out how that works.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you, Tony.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I had a question regarding the paraprofessionals. I wasn't quite sure whether the request was paraprofessionals at every grade level for every school, i.e. 20-something paraprofessionals. Could you clarify, please?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have more questions, but I think we should rotate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. As I'm listening to this discussion, I can't help but feel the word that Suzanne just used was opportunities. And there is here an incredible opportunity. Part of it will depend on how we structure it and how creative we can be. in terms of meeting the needs of our kids, but also providing that sort of what Paul suggests, extra outside time, extra time where social and emotional needs are met. And it's really very interesting just to think about as this conversation has taken a place. Now, of course, that's gone a little bit far from the budget, but it's been worthwhile to Listen into to think about going back to the budget, I just really many of my colleagues asked questions that I already had on my list, but I just wanted to be clear if before you were on. For example, it happened to be the Columbus School, but there were other things listed, like replacing outdated Chromebooks so that we could maintain the pandemic purchases, or replacement tiles. I assume that we'll be discussing things like that in the particular, under different parts of the budget.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, so and also to follow up and I realized that Principal Kaye has been very detailed here, but she did mention in her pages replacement of walkie talkies for the TLP program.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, Chris, I would certainly be concerned that if there were broken equipment for that particular need, that it would not wait for next year, but it would, in fact, we would find a way to do it this year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I very much appreciate the coordinated presentation at the beginning. There's just some of these details and it's actually quite good to hear that, yes, that's taken care of. Yes, that's taken care of. So I appreciate both.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I see that Principal Kaye has her hand up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mia has a question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: From my fellow school committee members.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi, Susie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Say that again, Paul?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yep, I saw you and now I see Jenny. So with the three of us here, I'm gonna go ahead and start the meeting. If we could all rise to say the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Thank you. I'm gonna take the roll. Member Graham? Here. Member Mustone is unable to attend, but Member Ruseau is attending in her absence.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And now I'm going to Read the paragraph. You would think at this point, we really should have taped it or something. We should have thought about something more clever, but I don't think any of us ever perceived we'd be reading it this long. Anyway, meeting date, May 31st, 5 to no later than 6.30. Please be advised. On 5-3, from 5 to 6-30, there will be a curriculum subcommittee. The purpose of this meeting is to review the health education and physical education curricula in the Medford public schools. Pursuant to Governor Baker's March 12, 2020 order suspending certain provisions of the open meeting law, and the Governor's March 15, 2020 order imposing strict limitations on the number of people that may gather in one place. This meeting of the Medford School Committee will be conducted via remote participation to the greatest extent possible. Specific information and the general guidelines for remote participation by members of the public and or parties with the right and or requirement to attend this meeting can be found on the City of Medford website at www.medfordmass.org. For this meeting, members of the public who wish to listen or watch the meeting may do so by assessing the meeting link contained herein. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately assess the proceedings in real time via technological means. In the event that we are unable to do so despite best efforts, we will post on the City of Medford and Medford Community Media websites and audio or video recording, transcript, or other comprehensive record of proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting. The meeting can be viewed through Medford Community Media on Comcast Channel 22 and Verizon Channel 43 at 4 p.m. There's a Zoom link. The meeting ID is 93008727811. OneTap Mobile is 19292056099. Okay. And having said all of that, the agenda is we will review the health education and physical education curricula. And with us today is the director of physical education and health education and assistant athletic director. That's a long title, Rachel, but Rachel Perry. So Rachel, I know that you have a presentation for us. Which area are we going to discuss first?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rachel, hold on a second. I just thought before we move on, it might be useful to take some questions regarding the health education piece.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so are there questions at this time on the health education? What's the preference? Jenny, what would you prefer to do? Do you wanna move on or do you wanna?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, we'll watch the time. It's 5.41. Let's do this like in 10 minutes or so. Okay, so Paul, I see your hand up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Jenny, do you have any questions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rachel can we, um, is that something that you can send us the videos.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Perhaps you could share it with, with, with us. So we could see how they're handled. And is that something you're. that comes under, I mean, nursing, I heard you mention Tony.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, Susie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Susie, I see your hand up, Susanne.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It certainly would be interesting to see if there is a video which, in fact, addresses all of these questions to the kids at once. I mean, we have come a long way. So I would say that it would make sense for us to look into that right now. Paul?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I wanted to ask one question about there used to be a unit on dating violence. And I remember an outside group coming in and make a presentation. Does that still?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, great. Okay, so I think at this point, it makes sense for us to move on to the physical education. And then at the end, if anybody has thought of more questions. And if we have time, we can come back. So if you'd be so kind. I promise this one will be quicker.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Thank you, Rachel. Rachel, I'm going to start off the questioning this time. You did on the last slide hit the most important questions for me right now. The adaptive PE, to what level are we offering and meeting the needs of special education students? for instance, autistic students. And you mentioned the flash curriculum, is it good for special ed? But as we were going through all the class levels, that was exactly what I was curious about. For example, if we have a substantially separate high school class that's held at the high school, are those students receiving health education and how is it modified appropriately?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And is that then an outside curriculum?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's free? Yes. Music to my ears. Yes. I thought that would be. Is there a way? Could you send us a link for that so we could see that? Absolutely. OK. So to Jenny or Paul in particular, what questions might you have for Rachel?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Jenny, in the past, in prior years, this was a deep conversation as we were looking at our curriculum and seeing it was not adequate. And so there was much discussion about looking at our curriculum and looking at the Michigan model, which sort of rose like the cream to the top and talking about that, getting feedback from our principals and from our teachers. It was, I would say that it was, you know, it's always important to review curriculum and to make sure they're still meeting our needs. But I do want to say that this was something that was, I don't know if that is. Thoroughly talked about on the school committee level.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Are there any other questions for Ms. Perry? Rachel, Paul, no, Jenny. Okay. Great. Okay. So thank you so much, Rachel, and thank you everybody else for attending who's here. I really appreciate it. And we have a meeting, school committee meeting starting at, what time is it starting, six o'clock?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Seven o'clock. Great. So we'll see you all at seven o'clock. Thank you so much. Motion to adjourn. Motion to adjourn. Motion to adjourn. Second. Paul Russo?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham? Yes. Paulette VanderKloop? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: She did email the team, I believe. OK. Yeah, I just didn't see it. I've not been looking at my phone for that reason.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, because he might be particularly interested in this one. Thank you, Jenny. Yeah. So let's see here. Everybody else who needs to be here is here though. So I can at least begin by reading our general script. So please be advised that on Wednesday, April 28th, From four to 530 there will be a curriculum subcommittee meeting, which we held through remote participation via zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to review science and fine arts curriculum in the Medford public schools pursuant to Governor bakers March 12 2020 order suspending certain provisions of the open meeting law. chapter 30a paragraph 18 in the governor's march 15th 2020 order imposing strict limitation on the number of people that may gather in one place this meeting of the medford school committee will be conducted via remote participation to the greatest extent possible specific information in the general guidelines for remote participation by members of the public and or parties with the right and or requirement to attend this meeting can be found in the city of medford website www.medfordmass.org. For this meeting, members of the public who wish to listen or watch the meeting may do so by assessing the meeting length contained herein. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the meetings in real time via technological means. In the event that we are unable to do so, despite best efforts, we will post on the City of Medford or Medford Community Media website an audio or video recording transcript or other comprehensive record of proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting. The meeting can be viewed through Medford Community Media on Comcast Channel 22 and Verizon Channel 43 at 4 p.m. Using Zoom, the meeting ID number is 988-447-42816. A mobile number is 1-929-205-0699. Our agenda today is that we're going to begin with a review Well, today we're discussing both the science curriculum and the curriculum Fine Arts. So I don't know, perhaps Superintendent, would you like to start us off?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Whoops. Thank you very much. Um, maybe we could stop screens sharing right now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And in the meantime, I'm just going to ask my committee members to do a housekeeping. We did not take the role. So if I could just call attendance, Jenny Graham. Here. Mia is unable to come, so she's absent. And Paul Russo is here sitting in her place for as long as he can stay. Thank you. OK. Yes, Paul, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I actually had a question, Maurice. Perfect. And I can email you on some of the follow-ups, but I'm surprised that you said the demand for AP environmental is low. Do you poll the kids periodically? How do you know it's low?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I'm just thinking that a student might even know, how would a student know that it's potential?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so in the interest of time, I'll just say it was very clear that there's substantial textbook needs in a variety of not only the ninth grade biology, but which I was very happy to hear that there was a supplement that would be good for our special populations, but also across the board. So I guess unless there's any other thing pressing from Paul or Jenny, We should move on. Jenny?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Thank you for attending, Paul. OK. Dr. Riccadeli, thank you. Thank you, Rocco.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So let me start off with one Bernadette typically in the music program we start our fifth graders with violin. Can you tell us what What ability did we have to start kids on violin. I mean, I can't this year and also beginning instruments in the sixth grade? And what impact is that going to have on our future band and orchestra programs?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So did fifth graders start violins at all or no?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So in other words, we are hoping that we will be able to provide some opportunities for the kids who missed out, if you would, in the fourth and fifth grade.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, because right now you're gonna have in essence two years of beginning strings. Yes. And I know that we've always kept some instruments aside or some violins for students who can't afford it. I think as the committee as a whole has been addressing some of the needs of transportation throughout the city, the rental program becomes a question too. And so I think I don't expect you to have all the answers for this right now. And I certainly know that there was Mr. Zigny in the past had done everything he can to provide instruments to students who wanted to continue but couldn't necessarily afford it. But I think, you know, I'd really like you to be looking at that question saying, you know, are we able to provide students with the instruments so that we're not losing students who might be talented musicians, but simply because they can't afford it. Also, next question, just one more. The Quaver Ed that you mentioned, is that a series of lessons? Or I went online as you were speaking to take a look, but I just wanted to know what we were using it for.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So you think it's $7,000 for K-8? So it is a K-8 program, however,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Jenny, do you have some questions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But it's a supplement, right?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so a teacher would use it now and then, not every lesson.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, we'll have to look it up to learn more about it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My personal experience has been that it's, been something that if anybody knew of a student and it was brought to Mr. Zigney's attention, magically it happened. So it's been an informal rather than a formal. I don't think kids were cut out, but it was never formalized. So, okay, it is 529. Jenny, do you have any more questions that you can do in 30 seconds? Nope, that was my last question. Great. Do you want to make it? Thank you, everybody.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I appreciate you being here. I'll call the roll. Jenny? Yes. I'll let, yes. Thank you so much. Right under the wire. Jenny and Superintendent, and if Susie is still on, just if you guys could stay on for a second. Sure. Okay, just so we can talk about the next meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is Susie still here? Yep, I'm right here. Oh, great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Jenny, just while you're here, so at least there's two.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd rather do it the other way.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Beth Fuller.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: In Superintendent, you didn't make my announcement.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to make a comment, if you would. First, I want to thank everybody who put their name in, and I want to tell you it was very, very difficult to decide. Part of what I was looking at in my, you know, just quickly, was also determining number of men and number of women, and was it you know, did what sort of names to be seen. But it was very difficult to decide because there was people wrote passionately, people brought different skills. I wanted to include them all. And I really wanted just to thank the members of the public who took the step and put their names in for our consideration. We really appreciate it. And just because you weren't selected, doesn't mean that you didn't have an awful lot of value to bring. Because there were a lot of people left on my list who I would have loved to have included.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hmm, Paul.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion of approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I do agree that sometimes I think we would benefit by having some rotation. Like a member might ask two questions and then we might go on to a next member rather than just having one member. I think it might be more engaging for all of us. The other thing is I just bring up very diplomatically of saying our last meeting was six hours long. We had something like 23 meetings in the in March. I think what we are inadvertently doing is taking over some of the roles sometimes of the people who we respect and. of doing their job and we need to allow them to do their job and not take up so much of their time with our meetings. And I don't quite know how to, there's no way to legislate it, but I think we need to be very conscious as we get now to this last part of the year about how many, what our expectations are about additional meetings and the length of them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I will take the vice chair, member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I would suggest that we at least try, and when the mayor comes back, we'll talk to her about doing a rotation for questions to see how that works. Maybe a question, and if there's a follow-up point, that would be understandable, but not a whole new question. So do I see consensus just with a shake of your head, or is everybody willing to try that? Great, okay. Can we move on to the next order of business? And I don't... Superintendent, can you tell us what it is? Because I don't have it out. We can't hear you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: while you're looking for that, Mayor, what we decided was that we would ask you to, that we would rotate questions. Perhaps a member would do their question and there might be a potential follow-up to that question, but not a new question. And we would go through members and we'd like to try that out and see how that works. Sounds great. And Melanie is going to give her report.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have one email submitted by William Giglio from Winthrop Street. This is to your school committee members. This is a short but two-part email request. One, with all due respect and after talking with many other Medford families who tune in to watch Medford Public School Committee meetings, we kindly ask that any and all subjects that do not pertain directly to Medford Public Schools, please be refrained from being discussed during the time of the meeting. We as parents tune in each meeting to keep up and stay in touch with what is going on within our school system. And we do not need updates on news stories that are going on within our nation that do not directly affect this school system. Example, at the last meeting, the news of a 20-year-old man in Minneapolis who was shot by police when trying to flee while being arrested was discussed when this had nothing at all to do with the Medford public schools. There are many other city community meetings and other outlets that have the time and place for these types of discussions. Two, I also kindly request that at the beginning of each Medford school committee meeting, when reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, that a flag be present behind or in view of at least one committee member during the time that meetings are conducted on Zoom and not in city hall chambers where flag is present. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. Just this is kind of a housekeeping comment. Because of the change in the budget meetings, the curriculum subcommittee meeting is going to be this Wednesday from 4 to 5.30. We're going to be discussing the science curriculum as well as the fine arts curriculum. Additionally, and I particularly want to highlight this to my co-members, Jenny and Mia on the curriculum subcommittee. We'd like to set up another one for May 4th, Tuesday, May 4th, also from four to 5.30 to discuss health and PE. And that would take away the May 13th meeting and give us the opportunity to hear from those departments prior to the instructional portion of the budget. So after the meeting, if Jenny and Mia would let me know whether that Tuesday, May 4th date is acceptable and whether they can attend, I'd be most appreciative. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, let's see, member Rousseau, and then I'd like to get, we do have a hand raised by Leticia Rocha. So member Rousseau.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, may I call on Leticia Roca, please? Leticia, are you there? Can you unmute yourself?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I see the mayor is back, so I'll hand the reins back to the mayor. You need to unmute yourself.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We were discussing the transportation for high school students.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Melanie would be next. Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I had some questions about, first of all, there's a timeline September 1st for comprehensive lists and current job description. And I just wanted to understand whether that was realistic given all the demands of going in right now. So I was just curious about that from central administration, what their reaction to that is. I'm a little concerned, I find this, in many ways pretty confusing and very prescriptive. I'm sort of wondering if there's a way we can simplify it to make it more accessible.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, let me see. I was going to say Kathy's had her hand raised.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot? Yes, and I would second that. I'm also just gonna throw out one thing. So, you know, I just, the terminology, professional staff, what, the rest of our staff is unprofessional? There may be no way around it. It may just be the common thing, but I'm just going to mention it to say to me, it just sounds so funny.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, there are two letters that we received. One is regarding the mathematics curriculum, which makes sense to read just prior to Ms. Khan's presentation this evening. And the other one is regards to the afterschool program, and it makes sense to read that. The parents specifically asked to read that at the outset of the presentation, as they had questions incorporated in it. So if I could hold those two to them, that makes the most sense.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, sorry, I was doing an undersecretary's report.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was like, what's going on here? Oh, sorry about that, Melanie. We'll just let you get over with it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: 2021. So on March 10, 2021, we had a Curriculum Subcommittee meeting that was to be attended by myself, Member Graham, Member Mustone, the Superintendent, Dr. Nicole Chiesa, and Dr. Chiesa gave a PowerPoint presentation. Now, if you recall, at our last school committee meeting, I asked for this to be held because the PowerPoint presentation was not incorporated into the minutes, and now it is incorporated into the minutes. At the meeting, the first thing we reviewed was state expectations, and then we looked at Medford Public Schools, the district curriculum, professional development, and resources. equity in English language arts and goals and next steps. We talked about the early literacy screeners and, again, the district professional development. There was quite a list that was given and provided. The Hill for Literacy, Crafting Minds, Dr. Nadine Gabb, Lexia training, Lexia Core 5 training, et cetera. We also talked about the Medford Early Literacy Screener. The Alexia Rapid is given at the Brooks, McGlynn, and Roberts. And the NWEA Map Growth is given at the Columbus. There was, of course, some concern about evidence-based instruction and discussion about journeys not being evidence-based. and the bringing in of ECRI. Some parents had concerns that it is not complete enough and are not supportive and evidence-based. There was also a question by member Graham who spoke to the fact that there had been a request for a handwriting curriculum. That did not go forward last year. I'm not quite sure whether it was only because of COVID or also because of funding. So that's something that's still on the docket. There was discussion about the curriculum being more reflective of different cultivating additional programs to support the science of reading, including, but not limited to, ECRI, which is Enhanced Core Reading Instruction, Lexia Learning, and NEWS-ELA. There was also, Dr. Chiesa provided for us a list of price points for various different supports and how much they cost the district. The one other thing I just wanted to mention, oh, was, Equity in ELA, there's been the addition of numerous novels and informational texts by diverse authors, creating an inclusive classroom, inclusion and pacing guides, and also an edition of News ELA, Exploring Identity and Culture, Mirrors and Windows Collection, A Mile in Our Shoes Collection, and Black Students Matter Collection. There is another curriculum meeting this Wednesday at four o'clock, and we hope that you can join us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, the problem is we're covering so much in the meeting as it is. I think that while we touched on, you know, resources being included, we haven't had specific, more in-depth conversations. We have another meeting this Wednesday. It's covering two subject areas. you know, we're gonna have to go back and I know we had a follow up. I wasn't thinking it was in the curriculum, Melanie, about the special education resources, but we certainly could do it. Why don't we talk and we'll figure out how to go forward on that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't know. I think Dr. But at this point, no curriculum has been chosen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. I think we have to hold that question right now, and we'll do a follow up on that. Oh, there's Dr. Marisa.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, this was a follow-up, a second night of discussion from the strategic plan. Again, we divided it up into elementary, middle, high school and special education. Unfortunately on this night, there were no special education parents and no high school. So we went down to the younger levels. I think that one, a couple of comments that I just, one member said they thought that it was passive rather than active. And I thought that was important. There was some discussion of what's the difference between a mission and a vision. And since one of the parents suggested that perhaps as a part of this or the totality, we liked the idea of a short memorable. And one parent suggested preparing our students to change the world for the better. And I thought that was kind of a neat vision statement. There was a question of how would we have follow-up and how would that we know parents wanted to make sure that they were part of the follow-up as this was, as we spent more time on this. That's it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Russo, sorry. So in truth, the night that I was there, I was also, I guess, confused because the truth of the matter is that it is the vice chair who's reading those. So that's not accurate. The big question is, so we have to take that piece out of it. is whether the secretary believes, and we can ask our current secretary, whether she wants to be put on in the position of every meeting being asked if there's a separate report from the secretary, or whether that is just something a holdover from a prior time. Now, I do know earlier when member Kreatz held the position, she approached it in a very certain way, which was great. But the different folks have different feelings about it. So the reason, I just wondered what you thought.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot, you said there's only- There's two, and one is in relation to the math curriculum, and the other is relation to the afterschool program. So I thought I might read them at the beginning of each of those sections.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm so I do have a letter from the public regarding the math curriculum. I don't know whether I would actually ask Pfizer, whether I should read it at the beginning or at the end of her presentation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think just because we've... the person submitted it appropriately, we should read it very quickly, and then hopefully you'll hit the points. Okay? That'd be perfect.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kahn. Dear members of the school committee, I have some questions for Ms. Kahn about the report on the math curriculum and would appreciate if this letter was read then. One, have the programs that the elementary schools can possibly pilot been narrowed yet, or is that part of what the committee is going to decide? What are the programs that are still in consideration? Two, What is the plan for the current middle schoolers for the 21-22 school year? Will the seventh or eighth graders have an accelerated class? Or are we planning on definitely choosing one of the high school acceleration options? Three, if the advanced pathways chosen that begins, if the advanced pathways chosen that begins in ninth grade, figure four. A, how are the enhanced classes different from the regular classes? How much from pre-calculus needs to be pushed into these enhanced classes for students to be ready for calculus? Could these topics be covered in the regular classes for all students? B, what are the pathways for late bloomers in math to get into the advanced pathway and for students who decide to switch out? C, could there be another option where all students take algebra, geometry, algebra two, and then senior year when students have a better idea of what they want to do after graduation, they split into an enhanced calculus or take one of the other math options? This is very focused on the advanced students, but what are we going to do to close the achievement gap, especially from the events of the last year? How can we close the gap without relying heavily on summer school, excessive afterschool tutoring, excessive homework, or keeping students back? Thank you. Submitted by Michelle Chiccolo, 28 Douglas Road. Thank you, Ms. Van der Kloot.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Fiza? Yes, Paulette? Ms. Khan, will you be able to post your entire presentation perhaps on the school website so that people can see it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, that would be great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Paul has his hand up. Oh, sorry, I couldn't see him.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor. Member van der Kolk? Yes, I wanted to, we received another letter. Yes. It says, dear members of the school committee and Mayor Lungo-Koehn, I am watching the school committee meeting on the public access station. I am watching the math presentation. The question that has not been answered is what about this year's seventh grade students who were not given the option to accelerate? I thought they would be given the option in eighth grade, but based on this presentation, it does not sound as though any option is being offered that will address them. I would appreciate if someone would ask this question. Sincerely, Juliet Gainsborough, parent of a seventh grader and a 10th grader, 115 Alston Street.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, I received a letter which specifically asked me to read it at the outset, if I could, on this topic. Please do. Thank you. Dear school committee members, I, Teresa Fernald from 13 Whittier Road, Medford, am submitting this request and a question on behalf of almost 40 families who have joined together in support of the expansion and further development of accessible, equitable, and inclusive afterschool care in Medford, Mass. We request that I be granted five minutes instead of three during the afterschool topic, agenda 9.4, and that the below questions be read aloud during the meeting prior to our five minutes for this agenda item. Medford parents for better after and before school care. We have built a network of approximately 40 families who are ready, willing, and eager to be part of identifying and executing solutions related to the afterschool crisis in Medford. To build the MPS school committee mission round tables to build off of, I'm sorry, held April 5 and 6, we know the current mission statement is changing and we support this change. However, we would like to ask the following as it relates to the mission, calling for MPS to be a partnership of school, family, and community. What is the best way for parents to get involved in brainstorming and execution of solutions for the city's afterschool crisis? Beyond attending a school committee meeting, how do we start a conversation towards solving the afterschool crisis that builds toward a true partnership between parents, school, and city leadership, in addition to the larger community? Thank you, Parents Working for a Better MPS Committee. And there's Andrea Quinn and Emily Parada, Christina Roberts, Dallas Scott and Haskell Kent, Daniel Blackwell, Deirdre Hausler, Emily Jameson and Dennis Anderson, Nicole Dillon, Teresa Pernald and Vanessa Forsner. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Yes, thank you, Mayor. So the thing is, first I want to thank Megan and Fiddler Carey and David Murphy and Suzanne Galussi and everybody else who's worked on this. And certainly there are a lot of positive changes in this. It looks You know, the increased wages hopefully will help in securing people who want to work in the afterschool. It's always been a difficult position to hire because it's for a limited amount of time in sort of an awkward part of the day. I will tell you that I've visited the afterschool on numerous occasions, and I've just been so thrilled with the staff members and their dedication to the kids. They clearly take their responsibilities very highly, and I've heard such wonderful feedback. Having said all the positives, the only thing is if I'm looking at this and it was from the first slide with the numbers, we're adding projected 60 spaces, but we've got 144 on the wait list. That means if I understood this correctly, there were still 84 families who are being disenfranchised. And so then the question comes back and saying, Okay, great, fantastic. I understand you're trying to be realistic in your projections. I understand there are some issues about space, although Mr. Murphy said it was not space alone. Probably the hiring, I would guess, is one of the most difficult things altogether. But how are we going to accommodate the other families who are not accommodated in this? And what, what else can we do. I wondered and I realized, I absolutely get that there's a whole nother oversight needed. We've parents have mentioned that they wanted to be cooperative players I've remembered the days of preschools. where there were cooperative preschools and parents volunteered maybe to work on a Monday and Wednesday, and then their kids went and other parents took over in other days. And again, I fully appreciate that's a whole nother level of organization. But if hiring is the issue, And if we're looking still at this gap of 84 families, and I don't know if it's spread throughout the district in particular, that seems to me that's the next challenge and what are we gonna do about that? But again, I say this almost kind of like torn, because I wanna tell you, I very much appreciate the work that's been done and the steps that are positive moving forward.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I actually have a question on it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. So I just have to raise my concern because I've looked at the schedule just to try and get more meetings in with our budget meetings and what we're expecting of our staff. I mean, maybe we have to ask, um, Megan to spearhead this sort of meeting. I just have to express concern that, you know, I think we had 22 meetings last month and I wanna be as responsive to the parents as possible. I wanna have maybe, you know, is there a way of working committee but a formal school committee meeting to meet with all the parents? It just doesn't seem like the most effective way.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot? Yeah, I was actually going to suggest the same thing. I think, Mike, my initial concern is we need to make sure that we're giving our administrative people space to do the budget. But this clearly needs to be in the mix. The one thing about this topic is we've got to, this isn't one where there's opposition or we're at loggerheads. We all want the same thing. We want this to happen. Everyone here, I have no doubt, wants this to happen in a positive way for our families.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I fully support that we want to make sure that we are talking to parents and engaging with parents. Whether we need a formalized process right now, I'm just trying to say, you know, I think we have a pretty good idea of what the issues are. Personally, we've got a very active, engaged group of parents who have, you know, clearly been able to make their voices heard and their express their concerns. You know, there's nothing, Melanie, you're sure we can vote on your thing, but I don't want to formalize process and say we're going to have this survey and that survey and whatever. I don't know exactly what it is that you want, that we're not I'm responding to short. We can't trust our staff to do. I trust our staff is going to talk to these people.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, it was referenced in the minutes that we received tonight. And I was in the elementary meeting on the second night. So I did hear the parents extensively. And I realized that you weren't able to be there. So that may be why we've got a slightly different perspective than you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, and I'm sitting in for Melanie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, at least for a while.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think that in terms of the role, it should be done so that the school committee role is called and announced by the mayor and then it should be, then the student rep should be introduced. I want a differentiation between it. I know that you're going to spend more time at some point talking about the role of the student reps. I had some misgivings or concerns about some areas of your conversation only because in my long-term, I will tell you that there are years that you have great student reps and they're there and they're participating. And there's years where you don't, and there's years where you have very confident kids and years where you don't. And we just need to be very, very careful about what we're setting up so to make it a true positive learning experience rather than someone on the hot seat. And we need to be aware of that. We happen to have had some very strong representatives while you guys have been on the committee, but that's not always the case. And there were years when, frankly, we didn't have kids who were interested. you don't you don't want to put them in a place of embarrassment either where you're keeping on asking if they're present and they're not or something like that. So I just think one we need to I think it's great and we certainly just prior to When Dr. Perlow was the head, we had had some discussions because I think Paul, I think you and I had, we had actually gone to a MASC event about student reps. And I talked to many student reps about what their role was. I came back feeling that we weren't being significant about it, but then that kind of fell through the cracks because we changed, you know, principles and we're starting, we started over again. So anyway, that's my two cents.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't know, cause I haven't really thought about it, but I mean, now when they, now often the mayor will make an announcement as she, when we call the roll, she'll make an announcement. So it's sort of to formalize that so that she'll also announce who's present.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, but those two people aren't part of the quorum, Jenny. That's why I was making the- I know, Paulette.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I don't- Dave has his hand up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We took the role. And then if the students were present, the mayor announced them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, I think what the problem is, is whether the mayor, what Jenny's saying is she doesn't know whether they're there, and probably Brianna doesn't always know if they're there. And so by calling their name, you know if they're there. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry, I don't want to belabor the point. I was just concerned about making a separation so it was clear for people who didn't know, you know, that they're not voting members or something like that. They're student members. So anyway, I think we should go on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I don't know. I've always seen it as the warmup, but I can understand. You know, I've questioned about the report of the secretary because I think it's just something that's been on there forever. And I mean, different people have handled it in different ways, but, you know, I don't know. So that, you know, if you can, I just don't know whether it makes sense if we were looking to take something out, but I'm not the secretary right now. But I do know that when you're the secretary, I mean, Kathy used to go and she would highlight a particular bill or something, you know, which sometimes was interesting, but, you know, you know, it's not that as secretary you get so many, I mean, it's a rare time that you would get a letter or something that went to you only, except now that we have the school committee, you know, letters, which come under community participation, so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Particularly in the recent times.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, you know, this has been extraordinary.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, the interesting thing is if the secretary is called on nowadays, he or she should be called on during community participation to say, are there any letters that have been sent in? So in some ways, the secretary's report should move and be part of community participation to highlight the outside letters.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that piece sometimes, frankly, the mayor forgets. So it would be useful to have, it's a tweak, I think.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think that the motion should be that the secretary's report be moved to under community participation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, a bullet underneath.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I need you to just in a sentence or two, tell me exactly what you're saying when you say consent agenda.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think that you can do that for minutes. I think that there are certain ones that have to be called. I think you have bills and payrolls, I think have to be, I think we need to investigate that to find out whether that's true or not. But that's my, for the ones that we can, I'd certainly be, that would be okay with me, but we need to be clear which ones are which.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, yeah, sure. Yeah, I'll look at it later, but I'd like to see it. So if you found one that has it, that'd be great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, we can move it forward. Okay. I have to think about it a little more, but we certainly can move it forward to the main meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Let me flip back to... Okay, members of the council and Graham, unfortunately at this point I need to leave.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, take care. Bye-bye everybody.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Correct. Yep.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are we going to have an initial introduction?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Let me, I put it in the chat, but I think it said, Medford Public Schools provide safe and equitable learning environments that fosters academic success, personal growth, positive relationships, civic responsibility, adaptability and resiliency for all our students. A lot of our conversation was about, there was nothing wrong with the vision statement as written, but it was, you know, tended towards to be too encompassing. Now, a lot of our discussion really was, we really liked one from Boston, Paul, every student, every day.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the one that I read, what we were really talking about is what key phrases came up. And we had a discussion about how important the school environment, how it had become clear this year that the school environment was so important in nurturing our kids. And we talked about equity, and we talked about adaptability and resilience. So we were just trying to incorporate some of those key concepts, I think. But, you know, the shorter the better in so many ways.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, I'm gonna ask if you could just skip to the next item of business and take this up last. I'm switching back and forth, because I also have community participation letters, and so I'm not quite ready. So if you could just do some of the other subcommittees first, I'd appreciate it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would actually like to table them to the next meeting. I see that Dr. Quilles' report, a link wasn't provided. And the discussion will make much more sense with that link. So I'm going to talk to, we'll figure it out by the next meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Mayor, we received six communications. The first one is entitled Info Request for Advisory Committee Columbus School. It was submitted by Luchita Hiller, 58 Metcalf Street, Medford. She says, hi, I am trying to find information on how to apply for the advisory committee in charge of picking the new names to replace existing Columbus school name and how to submit new name nominations. I have been looking through the MPS website and could not find anything. Can you direct me to the right place where this information lives? Thank you. Would someone like to address that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So the next letters, there's five letters and they're all on the same topic. I'll read one from the first one that was submitted on this topic was from Sharon Hayes of 69 Ripley Road and then I'll tell you who submitted the other ones. It says, dear superintendent and school committee members, I am writing to you as a parent of two elementary school children who are currently enrolled in the full remote learning at the Roberts and who will remain in remote learning for the rest of the school year. I am very concerned that the students who plan to remain in the remote classes not be subjected to additional changes due to the April 5th shift to full-time in-person learning for the current hybrid students. The remote teachers have spent the last six plus months working hard to create a classroom community and new daily routines in virtual learning. While both of my boys are struggling with the virtual aspect of virtual learning, they love being a part of the classroom community and seeing the same classmates and teacher every day. And as a parent, I know that the classroom routines keep them feeling grounded and secure. If any of these things are changed now with less than a third of the year remaining, if students are regrouped and put with different classmates and or a new teacher, it will cause yet another major disruption in the lives of young children who are still living through an intensely difficult and traumatizing event. Please do not make changes to the remote learning classrooms between now and the end of the school year." That sentiment was shared and we received a email from Arshia Amina of 37 Ashland Street, from Shanine Pelequin, she did not give an address, of Michelle Ciccolo of 28 Douglas Road, of Wynette Vo, Um, also no address and of Claire Flaherty of Marshall Street. Um, all of those, these centers, uh, echoed the same concerns of the first letter, um, about remote learning.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May I ask, Superintendent, are you going to address this this evening?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot. Yes, I would raise my hand also to express my concerns that it seems like we've made a commitment to our remote kids and it doesn't seem fair to all of a sudden put them in a predicament, though I hear what you're telling us, Superintendent. I think probably right now it makes most sense to turn to the community members who've had their hands raised for quite a long time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot. I wanted to ask another question. Why don't we vote on this one first?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just want to ask. I mean, the programs that we spoke about this evening are also the programs that have taken place before, so it's great to have an update about them. But are we anticipating any further remedial type programs for students during the summer? I was kind of curious about where we're going to go with that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Do we have a rain date for graduation?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes I just I want to it's I've received another email and I did note that the speaker was was here I see him but it's from Matthew Page Lieberman of 15 Canal Street. His question is I'd like to know what options are available to a MHS senior I recently met who told me of her struggles to get the assistance she requires for her mental health from the school system after attempts have failed with her guidance Councilor. I can answer a couple of things.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Go ahead. So can I direct the sender to tell the student to contact you directly?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and that you will make sure, or superintendent, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: HAB-Juliette Boone, Moderatoring): Jenny has her hand.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just wanted to suggest that it would be a better use of our time rather than guessing at this. I know I've had very detailed conversations about the air compressors with John McLaughlin. If he was here, he would be answering every one of our questions on this. Um, and I remember when they were replaced, um, the same thing with the other, uh, the details along the fire extinguishers. So it might be that we want to, um, hold the details and ask John for an update on the specifically on the, um, uh, what you're referring to the document you're referring to Jenny.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we expect John to be joining us later in the meeting?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, so I need to understand what we need to decide tonight, because clearly there's a much larger question, which is to say, how much money are we going to put into the current Medford High School? If in fact, at some future time, we envision a rebuilding or something. And so I need to know just tonight, what decision we need to make? Was this brought to us because we're trying to make a decision about whether we're gonna expend the money for the bathrooms?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, are we discussing the superintendent's contract now, or?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi, everybody.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Melanie?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I had sort of a question, comment, a little bit different than where you're going right there. But just in terms of thinking about our kids, I know that last week I had occasion to have to go down to Mass General Hospital to see a friend. And, you know, my reaction was there was all these people there. What were they all doing there? I was used to being in spaces that were very distant. And all of a sudden there were lots of people. Everybody's wearing masks and all that. But, you know, I'm kind of wondering about kids. And Stacey kind of veered in when you mentioned, you know, all the kids who've been on remote all the time. But as we are looking for kids coming back into school who have been given this message over and over again to keep their distance. And now we're potentially going down and you know from 6 feet to 3 feet. You know, I know how I reacted I and I've talked to other people and they've had similar reactions so what about kids.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm wondering about the short term the kids who are coming back in, you know, in the coming weeks to all of a sudden, you know, four day or five day learning. you know, what we're thinking about and helping them adjust to this, more bodies. And again, I'm really thinking about the kids who are prone to anxiety already.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are we talking to teachers at all about, you know, having them be watching for this kind of anxiety?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just wanted to say to Dr. Cushing, it probably, so right now it sounds like the RFP is being prepared. This is something that I think the Buildings and Grounds Subcommittee should also hear about.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just saying, Peter, it's such exciting news now that it's back on the block. So at some point, think that the Buildings and Grounds Subcommittee should also be updated when you get the chance.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just want to mention that one of the real key issues about the after school program is personnel, is getting enough people to cover the students. And that's been a real challenge. So even if you look at enrollment, whatever, obviously the answer is to expand it, but expansion has been tough because of the lack of people who want to apply for the relatively low paying jobs. And it's also, it's not just the low pay, it's also the hours. Many of our teachers have already worked a full day, so they're not particularly interested. We've tried students coming in. We certainly bring in a certain amount of high school students, but they need to be overseen. So absolutely what we would like is to be able to expand it to accommodate every family who needs it, because that's the answer. But it is challenging.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It sounds like we will need to be having a separate committee of the whole meeting for this topic. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Special Ed? Yeah. Well, I forget. Do you want me to get the list and take a look? We used to have support services, and it fell under support services.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, you want to just read off the titles, Dave?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we used to have one that was called support services and when they were shrunk to a more manageable level, that is not as clear. I mean, you could argue it in any number of different ways. That's why I said committee of the whole partly because I think that all the members will be interested in this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to ask Dave if he could give us an idea of what time you had in mind for these dates, the 4-27, 4-28, 4-29.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: First of all, I love the historical research and I personally think that is a contender for the name. I don't think we should limit our name only to people. I think just going ahead and voting on that tonight, we would not be following any of our policies. We wouldn't be following our naming policy, which there is actually a naming policy. I think we've kind of set people up for expecting that there might be a process for naming. There's a whole lot of me which would like to say yes, but you know, let's just vote it now and over with. I will tell you that from all the letters we've received and the discussions we've had, there will certainly still be part of our population which disagrees with the change altogether, no matter what we say or do. And that is because they feel that something is being taken away from them. And of course, all of my efforts have this point have been trying to move us in a direction where we could in fact choose a name, which is good for everybody. And I do think your suggestion hits that. Now, as vice chair, I need to report that there were more than 100 letters in the school committee account. Many of those letters, and if I read all 100, we will literally be here for hours and hours. We could just turn off this and I could read for the next five hours and start our discussion at midnight. So I want to mention, right now that we had 96 people asking us to supporting the name change and we received one petition from our resolution with 391 Medford residents signing. The other last time we did receive a petition from Medford United, which also had, I think it was close to 600 Medford residents signing. And I did read that. If I need to go back, I can find that and read it into, all of this will be put into the record though. A little tricky because in this particular time, we only have three communications opposed to the name change. I mean, and we know that there are far more letters. Some of the letters have come into my private account as opposed to the school committee account. We did receive one letter from Mr. Petrella, which I'm just going to mention because he said that he had his hand raised or was, and he didn't get to speak at our last meeting. So I want to make sure that we're not overlooking anybody.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, and I would personally like to ask, if people are speaking, please turn on your cameras so we can see you. It's just, I know you're not mandated to, but it is much easier for us. So if you can, that's a personal request. If you don't want to, that's your option, I guess. Anyway, so that's the letters received up to this point, and they've been coming in pretty consistently. At this point, I'll just give it as report. They'll be all put into the record. And if anybody wishes me to do anything differently, I can. I'm at the it's at the will of the committee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So a couple of different things. Mayor, like you, I went down and I distilled from both member Rousseau's and my own resolution key talking points. And I asked Peter if he would put them up. I think they're similar to yours. There may be one difference. Because I don't really think it's a choice between mine and Paul's so much. I think that member Rousseau, because he was dedicated to doing this, sort of got out and laid out a process and giving us all the opportunity to say, yep, that works for me. No, it doesn't. And so I wrote mine down because it was pretty convoluted. But the six key talking points really covers the most important things. Now, I had mentioned the other day at our meeting on Monday that I do have concerns about the timeline. And my concerns about the timeline are because not in the first part, not the, you know, application process, We actually have, member Kretsch suggested April 30th, the meeting is on April 26th, which both member Ruseau and myself put as the date to choose the advisory committee. But it's the time, how much time does the advisory committee have to work? And part of that is asking, what are we asking them to do? So these are the key talking points that I put forward that you're seeing on the screen right now. One is how is the advisory committee chosen? And by the way, the application, I had one additional thing about availability and time, but otherwise mine and member Rousseau's, I think we're pretty close. and not particularly complicated. But point number two is what is the makeup of the advisory committee? Three, once names are submitted for consideration, what is the next step in the process? Four, what is the charge to the advisory committee? What are we asking them to do? Five is how is the chair or co-chairs chosen? And six, does the advisory committee bring one choice to the school committee for confirmation or up to three for our selection? Those are really the key points that member Brousseau and myself look at in different ways. So that's just, I put that out. I know there are many hands raised now, so I'm just gonna lay that out right now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would like to address one thing. Many people are speaking about all the different things that the school committee faces, and that's absolutely true. We have a lot of work ahead of us. However, and part of this is being brought about, well, you need more time to hear us. We have heard strongly from the community, and I myself have gone and spoken to some members who are very anti the change. And it's very, very difficult. But to say you don't have enough time, well, frankly, we're a pretty dedicated bunch all across. And I don't think that once we get through the process and work it out. And there will be some things that I speak to, like removing one piece, we'll get to it later, off of a school committee onto a committee of the whole instead. You know, so I do, and the other thing which I think is key for me to say as the longest serving school committee member is, and when this first came up, I spoke to it. Now, when this first came up, I will tell you, and I've said to other people, I wasn't happy with the process, okay? Because at that first meeting, I felt confident in that, yes, I did feel there was a reason to change it. You must remember that there was in light of a very a spring of great reckoning and understanding of what was going on in our world and the racism that exists that we all saw with our own eyes. And there is a context to this. But 20 years ago, when we built the new schools, I can absolutely tell you that there was a discussion in the committee, in the Building the Future Committee of which I was part, about the naming of the schools. And at that time, we were well aware that there were people who would much prefer it not to be the Columbus School. I've kicked myself sometimes because I let that go, partially in deference to a community member who I had great respect for and who didn't want it to change. But it's been a recurring You know, maybe you haven't heard it, but I have over and over again. I've heard it, I've had discussions down at the Columbus School with parents. So it's not that this just popped up and there's been, it's not been part of our discussion. It has been particularly for parents whose children attend the Columbus School. And that certainly isn't to say that everybody agrees, but it's certainly been there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the time has to do with the timeline that she's suggesting is part of the discussion that we'll have. We're sort of talking two different things. I too, after I worked out my resolution, believes that it would be great to have more time, which is to say a number of weeks more to come to the conclusion of this. I've built in and will talk to my committee about saying that I think that once we put the advisory council together and they begin their work, that they are the ones who will need to be able to say to us, hey, we need eight more weeks, or we need 12 more weeks, or we think this has to be the timeline. But that's a discussion that as we work out the particulars of this. The other thing is the reality of it is, and we just have to say this, and it's just blunt. When people are saying they haven't been heard, we have heard them. But unfortunately, we don't necessarily agree with them. We are not agreeing to change, to not change the name. So people keep on saying, you haven't heard us. Well, we are hearing you. And quite honestly, I mean, I had some great discussions and I was really moved at one point by one person who told me what Columbus Day meant in his family. And I listened and I heard that. I've heard other people say we're erasing history. We're still going to teach our kids about Columbus. It is part of our education strands. It's not like we're just saying, and Columbus had, hey, there were some things that were good about him. What we're saying is, is he, is this name the one we want to represent this educational facility in our community? You have voted for. the committee, six members plus the mayor, this community voted for us to do what we think is best. This is not an easy job. It is painful, it is tough. One of my committee members said to me, you know, Paulette, the problem with you is you wanna make everybody happy. And that's absolutely true. I don't wanna piss anybody off. And no matter what I do, I'm going to make some people unhappy in this. I am being true to myself, I've worked, spent hours and hours. And by the way, those hours were not conflicting with the other work that I do, talking to administration, saying, hey, can we work on this? Hey, what about that? Okay, I've got lots of hours in my day. But trying to say, how does this process work? And is there a way that the process can help bring this community together? I listened on Monday when Mr. McKillop suggested that we start all over. And for a while back, I was there. I was wondering about that. But I came, thought deeply and said, you know what? At this point, we have had lots of opportunity. People in Medford are aware of this. I walked my dog this afternoon with someone I didn't know. She's not particularly involved at all in the politics. I said, wow, I've got a heavy meeting tonight. And she said, oh yeah, it's the Columbus naming issue. People know. Anyway.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: When member Rousseau created the form, he had on his form that someone applying for the advisory council committee, sorry, would also be submitting a name on the same form. I have severed the forms. I have you apply for the advisory committee or you're putting in a name. Anybody who is a member of the advisory committee on the advisory committee can certainly put in a name, but they're two different forms. It'll just be more easy to organize. Here's the list of names. Here's the list who's applying. The other difference in our form is I also asked on the one for the advisory committee, I asked when they were available. So there's a line that says, you know, can you tell us when you're available? Because I think we need to know if people are only available one day a week, that might not be sufficient. If they're only available between four and six on Tuesdays, that may be difficult, and so that's why I asked that question. The other thing is when I wrote mine, I put a statement in it as opposed to a question, and member Rousseau knows about this, a statement saying that if people needed interpretation services or computers, whatever, that that would be supplied. So it's a statement rather than asking them if they it's just makes it clear.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I ask the question differently, Mayor? Instead of adding it on Member Ruseau's, could we just use mine instead? Because I've already written it all out. And since Member Ruseau submitted the other one, I'd like to hear if he's, you know, these are my suggestions. It would just be easier unless there's a lot of controversy about it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So instead of working from either resolution, can we work from the list of questions that either you or I put forward? Because that then is going to, we can, one of those is addressed in that list of what I said were the key questions. Um, so if we if we worked from the key questions, then we would be, then we would have the discussion about each of our different approaches.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just so you know, on this, as this differs from Paul's in just two ways. I added the sentence about, are you related to the name you submitted? And I also asked that each name be submitted on a different form. Otherwise, mine and Paul's are the same.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I forgot to add that, Paul. It should be added.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On mine, I have a separate paragraph devoted to the Columbus School. Now, the original intent was to have a very lengthy process with students being involved. The time frame makes it shorter. and certainly will not be as we intended when the original motion was drawn up. But there is a piece that's dedicated to it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so I think that there was a difference in Paul and mine about the date that the applications were due. And part of it is that there's a vacation week built in there. So he had them due on the Friday of vacation week. So which, Paul, if I recall, originally it was April 26th, 24th, 23rd, right on yours? Is that correct? I pushed it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So that's the Friday. So that's the Friday of vacation week. And that's usually the day when we're then getting our packets of information. So I gave more time, less time to apply. I have it done on Friday, April 16th. which does cut off time, but it's because of vacation week. I wanted to make sure that our office staff had enough time to collect all the applications, to collect the names, and to prepare them to give them to us as appropriate. So that was the reason why Paul and I had a different time. I just wanted to be clear on that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: April 16th. So in essence, people have four weeks to apply.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. Again, it just had to do with the vacation week issue.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You could, I just didn't know who was gonna be, since it's vacation week, who was gonna be in the office and they need to be collated and sent out to us. So you could, but just realize whatever office staff is in the superintendent's office or whatever.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Wait, say that again.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Mayor, Paul and I, and this is one of those key talking points that I mentioned to you earlier, we have a big difference between us on the process of what happens to the name submissions. I have them all going, if we receive 50, I have all 50 going immediately to the advisory committee once it's formed. Paul has a process where we wheedle them down. What happens is we would, at our school committee meeting on April 26, which is what he designated, and Paul, if you wanna speak to this, because I'm speaking for you, But he had it that the school committee would wheedle down the number. So let's say we got 100, we would each pick four. And he has a fairly involved process where they're weighted. And I found that confusing. And I thought that the whole intent of the advisory committee was, in fact, to vet the names. I did not feel that I could receive the names on a Friday, April 23, and in our Monday meeting, April 26. be willing or able to then only send to the committee my top four choices. It's a very significant difference on how we approach this question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, just to answer that. Or we can set ourselves up for failure by receiving, if you're a number, Paul, of 300 on Friday afternoon, and expecting me without, I don't have any time to vet them. And on so what basis am I going from 300 to four? It's just not real. The reason you have the advisory committee is to do the work. I mean, part of it will be when they will go through and, you know, the first ones, they'll, you know, but that's not, if you're having us do that initial work selection without establishing what criteria we're using, it's a crapshoot. And I think that it undermines the whole process.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So can you use mine, my wording since I worked it out?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, um, so in my mind we're not erasing history we're changing a name to what might be a more appropriate name in this day and age. Columbus will still be taught, like you said he was a famous navigator. There's much history there. It's to be appreciated in its totality. It is part of the Massachusetts strands of education. I think it's both fourth and then again in middle school where students discuss Columbus. So it's not in any way a shape to remove Columbus from the curriculum or not to teach it. It is a question of saying, what name do we want to put on this building that will embrace and bring our community together? Unfortunately, Columbus is very divisive, as you can see in this discussion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruseau had that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I, I think that's problematical Melanie, because so many people have already felt that they haven't had the opportunity to speak to now say that this may take us another three hours to work through the whole document. So I think the way the mayor's been feeding them in. As time-consuming as it is and how sometimes questions are being asked that we will answer, I think we just have to be short and say, we'll get to that. But I think you might make a tough situation even more difficult if you shut down any ability to talk while the meeting is proceeding.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: how some people might perceive it, Melanie, and I know you're always open to hearing from her.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Nadia. The question for me is, and I've said this all along, is there no one else that we could honor from the Italian community that might in fact bring a great deal of pride I understand people have very different feelings about Columbus, but part of the issue is, is there any way to move forward? We are saying we need to move forward. We understand, and I think a lot of this meeting is because we want everybody to speak, but again, part of the, the need at some point is to say, is there anybody else? Who else? And we're trying to say, if you want a voice in this, apply to the advisory committee. We're working out the nuts and bolts so that, and certainly all the work I did on the resolution was to make sure that no one person could slant the committee in such a way that a final name was predetermined. Um, so that's just a, you know, that's part of what I was looking at is to make sure the process was clean. I understand you don't like the back process. I understand that it's painful. I hear it. But going forward, how can we make sure that we are doing the best job? And I encourage you to please apply for the committee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to mention that Ron Giovino has had his hand up for a long time, but he doesn't have one of the regular little hands. So just to make sure he's on your list.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ron, what's your address?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I think people should also only have one last chance to talk. I think that we've allowed ample opportunity for people to, you know, and many people have spoken several times and, So I think that we've been more than generous with time. If there's people who haven't spoken, they should get a chance to speak. But we're getting tired and the commentary is dissolving.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So one of the questions is I've seen principal K here and some level of question was around the Columbus participation. And I wondered if we should, Talk about that. Paul and I do have the Columbus participation in a different way. You know, it is part of the bigger question of who's going to be on the advisory council, membership on the advisory council. Perhaps, you know, when you have multiple devices and then they close on you. This one's Paul's, sorry. Anyway, would that be acceptable? Mayor, can I talk about that for a minute? Yes, please do. Yes, thank you. First, I have a paragraph about participation by the Columbus School staff and students. And it's a separate paragraph says in recognition that the staff and students of the Columbus school are dedicated to their school. The school committee requests the principal to create a representative group of staff to solicit input from their colleagues. Additionally, student input is highly desirable. And if it is feasible, student participation will be encouraged in any way the principal deems to be workable in this very short period of time. The goal of both staff and student input is to come up with three to five names to submit for consideration to the advisory committee. The names will be submitted by April 26th. So we're saying to the principal, there's only four weeks. We had originally envisioned a much greater, longer period where we were gonna get student education and input. Therefore, in recognition of that, I'm saying, oh my gosh, you know, principal, I don't know what you're going to be able to do. And I don't, I understand to me, it's not, this is one of the problems with a very tight timeline, I believe. It's not giving a great opportunity for student input. Furthermore, the principal of the Columbus or her designee, as well as two staff members selected by their peers. And then I have, or appointed by the principal. I didn't know which way to go. I wanted committee input and I wanted the principal's input.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: overall intent, Columbus participation, the overall intent was that we originally said we wanted some student participation, and we were recognizing that the Columbus family if you would, including staff members should have some role. Member Ruseau will speak to this, but he identified six members as being on the advisory council. I thought that was a lot to ask for six members. I'm suggesting that the school have an internal process, however way they want to do it, to collect names that they want to submit, hopefully with some student input, but I don't know if the time allows, honestly. and that there would be three members from the Columbus community, and that is the staff, okay, that would serve on the advisory committee. And they would be elected either by their peers or appointed by the principal, depending on what we decided. So that was my thinking.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, but that was less than the six people that Member Ruseau suggested.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, can I just, one thing, Paul, I just don't know, and when Kathy can, Principal Kaye can advise us on this. I just don't know with teachers being at the end of the school year, and it's such a busy time. A part of it was I was trying to lessen the obligation, even though I totally understand they may be fully invested or want to be invested. This is part, you know, this is why I've said from the outset, oh my gosh, I've got a problem with the timeline. It's really tight. We're not being able to achieve some of our goals. So, you know, that's my concern.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: For me, Principal Kaye, what I really want to be is respectful to the time, the limitations of time that you have. I wanted to make sure that there was some place where your school was represented. I personally understand completely that there may, you know, doing a big school project just doesn't necessarily make sense. unfortunately, right now. So if you thought that, you know, if it was making everybody aware that they could submit names from your school and making, you know, that maybe would be what's really possible right at this point, making forms available, letting kids know, you know, whatever, that might be just, you know, what's real. And if the, do you think that, so originally I think it was that you and, you know, there were five members all together. I suspect strongly there'll be some interest so that you'll be able to have staff members who will want to participate. Am I correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Did you see those though as members of the advisory committee?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Dr. Kaye? Yes. Are you saying that it would be better for the school not to submit names specifically from the school?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so if you look at the paragraph that I wrote, which is on the screen, if we take away in the first large paragraph, if we take away the last sentence, the goal of both the staff and student input is to come up with three to five names. If we just take that out, Okay, remove that, then you have in recognition that the staff and students of the Columbus school are dedicated to their school, the school committee requests the principal to create a representative group of staff to solicit input from their colleagues oh um. Yeah, no, okay, that doesn't work.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So my next sentence is, additionally, student input is highly desirable. And if it is feasible, student participation will be encouraged in any way the principal deems to be workable in this very short period of time. Yes, that would work for me. And then the last sentence to that paragraph is further the principal of the Columbus or her designee, as well as two staff members selected by their peers or appointed by the principal. And I have a question mark there because I don't know which is better. I don't know whether you prefer to say that you'll appoint them or whether you say, oh yeah, doing a vote is the better way.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. So we'll take about that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So thank you. Now, again, that's what I'm kind of suggesting to working through from what I heard Jenny say and whatever. Jenny, does that meet your?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do you think there should be more than the three representatives, or do you think that's a realistic number?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So why don't we just put the principal and as well as two to four staff members, and we can come back to that piece after we figure out the other members of the committee. That works for me.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, we can revisit it if it's too large.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You can take off the CCC. I use that only because it was an easy way for students to be elected by their peers. And so that's why I limited it that way. And also because I know that they're a service organization interested in community participation. Again, I'm just throwing out some of these things by saying there is having a high school student rep on any committee that we have is, I think, an appropriate thing to have. I'm absolutely fine with however people want to amend it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: slot that we want to may take a lot more time than, I mean, maybe there's a lot more interest than... So Mayor, that's why I designated the CCSR because they have, you know, meetings and they have, you know, it's just organizationally, it's a really easy way that kids can get together and vote and say who's from Columbus, who's interested.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham, while they're trying to figure that out, bullet one and two essentially are the same and need to be condensed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, why don't we put, let's work through each of the lines and then figure out how many it comes up to, okay? The number one said the up to four names are, so it says the two names selected from the Columbus School and Principal Kathy Kay. So we had put the up to four. individuals selected from the, it should say up to four individuals, not names, sorry. Thank you for doing this, Jenny. No problem. So on number two, it says each school committee member will select a member of the advisory committee from the valid applications received and will state the names publicly. In the event that an application is selected by more than one school committee member, the members will continue to name applicants until a total of seven advisory committee members have been named. Now that was a member Ruseau had done it. He had suggested that every school committee select two. That put together a committee of 14 already. I was concerned about the overall size. The process is the same that we each name One, so we can look once we sort of figure out the total number of people, we can decide whether it should be one person or two people. The next thought to any thought to allow.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So mayor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So again, I have two different committee members who have very different feelings about this. One wants each of us to pick two, and one wants everything to be done by lottery. I was looking for a middle road because I The and to me the middle road and was do three by lottery. So there was some totally random piece. Okay, and And then do have each of the committee members pick one To be honest with you. I'm very open to whatever the majority of the committee wants to do. I'm not stuck on any of this. I just wanted to explain where I was coming from and knowing Kathy had already said to me, I think everybody should be by lottery. And I knew what Paul said. So I was trying to bring everything together to a middle place. I personally believe that when it says select, if we decide that part of that selection should be by lottery, I'm not uncomfortable with it. But clearly I didn't say we should select the whole committee to try and bring people together. Thank you. Paul, can you go along with any piece of the, can you go along with three lotteries?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think I'm looking to bring people together. So Mm. Member Graham.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: How does the administration feel about that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess, yeah, I need, I need you to say that again. Um, I'm troubled because I think that we as school committee members do, um, uh, have the ability to pick a person. And I think that we'll pick a person that will each have a criteria, um, that will not be the same, um, you know, uh, necessarily. Um, but that's why there's seven of us. Um, you know, uh,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And what if we don't like the committee that the superintendent or her designee comes up with? I mean, that's the problem.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I'm open to hearing my colleagues, if everybody thinks that's gonna work, I don't know. Kathy, how do you feel about that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I guess we just have to ask a superintendent, is that something which is comfortable for you?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think you can just go ahead and do that, Mayor. We don't need a motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the answer simply is by statute, The naming of school buildings belongs to the school committee. The responsibility belongs to the school committee. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I think it's inappropriate to single out a school committee members. And I just, I think it's appropriate not to let that comment continue.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Why don't you go say the individual selected from the Columbus School and then parentheses say up to four. Principal Kathy Kay and the one MHA student will be announced.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I would say the individuals, and instead of saying up to four, let's say up to three selected from the Columbus School staff, Principal Kathy Kaye, so that's four from the Columbus School, one Medford High School student. If we're saying that we're each gonna pick two, so we're up to five and two would be, 14 would be 19. Then the chair would be number 20. And the member from the historical commission is ex officio non-voting. So I have 20 voting members. Now the question is whether we're gonna have those three selected by lottery. That was in direct response to Kathy's concerns. You know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, you've already got, you've got five from number one, three. You've got up to, up to, okay, up to three, four. Five, so you've got five people in number one. If we each pick two, that's four.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, no.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so you, so the chair would be chosen by the mayor before the meeting? You know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm okay with that. I think I would say chair or co-chairs.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I just, and that's fine. However you wanna do it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I was giving the responsibility to the mayor. We could say that the person that she picks, since we're each picking two, that one of her picks will be for the chair or co-chairs.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, but it doesn't necessarily, in terms of the voting, it doesn't necessarily matter.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So part of the question is we're also asking whether they're gonna you know, when we get to the process of how many names they're gonna give us, you know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the only problem with that, I mean, it definitely works, but who's organizing that first meeting then? Who's sending out the notices? That's what the problem is if you have the committee pick their own, if you have the advisory committee pick their own leadership, it starts it all out and how long does it take to get to that decision?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor. Member Van der Kloot. So the reason why I originally said the mayor will appoint was because I wanted the mayor to do some legwork in advance of this to search out people who would be interested. And so that she would know who the chair was gonna be rather than leaving it up to who applied. I mean, I needed, I'm thinking when we had advisory committees before, for example, for building the schools, the mayor sought out people to be chairs and appointed them. I will, by the way, tell you that this committee is larger than the building the future committees were. Nobody's amused by that, I guess.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we need, are we keeping in the three additional names by lottery, just? Yes. Yes, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and the chair is a voting member, correct? Yes. And the historical person, I was really hoping, I put it in your lap, Mayor, because I just thought that you would be a good point person for reaching out to the historical society and asking, we're going to need help. The advisory committee is going to need help looking into the history of some of the people that are suggested.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And potentially, since they're non-voting members, it could be more than one.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paul had that in.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I did not have it in mine, so. You could add that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think it's too big, but that's.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We have to look at this again in light of our other discussions. So change up to four, up to three staff members. Yes, that's right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just think that, yeah, I think we have to be really realistic.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, this is just the work of the advisory committee. Correct. Yeah. Okay, for number two, I think it's important that there, it's very possible that there will be people who are not aware of the letters that we've received and the depth of angst. So for that reason, I wanted them to have access in a file to the letters so they could understand what kind of letters we've read, we've gotten. So they don't have to read them, but I just want to say that they have access to them so they can understand what the discussion has been so far.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, does anybody object to that? No. OK, how about number three?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, now there's a crucial point here, and this is one of the key talking points that I mentioned right at the beginning. There are two different ways we could go about this. Paul suggested that the advisory council go all the way down to the single last name, they give a presentation, and the school committee votes to confirm it, okay? And frankly, he had that all done on the same night. I say that the advisory committee gives the school committee three names and the school committee then at a subsequent meeting, I don't think it should happen at the same meeting, that we pick one of the names. The arguments pro and against are, if we have the advisory committee pick the final name and then we just rubber stamp it, in many ways I feel like we're giving up our responsibility. However, I realize that others will have a different opinion about that. But it's a clear, we have to make a decision about how we're gonna proceed on that particular point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, Paul, if you put it in those terms, I think that we have the responsibility to pick from three finalists. And I would suggest that it would be OK with me if the advisory committee weighted them or numbered them or chose not to do that. We gave it to those equally. But if you put it in those terms, then I don't see how we can choose not to.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so my concern when you get down to two names is that it becomes polarizing again, right off the bat. So I love the idea of involving the kids and the community. There is a time factor for all of those things. But I really would suggest that we might even have the kids go from three names to two names, or we're adding another process here. but that's why you don't pick two names is because you have one Italian American and one black American, and there you are with your polarization. So that's why I said three, up to three, I said up to three, somewhere along the line.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So it should be, we're chosen since there's gonna be more than one? We're chosen, yeah. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. Mayor, I agree with you. I'm really concerned. I mean, there's a whole lot of me which thinks that this work ought to happen in the fall. and a temporary name should be given to the school. I mean, you know, I guess the way that I would put is maybe put another line, if the advisory committee concludes or if a majority of the advisory committee concludes that they cannot complete this work in the timeframe specified, that they come before the school committee or that they communicate this to the school committee with a suggested new timeline. How's that? Now, that would take care of the concern that I personally have that it's too much work and too little time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I thought we just talked about that but then we did withdraw right here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's ludicrous to say that we can't change the date of the original motion to say that you know that if they need more time we'll give them another month and they can the Columbus can stay the Columbus for another month. I mean As many have said, we're during a pandemic, all the other timelines. If you actually go back and read the minutes, and there is probably a problem with the minutes, but it doesn't reference the whole, it just says the name of the Columbus will change, and it doesn't put the date on what we actually voted. And I went back and read it. Now the intent was clear, but I'm just saying, Paul, to hang your hat on and saying, you know, that's your personal thing that it has to change on July 1st. Okay? There's nothing in the world that says it can't change on August 1st. Okay? There's just nothing. And, you know, if you want to avoid the temporary date, I mean, somewhere along the line, I think we've been working really well together. We've got different opinions about this. I mean, frankly, I'd like to say December 1st, because I think December 1st would be much more of a process of bringing kids in. To me, there's a rush here, which is still really uncomfortable, but I need to ask you to move off that, oh my God, the world is gonna end on July 1st if we don't change the name of the Columbus School.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: HAB-Charlotte Pitts, Moderator, Secretary of State for Education and Human Services, to speak on behalf of the Board of Trustees. HAB-Charlotte Pitts, Moderator, Secretary of State for Education and Human Services, to speak on behalf of the Board of Trustees. HAB-Charlotte Pitts, Moderator, Secretary of State for Education and Human Services, to speak on behalf of the Board of Trustees. HAB-Charlotte Pitts, Moderator, Secretary of State for Education and Human Services, to speak on behalf of the Board of Trustees.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. And so that we just for an extra month, it would be called Columbus for an extra month. Okay. Now, if that is so unacceptable to my colleagues, then I would strongly vote for changing it to the South Medford Elementary School and not leaving it as an open, because I don't want that to become the issue. I think, to me, it seems silly to have an interim name for just one month.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We'll choose the temporary name.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, that they have to give us a recommendation on July 31st.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Period.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: When you say after that we will pick a name you're opening a whole new kettle of fish.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is, the final date is July 31st, 2021. And what if they just don't?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, if that happens- Three recommendations to us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think that then in the off chance the school committee will, the school will be called the South Medford Elementary School until a name is decided upon.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Anybody planning on going on summer vacation this summer?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, I need to add to that. We also haven't covered the first part of this, page one. So our work is not done at the end of this page. And there are more people that would like to speak.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, to keep it not. I think we should finish this sentence after July 31st, 2021. Period.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Uh, so, um, I of course think this works just fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So mine is a little different from Paul's Paul. I made yours. I made it shorter. Okay. Um, I added the most significant thing is a charge to the advisory committee where it says, I don't know how that just happened.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The way that we charge is the advisory committee with the task of vetting names submitted for consideration and weighing the relative strength of submissions against a criteria they will develop. The criteria will include but not be limited to such factors as the potential for the name to bring the community together. the ability for the name to stand as a role model for Medford students, and the name as a representation of the Medford community's proud history. Furthermore, the advisory committee is charged with narrowing the field of names to three finalists. And then at that point where it says these final names, and it says either, whatever, take out that sentence. So take out number B. The final exams will be presented. So, Jenny, also the subset of A. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So there is one difference, or at least one that I remember explicitly. Member Ruseau, you had that the names of Medford schools were named after an individual and we want to continue that. I do not specify that also because not all the schools were named after an individual. Also because maybe I almost anticipated that someone might put in the name Mystic and I didn't want to not include that. So I've not defined that and I think that for me, I'd rather have it open.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't, because when you say Medford, Medford High School.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Because I interpreted it differently.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, obviously- That's not true, and it hasn't always been true in the past.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, I feel like- Does Mystic count as a connection to Medford? Is that okay? Yes. Oh, okay. So I was just seeing it just as only, but it does mean that nobody can put in Da Vinci.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. I kind of like Da Vinci. Everything's named after him.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Galileo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Galileo, are you sure you just, you know, if we just now put it, then we can see what they come up with.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Melanie, in the charge, I wrote that the committee will come up with what they're measuring names against. And one of the measurements is the connection to Medford. So it is there. OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, that's fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. This really comes to my discussion with Rick Orlando, who co-chaired the Building the Future Committee when we built the new. He said the first thing that was really important is for the committee to come up with the criteria that they're going to measure their decisions against so that they've got some agreed standard. And he said that was really probably the most important thing that they did in making it flow so easily. So I thought that was important.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'll read this, our normal paragraph. Please be advised on Wednesday, March 10th, from 4 to 5.30 PM, there will be a curriculum subcommittee meeting held through remote participation via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to review the ELA language arts curriculum in the Medford Public Schools, pursuant to Governor Baker's March 12th, 2020 order suspending certain provisions of the open meeting law. and the governor's March 15th order imposing strict limitations of the number of people who may gather in one place, this meeting of the Medford School Committee will be conducted via remote participation to the greatest extent possible. Specific information and the general guidelines for remote participation by members of the public and or parties with the right or requirement to attend this meeting can be found on the city of Medford website www.medfordmass.org. For this meeting, members of the public who wish to listen or watch the meeting may do so by accessing the meeting link contained herein. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings in real time via technological means. In the event that we are unable to do so, despite best efforts, we will post on the City of Medford or Medford Community Media websites an audio or video recording transcript or other comprehensive record of proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting. The meeting can be viewed through Medford Community Media on Comcast Channel 22 and Verizon Channel 43 at 4 p.m. Medford Public Schools is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting, mps02155-org-.zoom.us. The number is 933-2658-3171, which is the meeting ID. For a phone number, it's 1-301-7158-592. Any questions or comments can be submitted during the meeting by emailing pvanderclude at medford.k12.ma.us. Those submitting must include the following information, your first and last name, your Medford street address, and your question or comment. On the agenda today, we have a review of the English language arts curriculum in the Medford public schools, humanities director, Dr. Nicole Piazza. Superintendent, do you want to say anything before we begin?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Thanks, Maurice and Dr. Chiesa.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Suzanne.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, please. Go ahead, Sharon.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sharon, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dr. Chiesa, I see that we have one more hand raised. I'm gonna ask Maureen if you could keep it pretty short, because we need to get to the end of the presentation and then reflect back. So Maureen, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dr. Kayes, can I interrupt for just one second? Could you be clear? You said that you would be recommending, at which point would you be recommending a new reading program date-wise? Is that in next spring?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Would every school have a pilot program?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, and the goal would be to adopt the program K to five. Yes. Okay, I mean, I certainly understand that as a parent who might have a, you know, second grader, they're counting and saying, oh, that's not gonna be made it, you know, for two years. Yes. I'm walking back a little bit and say, well, there'll be something tried in your school, but that's always the very hard part as our, as we look at rollouts for new curriculum.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Dr. Chiesa, do you want to continue on? Yes, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dr. Chiesa, thank you for your presentation. The first thing I'm going to ask you is for clarification, just so is the LexiaCorp V at 39,000, is that then would be a recurring yearly cost? And last year- Correct, that is correct. Last year it came out of the CARES money and- Yeah, go ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So they give it to you once for free because, and then they hope you get 40,000 plus.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. You know, I'm not saying we don't need it, and we certainly want the best for our students. It's just in terms of planning and knowing that that's a cost, it's significant.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to, first if, Suzanne?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I see Jenny has her hand raised. Jenny, unmute, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I see Susie your hand is raised. You're muted.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Let's see. Thank you, Susie. Are there any other questions? Comments? Anybody want to add anything? Sharon Hayes, I see that you've got your hand raised.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry, my video's off.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you. Dr. Chiesa, I'd like to just ask you one question. I know earlier this week, was it this week or last week, you had a meeting with the mayor. Yes, it was last week with the mayor and a group of parents who are very concerned about dyslexia in our system. Could you just tell us, just kind of sum up the sense of what we're doing and what their concerns are going forth. Do you think that the proposal is meeting the issues? Will our new pick be comprehensive for this dyslexic issue?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I, yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. Thank you. Okay. Any other questions or comments? If not, I would entertain a motion to adjourn. Motion to adjourn? Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you all so very much. Dr. Chiesa.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yep. I think we're on at 545 again. Is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And Peter, is Peter still on?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Peter, I need to talk to you for a second. So everybody else goodbye. Thank you. Bye bye. Hold on one second, because we are still recording. So just give me one minute.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi, so this is a very extensive, it was an extensive meeting, so I'm going to condense the minutes for the purpose of just sort of summarizing the meeting. We had two presentations that evening. The first was from Molly Leighton, director of our technology. She spoke to the curriculum and what's covered in each of the grade levels. She also spoke to questions like, what are her future goals? She wants to expand the library makerspace, expansion of student tech help desks, bring girls who code club Medford Public Schools and build course pathways. Full-time librarians in all schools with certified school librarian tech integration leaders. She did note that the department is light. Part of that, of course, is due to the tragic death of a staff member. One of the things that she also spoke of about was that computer skills, it's not just the computer classes, but also embedding skills within the curriculum across the board. So it's not a standalone. So example, writing on the computer, for example, using a slideshow to present a science project. Tech teachers had to teach proficiently with keyboards for MCAS, use it throughout the day, and now extremely important that everyone has a Chromebook. So member Graham asked about a new curriculum. Ms. Layden said, I don't think so. So this year and last year, we have supported staff and students how to use Google Classrooms, emails, online research tools. Some of those things will continue to evolve depending on needs. More a skill set than a set curriculum. Ms. Layden talked about the influx of tech funding, which of course was a positive. And I asked about how do we support our classroom teachers? Are we doing enough to support our teachers in areas they don't feel comfortable with Google Classroom, et cetera? Ms. Layden responded that library and tech teachers work hand in hand with classmates, teachers reinforcing and assisting when needed. Again, she went back and talked about the library staff is stretched thin and this of course has ramifications for what they can accomplish. So I would sum that up. I asked about the other things that we need as a committee to be aware of for budget requests. And she said, the ordered Chrome tables for kindergarten finally arrived, as did the document cameras for teachers. So those were very delayed in arriving, but they're finally here. Instructional labs will need upgrading for coding. We would look to build in a replacement budget for the future. Okay, the next presentation was by Dr. Riccadeli, who spoke to us about the world language curriculum. Much of this discussion really focused on the middle school level and whether French should be added as an option. There's a great deal of interest. I think one of the points which, I saw some level of where it wasn't fully decided as Dr. Riccadeli was suggesting that it would start off with grade six next year to offer French. She suggested that we have staff who's already able to speak French, but I know that there was also expressed by member Graham, any interest in having that extended at least into grade seven and possibly grade eight. We adjourned at 530.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I always think that we had a discussion about sort of two different things. One was the front entrance and doing that with a sign and nice, as our community member presented. The other was the, looking into a banner that might go along the whole front of the building, just to be, add a little bit more sparkle, if you would, a little bit more, you know, interest in it. I don't think right now we were getting to the point where it was just final, this is what we would do, but because there were cost concerns, like how much is a banner? I think that the, you know, from my point of view, I was definitely interested in making the front of the school clear, clear cut, name, nice, whatever. But if the banner is a not too expensive way of also bringing some excitement to the building, I think we should look into it. So just to get a price. Yes, just to get a price, just to have an understanding of what we're talking about.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, there were four altogether. The first one I'm going to read has to do with MCAS. It was submitted by Eileen Manziel of 42 Winter Street. She writes, question, what are the new dates for MCAS testing? Are parents still able to opt out their child children if they so choose? Sincerely, Eileen Manziel.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Galusi. Next email, please. So there are three more emails regarding the Columbus School. Mayor, do you wish me to read them now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. what your preference is. Okay, thank you. So, and I'll keep on checking. Thank you very much, Member Van der Kloot.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor? Yes, Member Van der Kloot. So I do need to let you know that we received a letter on this topic. I can hold it until the presentation, if that would be preferable.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I just, these were just great. I really, really liked seeing them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Please let me know if my audio starts going bad. I noted tonight we've had more audio problems than usual. So let me know. I am reading, received a letter to the school committee account from a parent, Adrianne Preby. I'm going to paraphrase it since many of the things were answered, but I think it's important for you to hear her viewpoint. She says, my name is Adrienne Preby of 61 Locust Street. I sent this to school administrators but did not receive a reply, so I'm sending it here. The decision to take away a family's choice in switching back and forth from hybrid to remote as they feel is safest for them due to the ever-shifting nature of COVID case counts as a clear breach of trust of families. How exactly do you intend to enforce this policy after March 18th? She does ask whether we have considered asking a waiver. I think most importantly, though, the thing I want to mention is she says, additionally, all communications about this new policy only add that families will be able to remain fully remote as an afterthought, barely emphasizing this crucial fact. And she feels that this is trying to pressure families into choosing the in-person learning model. So I'm not certain, I don't, I know what exactly, you know, whether that was the last thing said or the first, but I just wanna make it clear that to parents that they can choose the remote model and we're anticipating that they could stay in the remote model to the end of this year, is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, so I really think that what she's saying is that because maybe in our communication, she saw the emphasis on yes, you can stay fully remote as maybe not front and center at the beginning.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just relaying that the parent feels that this change is not something she's happy with. And she did not feel that it was emphasized that she could stay. That's all I'm saying.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's not a point of- Her words, not mine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van de Kloot. Yes. So the question is, um, uh, I think this is great. Uh, I'd like to be able to wave them all the time. What's the financial impact and how are we going to cover the loss?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, that's, that's great. I make a motion to approve the recommendation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So first, I do want to, we held off some letters from the beginning. And so I do want to comment on those. However, before I read those, I'm just going to say, I understood the purposes of putting the, that member Rousseau told me was that his purpose was to send his resolution to the committee of the whole on Wednesday. And so I submitted mine as well, so that it would go to the committee of the whole. Resolutions that are put forth just to explain to our viewers are to work out, hammer out a procedure for an advisory council and also a timeline for the renaming of the Columbus School, which was voted on back in June. They are very lengthy because there are many important issues in this. in the question. So my intent was that it was not going to be discussed line by line tonight, but that I wanted everybody to get a chance to see it. I do have great concerns about the timing. I mentioned that tonight, but I'm sure we'll be talking about that on Wednesday. Now, we received some letters regarding the Columbus issue I'm going to, the first one received was from Betsy Lister and long time resident. I thought I saw Betsy on. She actually did not put her address on here. Is Betsy on?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: She is a long time, four decades, Medford resident, a business owner in town for over 20 years.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Vidikul, how many emails do you have? I think there's three now, but another one on a different topic has come in.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, to all. I've been a long time, four decades, Medford resident, business owner in town for over 28 years. I'm a past president of what was known as the Salem Street Business Association for three years, a past board member of Temple Shalom here in the city, and my son went to the Columbus School. The direction I see the city going in is one that will hold terrible consequences for the children and grandchildren of future generations, of the city. This Marxist-communistic leftist agenda that's being forced down the throats of parents and children is heinous, contains so much hatred and racial divide, it's out and outright despicable and has no business in the city, never mind the school system. Why on earth are children not being taught the important things that will get them through life? Why are they being indoctrinated into a narrative that's full of hate and divides people by color and social status? Why are they being taught about BLM and Antifa? Why not teach them our history as it happens so that they will know not to repeat it in the future to be learning from the past? All men are created equal, says the Constitution. So that's what we should be taught in school, period. Not divide by skin color or ethnic background. They are all children and children love unless they are taught otherwise. And teaching hatred in school has no business being there at all. Teach the children they are all equal and to love one another and their neighbors, not to put a line of division between themselves and others. I'm disgusted with the new rev, that and they all need to go. In fact, I'm thinking the entire school committee needs to be dissolved immediately because it's harming the children by dividing the community unnecessarily. We're better than that. I doubt that the majority of Medford parents want their children brought up with Marxist beliefs. We already know that academia consists of 98% liberals and the rest conservatives, so that should be addressed as well so that children's minds are not poisoned any further. It's a very long letter. Sorry, that was my own comment. Recently, I heard an audio clip of an eighth grade class with their teacher. He asked them if they knew who Helen Keller was. The response ranged from a man and a German spy. Only one child in the entire classroom said, oh, that was that blind person. By the way, she's not referring to a Medford classroom. The teacher then required if any of the children knew who Hitler was and they were clueless, no idea, and couldn't respond at all. Imagine not knowing who Hitler was in the eighth grade. And finally, he asked, do you know what D-Day is? And the answer was a rapper. Think about that for a minute. What are our kids being taught? Items of importance or a leftist Marxist agenda? I'm not a perfect person. I've sinned in my life and I have enough sense to know what I'm seeing being pushed through in Medford schools is just wrong. And although I'm not a Christian, I believe that most parents would agree that what's being taught in the Medford school system doesn't go along with their Christian or Judaic values. Seems the leftist took God out of the schools to shame. And as for the Columbus School renaming goes, there's no reason at all to change the name. I know Andrea Bocelli is quite the performer, but he means nothing to me at all. Nor do I think who he is makes any sense to plaster his name on an educational building. This is not Disney, nor is it Hollywood. And the name Columbus has served the school very well for decades upon decades. For all of his sins, he's the reason most of us are here for crying out loud. This is the senseless and waste our time and poses a distraction to the real issue. What's being taught to the children in the direction that the city is going. We have elected a mayor who has turned her back on the people who elected her and chooses to do her personal bidding. Yeah. You know, there's a level of, yeah. Not on our own political stance. Take a knee for BLM, but do not support your own police. Hmm. How many want to see this divide that's happening? I doubt not the majority. Hell, if I'm wrong, let me know. I was the support the police rally, and when you have children screaming, blank the police, and creating a scene and spewing hatred everywhere, it was disgusting, and everybody was shocked. These were schoolchildren telling us to go. yeah, and ourselves and the police and worse. I got hit off the head with a sign by a teenager who teaches these kids this. Common sense has left the city and needs to be brought back. If we don't teach our true history as it was, the kids will go back thinking D-Day is a rapper. Stop destroying the city's monuments and institutions by bringing a divide. Rather instead, take a step back and start trying to love one another and want better for our children. And stop this absolute nonsense and pay attention to what the kids are being taught and worry about their future as opposed to the name of the building of where they get their education. Sign me more than mad in Medford that it's come to this juncture, Betsy Lister. OK, so that's the first letter. Yep, two more. The second letter on this topic comes from Medford United and Eunice Brown. And she's transmitted to us a packet of information So it says, dear May Lungo current school committee members and superintendent Edouard-Vincent, as concerned citizens of Medford, Massachusetts, we submit the documentation to support our position. The name of the Columbus school should remain unchanged. We strongly believe in the proposed name, believe the proposed name change is unnecessary. This packet includes several components, this cover letter, a hard copy of the petition description that was circulated, online and hard copy petitions that have been signed by current and former Medford residents who oppose the name change. Total signatures 2,100. Medford residents signatures 650 plus. Differential in signatures, individuals who may not currently resign in Medford, but who have grown up in the city and who continue to have family ties or business interests in Medford. Regarding the handwritten sheets of petitions collected, in some case, the signer signed for him or herself. In other cases, written permission was received to sign for them. That is why you will see signatures with the same handwriting. One petition site that we use required that we email the URL to the results to you. That is the GO petition site, and that was the most recent petition circled and has thus far netted us 21 names, 15 of which are Medford residents. Those results will be sent email to the official school committee email. Information regarding Christopher Columbus is point number four. I think that must be in the packet. Number five, information regarding the Italian-American alliance. We believe that it is a strong sampling of the true sentiments of the Medford community. We want our voices to be heard. It is disturbing that such a monumental decision that changes the fabric of our city was decided with a sheer lack of transparency and community input. A decision of this magnitude should have been advertised far and wide across all media platforms and far in advance of a meeting. It should not have been advertised only to meet the letter of the law. This is unconscionable. We are deeply disappointed that any steps taken to move forward on this matter are considered ethnically biased, disrespectful, and thoughtless, insulting multiple generations of Italian-Americans who grew up, lived in, attended, and supported and contributed to the Columbus School as well as the city of Medford. For Italian Americans, this school name has and will always be a source of pride and history. This is a passionate and personal issue for many on. on both sides and with other urgent matters much higher on the priority list that our city is facing, we are putting forth our best efforts to stop the Medford School Committee from changing the name of the Columbus School. On Friday, March 5th, Educational Commissioner Riley ordered all elementary school students must return to in-person learning effective April 5th. This should be the school committee's only priority at this time. To quote a school committee member and their, And there is a budget, quite possibly the most contentious budget ever, that we will be attempting to craft at the same time as replanning this year and planning next year. It would be a gross abdication of responsibility to the children of Medford to spend time right now on the renaming of a school when issues directly related to the well-being of our children are smack in front of them. We request that our discussion regarding changing the name of the Columbus School be tabled at this time until our children have returned to school safely for the remainder of the academic year. Budget issues are managed and there is a plan in place to return our children to the academic year 21-22. Thank you for your consideration, sincerely concerned citizens of Medford. And then I have one more. on this subject. This was submitted by Brenna Christensen. Dear Mayor Lungo-Koehn and members of the Medford School Committee, my name is Brenna Christensen and I am a graduate of the class of 2020 from Medford High School and a former captain of the varsity softball team. I write to you today to request a name change to Columbus Memorial Park the Crystal Campbell Field and to incorporate the name changing of the field to the future name change committee. So she's recommending that we change the name of the Columbus School to the Crystal Campbell School. Crystal Campbell was a Medford native, a victim of the Boston Marathon bombings. She was an active member in our Mustang community and was in the band along with the softball team. Crystal Campbell was known to light up any room she walked into and she loved sunflowers. She is an inspiration to our city, our home, our residents, and our athletes. Since 2013, the varsity softball team has held the Crystal Campbell Softball Tournament in mid-April at the Columbus Park Softball Field. During the two-day tournament, us Mustangs competed against Boricua, Swampscott, and Arlington Catholic High School. We actively fundraised during the tournament and throughout our season to donate to the Crystal Campbell Scholarship Fund. On this day, our community comes together as one and united. We are truly Medford strong. Although this tournament may only be two days out of the year, during our entire season, we wear her name on our jersey. And we wear it with immense pride. It's a day when we give back to the community and honor Crystal's legacy. Not only is the Columbus Park field home to our high school Mustang softball team, we share this field with our youth softball program and baseball as well. We meet our forever friends, learn sportsmanship along with the importance of responsibility. But for all of that, we make memories that will last a lifetime. Each and every play on that field, we keep crystal close to our hearts and play in our honor. I respectfully ask that we use our Medford strength, come together as one and rename our fields. Let's continue the pride we feel when we wear Campbell on our jerseys and with a positive change to our city, the city we all love and with gratitude get to call home. Thank you. Kind regards, Brenda Christensen, 80 Fern Road. So excuse me, she may be asking just for the fields to carry the name and we would do that under a separate consideration, but we might forward her email to the advisory council anyway.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, can I just, there's a curriculum subcommittee meeting from 4 to 5.30. I think originally people thought this meeting, our Committee of the Whole was going to be at 5.30, so just to repeat, it starts at 5.45. Correct.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so the one thing I just want to say is that the resolution that I'm sending to the Committee of the Whole talks about timeline as does Member Ruseau's. This is quite separate from and different from discussing the key issue. We've already made a decision that the school would be renamed. I understand that there are very feelings about this and I certainly understand that there are people who are very angry about the process that was used right at the beginning. In terms of the timing and us concentrating on what we need to, it was my intent after spending a great deal of time working out the potential for the advisory council to discuss the timeline with the committee at that point. To do so tonight without having reviewed the resolutions just simply won't make any sense. It'll be random. So while I appreciate hearing from my former colleague, the intent was to send the resolution to the subcommittee to discuss timelines and processes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I referenced this earlier. I very much in good faith went through the process of looking in detail with thanks to my colleague who I used his as a basis to work through all of the issues that I think the advisory council has. Who's going to be on the advisory council? What are they going to do? How are they going to report it out? Who's going to pick the names, et cetera? Um, My concern is having done that exercise is while in it, I kept the dates except for one week of that Paul had originally put in his, I don't think it's real. I just don't think there's enough time to have a good reflective process, a thorough process for the advisory council. I'm not saying that we should overturn our decision about Columbus, which I know many in the community would like. For me, the most important thing is to try and figure a path forward, which brings us unity. Earlier this evening, we heard those voices of our kids. And as I was listening to the voices of our kids, I was thinking about this discussion that we were gonna have here. which has been feeling such division. And in our kids, we hear the hope and the desire for unity. I think that the advisory council needs time to do its job well and not rushed. As I've gotten older, I have more and more of appreciation for that word reflection. Okay, getting a chance to think about what we're doing and what name. I have put in mind a chance for a public hearing, not to debate the issue of Columbus, but to look at the new names. All along, I've been hopeful that we could come up with something that would honor our Italian heritage in this community, but also bring the community together. We're not gonna do that fast. It's not a slam dunk. I know that there's much pain with the thought of even prolonging the process a minute longer. I know that I don't really want it to go through this for month after month, but I am very, very concerned that in our short term, we do have a lot to do. My feeling is, and again, we can go through, I think going through the process of looking at the process outlined for the advisory council is instructive in terms of saying, whoa, what are you doing? How are we gonna set this advisory council together? So that it is really a strong and works to bring the community together. Anyway, that's my two cents. I expected to have this discussion on Wednesday.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Present.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just so you know, you can ask either member to do that as secretary.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You just might mention the cost.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There we go. The mayor has her hand up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And there we go. So if you'd let her go first.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So just, Kathy, may I? Yes, you may. Yes, go ahead. To be clear then, is the money for this generator, has it already been appropriated or has it not been appropriated?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So right now, while this generator has not been operationable, we're just running off of one generator? The other generator is what I understand?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: John, the other day when I went up to attend the Haitian dance class, which was really fun, it was so hot in the gym. Does that have something to do with the generator or that's just a completely different issue?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, but the generator, and Kathy, there was actually two bills. There were two different bills. One was for about 120 something, and the other one was for about 58, if I recall, that you sent out to us. So is it the combination of those two bills that you're saying we need? So 180, roughly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, it's 128 plus 58, I think, right, Kathy? Yes. And I mean, so we're talking, you know, 130 plus 60.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: In a budget which is going to be tight. And now am I hearing that this is an emergency? You know, to get through next year, is that what?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Was this in our former capital plan?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But what you're saying is we need to come up with roughly 200K to get this generator.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would second that motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On that motion, Paul Rousseau? Yes. Paulette Van der Kloot? Yes. Kathy Kreatz? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Not this time around, but last time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: HAB-Masyn Moyer-Moyer): So Kathy. Yeah. While you work on that one of the questions you had up is an important one. HAB-Masyn Moyer-Moyer): And HAB-Masyn Moyer-Moyer): ADA compliant. HAB-Masyn Moyer-Moyer): Can can vehicle still drive on it. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Kathy Mayer?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I know that for ADA, it's, I think if I recall, it's one inch per foot or something like that. There's a very prescribed amount that the rise happens. It's a very gradual rise. Is there enough room to, and if you think about, you know, the actual ramp that's there, you know, it goes back and forth in order to accommodate that very gentle slope. Looking at the front of the school at the ramp that we're talking about, which I express great concerns about the safety of on many occasions, But is there enough rise to make it into an ADA? Is there enough room to create the rise, that gentle slope to make it into ADA compliant? Oh, I would, I would.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Cha-ching, cha-ching.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So, Kathy. Go ahead, Mr. Antiquity just wants to chime in. She said.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So anyway, the concern I have is, you know, as soon as we start just the discussion around the ADA compliance, it does get very expensive. And the question now is, you know, again, that vision committee hasn't gotten off the ground yet. You know, how much money Are we going to, we all agree that some level of upgrade would be nice just to make it look better right away. I've brought a safety concern with the current configuration saying, look, do we put a handrail in? Can a truck still use it? But I understand it's not ADA compliant, that particular ramp, but we've always used the other ramp If, you know, right now, I think that there's a question of, I mean, we just have to be mindful of the money. Now, there was another drawing you shared with us today, just with the Mustang and welcome Mustangs, whatever. I, you know, I'm really, of course, I would love it to be officially ADA compliant throughout every ramp, but I'm just wondering whether we really have the money to go down that route right now and how much money do we want to invest? I mean, I loved Klaus's drawings. I absolutely loved them. And that obviously is, you know, just gets you excited. But there is a trade-off between how much we do. And I'm kind of on the fence about that right now when I think about what financial picture we face in the very short term.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dave has his hand up, Kathy.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kathy?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There was another photo that you shared with us, and it had the picture of the horse and blue columns on the outside. It was really a cosmetic upgrade. I had seen that picture when you sent it to us. that did not look like that was part of a very large or structural. It wasn't part of a structural upgrade. It was part of a cosmetic upgrade. And I wondered, that was the first time that I remember seeing that particular photo. I don't know, don't remember that being as part of Klaus's, I'm not sure. So can you-
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, just so that you know what we're talking about.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandeku? Right. So I would like to make a motion that we ask central administration to explore the costs by talking to Mr. Fallon and other people who might have some expertise in this area to how much it would be to pursue the concept of Mr. Dunovan, which we see as it's a, You know, it's not a whole redo. I'm getting off here. I should just make that, you know, but how much that would cost. And also, I'd like to also ask that we explore the idea of the banner in the front. I don't see them as mutually, you know, one or the other. I think both have great potential. I really love marking the door with a little bit more excitement, and I love having a canvas, especially if we have our students input into what sort of things we might include on that, how to make it bright. And I'd love to know what the costs are associated with that. So Peter, if you would, you might give direction to that. To make my resolution more compact, that we explore the costs of the front entranceway and possibly a banner for the front side of the building.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, you're done, right? Yes, thank you. So I just have to say that this is really an outstanding review for a new superintendent, or a still newish superintendent, if you would. That not one of the numbers is lower than a three, and most of them are 3.5 or higher is just truly remarkable. So, you know, the overall picture that we see here is of a very strong performance by the superintendent. For the sake of the audience, I just want to mention that it's a numbers we were reading was a score. each of the committee members rated the superintendent. One was the lowest rating that she could receive in an area and four was the highest. And we could differentiate by doing a 3.5. But what you're seeing is that in all areas, the superintendent had a very strong showing where not only the majority of the committee, but the whole committee thought that she was doing work of three or higher. Remembering 4.0 is the very highest. And we saw the breakdown of the sheets in some areas, people gave her fours completely. You know, we did it a little bit differently. In the future, I'd like to spend a little bit more time talking through each of the areas with my fellow committee members, just so that we're all sure that we're rating the particular item in the correct way. But again, really, congratulations, Superintendent. I have to say this is a very, very strong showing. And I think that when you opened it up today, we must have seen that that smile must have lit up your office for sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, I don't know. We always did them in public or we did a, you know, spoke about our evaluations in public. Then they were given to the superintendent. I would assume that it's just a public, you know, paper, which is available to the public, but I don't know how we want to post it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, we probably should. I don't know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I don't know. It's because it's a committee of the whole, not a subcommittee. But yes, usually we would move something from the committee of the whole to the regular.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Tom, congratulations. Congratulations, Tom.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You didn't call my name.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor? Member Van der Kloot? Through you, through the chair, First, I want to thank the committee for laying this out and Paul for the work you were doing on this. I think it's an excellent working document to have at our disposal. The one thing I wasn't certain if I saw, and I could be terribly wrong, but I didn't see super, I saw goals, but superintendent's evaluation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I saw district goals, but I didn't see any specificity around self-evaluation or, you know, that that would be part of what the school committee can expect on an annual basis.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, we receive, if I may, we receive from the superintendent her, and we need to expect to receive the self-evaluation. Yep, yep. Right, so that's, again, and I'm thinking as if I were a new member looking at this, that if it was put on that, oh yeah, one of the things I'm gonna get is the superintendent's evaluation, and that's gonna start the process. So in my mind, I think it's appropriate. Of course, I understand the committee deliberated it a long time, but that was my question. Again, the other, I think you did a great job.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, exactly. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There are no emails today. I do want to mention that there is a curriculum subcommittee from 4 to 5.30 this Wednesday. We're going to be going back to what was on the agenda for a meeting that was canceled, had to do with our world language program and also technology.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess to that point, is the orchestra playing?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to thank Ms. Nunley for her presentation. And I was curious, Alicia, could you send this to us? Because there was a lot in it and a few things I'd really like to go back and take a look at more. So again, appreciate the report. Please send it to us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, well, Mr. Murphy just referenced this, but, and he said it would not necessarily solve the problem, but I can't, in order to address some of my colleagues' concerns, can we post where we have our budget, a page explaining additional funding was coming from the supplemental, and then, you know, you know, doing the addition or whatever and the final number, just to make it clear and to keep track.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. If you could do that, I think that that would at least be a start.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So clearly what you're expressing to us is it's a fluid situation so that when you post it, you can post it with that caveat as well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, again, I'd like to thank Ms. Nunley, and I'd like to make a motion to accept their report and put it on file.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We did, well, we received the report.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, and in our conversation, I did ask Ms. Nunley to send it to us, which I trust she will, but it is typical that you receive a report and place it on file. So, I don't have any reason to... not think that this presentation then counts. Paul, it's the way that you move on the conversation when we don't have another motion to approve. This is the way that we end the discussion and move on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I'll make the motion to say, I mean, Ms. Nunley already said to me that she was going to supply to us, but I make a motion that the director, the city director of finance supply to the school committee, a copy of her report.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes so first I want to thank my colleague Melanie McLaughlin for bringing this to our attention. I know there was a phone call a couple of days afterwards and I know I was on it and Melanie was on it and in fact took a, you know, participated and Dr. Edouard-Vincent was on it as well. I think that probably really helped that you both were there. And I just, I don't know exactly, is there a dollar amount attached to this or is it more in terms of hours of training or how is it stipulated? member McLaughlin. Oh, sorry, Dr. Edouard-Vincent, and then member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I'm done. I just, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, there's one that, is separate from the rest. It's from Cynthia Kinnan. Cynthia lives at 156 George Street, and she has given me permission to paraphrase it and stick to main points. She writes, I want to express that I see a full return to in-person school or failing that a fully in-person option for all students next year as vital. As a parent and an economist, I've been following the research on the consequences of disrupted schooling for both children and parents, and I find them very concerning. While the evidence on the possibility of safe return to school from a public health perspective is quite promising. Columbus, where my son is in kindergarten and has done a terrific job under extremely tough circumstances, as has the district as a whole. The weekly COVID testing program is wonderful. Nonetheless, hybrid rather than fully in-person school has been very challenging for our family. Of course, teacher and student safety is paramount for the return to fully in-person school next fall. I would appreciate guidance from the school district on what I and other parents can do now and going forward to help ensure the conditions are in place for a full return to in-person school in the fall. I hope that by furthering this conversation now, we can make sure that there is time to get the necessary funding and resources in place for next fall. Mayor, there are also many letters pertaining to the Columbus School discussion, which is later on in our agenda. So perhaps we should save them to that point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What's the date?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There we go. I just want to mention how wonderful it was to have the opportunity to join in the middle school assembly this past week. Frankly, you know, as a school committee member, one of the great joys is to be able to see our students in action and when we've been all On Zoom, that's been harder to do. So bringing us this assembly, getting to see our kids and a lot of them, it was just great. So thank you and thanks to all the students and of course to their leadership, Mr. Skorka, Ms. Olson, Mr. Trotta and everybody else who's involved. It's something that makes us feel very proud.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to let my fellow committee members know that both the mayor and I, the superintendent, Mr. Murphy, Mr. Cushing, were I think I've got everybody. We're in attendance at the request of Pat Jalen. I was invited as vice chair to represent the committee. And Pat had set up, excuse me, Senator Jalen had set up a Zoom call with DESE, their finance people to talk about the impact of the charter school tuitions on our budget, which is extreme. The mayor alluded to the approximately $1 million. In truth, it becomes even more than that, closer to a million and a quarter when something else is factored in. It's very clear that the people we were talking about were budget people. It's their job to simply implement the formula and not to do anything about it. Our entire delegation was there, Senator Jayland, Representatives Donato, Garbley, and Barber. Paul Donato spoke to the fact that last year, we also sort of fell into this little pit where our funding was lower and they had put together some legislation. When we spoke, and I was quite adamant about the impact of how starting with a million and a quarter blow, in our funding would impact us. There's some discussion about what the legislators have to do to try and help us with this issue. Right now, though, the reality of it is, is the way the funding formula works. We really get sucker punched. And our delegation is totally aware and totally desirous of being helpful. It may be advantageous for us to invite them to a committee meeting at some point. with a follow-up and talk about what other options, what can we do? Because right now, I mean, you know, it's a real issue.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have a question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Is there a role for the school committee in being able to attend any of the sessions or how is that envisioned?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, no, I just wanted to second it. I didn't know if anybody had.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, I feel like that I need to convey to the committee, and I'm sure many committee members know because we've received so many emails to our personal accounts, but there were many submitted to the school committee account as well. We had roughly 30 letters all of which were similar, saying to us, please don't continue this discussion, don't change the name, and suggesting that this was the wrong time and the timing would distract us from other work. The letters were similar, so I know that committee members have seen them. If I were to read them all, it would take several hours of our time right now. Conversely, we also received almost an equal number supporting the name change with people. The letters were a little bit more different, more, diverse in their discussions, but again asking that we do keep to our intent. There was one submitted I want to mention in particular by a third grade student who also asked us please to keep to our intent. So clearly people thought that we might be changing. There was also a petition submitted by Medford United I think it is appropriate for me to just read this. It says please join Medford Mass residents in signing this petition requesting the Medford Mass School Committee and it names us immediately rescind their vote to change the name of the Columbus Elementary School in operation since 1929. The name change was approved without community input. Community input and transparency should be sought before major decisions are made. Please sign the petition so we may right this wrong and be the vibrant community we are. There were 395 Medford residents on this, but more than, and with 1,426 additional names. On this, It is our custom to ask for addresses. It was just signed with names on the emails I was receiving, you know, I don't think people are necessarily clear all the times that they're supposed to have their address as well. So I started writing back to people, but frankly, there were so many kind of got out of hand. All of these will be submitted to be part of the record. I'll work with Susie on that tomorrow so that we're sure that they're read into the record or they're written into the record. I think at this point, what I hear your intent is that we're gonna go ahead with the meeting we have, but I do want you to, I wanted to present both the pro and the con and the very deep feelings that people have both ways, very deep feeling. And if I can interject a personal note, The question is in this very difficult discussion for in our community because it is and has been divisive is how can we come together in a positive way. And that is my deepest hope is that we will find a way to find some common language and common desire around this issue. so that, in fact, it doesn't divide us, but it brings us together in celebration of a rich Italian culture, which maybe isn't defined by the name Columbus.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I guess one of the things which I'm wondering is if there's a way, you know, we need some help, I think, bringing our community together on this. And, you know, I think it's deeply painful to see such a large rift and people on both sides, you know, obviously very committed, but I don't see yet, you know, I don't see a bridge forward. And if anybody, you know, I'm wondering whether there's any sort of any steps we can take, and if any community members have some thoughts in this of how we can help bridge this. I know that many people have suggested that we understand the Italian community's concern about losing a landmark that is important to them. And so many of us, you know, there's so many different names that could possibly be considered. If we were to not only, you know, to think about it in a broader sense as an opportunity, You know, I personally feel it's extremely important. I know when I first came to Medford, I found myself delightfully surrounded in a neighborhood where, you know, by a wonderful warm Italian family. who took us in, who was so valuable to my own adjustment to Medford, and where I learned about gravy rather than sauce. And I'm just wondering, again, whether there's a, people are very strongly feeling they're negative about taking away Columbus, but I just wanna, is there any potential of going forward and thinking about, is there any place where we might move towards honoring our Italian heritage in this community with a different name. So I just want to throw that out and say, you know, I'm hoping that somebody might start thinking about that in a positive way.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: By the way, and the only other thing I did want to mention is we had originally said it was important for our students at the Columbus to be involved. And so I want to make sure we don't forget that piece.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Excuse me, if I could interrupt for a second. I was just made aware of a mistake which I made, and it's important enough to interrupt and say that the person who wrote it to me is correct. What I didn't say was that I also, when we were talking about the Columbus School emails, I also had received several emails from members of the Italian American community who were not in support of the Columbus name. And the person who wrote me said that she did not want people to think that all of residents of the Italian community were of one mind. So I wanted to make that correction and to be clear. Again, we'll give you the email so that everybody can see that. So I'm so sorry and appreciate the correction.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, actually on this one, I do disagree because I think that we're going to have so many questions around how different things are going to be handled as we're coming out of the pandemic. However, I will vote along with it if we can add a caveat that we would be informed about the field trip. I mean, so that we can follow up with questions. For example, you know, does that cover, we were going to have kids going to Hawaii, well, what if, or Italy or whatever, you know, does that mean that that wouldn't be brought before us? It was scheduled in this past, you know, so I'm just, I don't know, a little bit, I do think that there's things that we would particularly want the committee members would particularly be interested, especially since we have a lot of responsibility in this area.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Paul, would you be okay if we just added a sentence that the school committee will be informed? By email? Yeah, by email prior to- Absolutely, yes. A trip taking place? Yes, that sounds great. Just so we have some opportunity to ask questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Paul, I would be comfortable with upon approval from the superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't, as a school committee member, I don't personally need to do it, but I wanna make sure that there is a check in place because there have been differing circumstances. So if I can add, upon approval by the superintendent, I'm fine with it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You have any scars yet?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Would you be coming out and back in public, Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to also extend our thanks to Charlene Douglas and to the members of the negotiating team. It's a lot of work. It was many hours. I remember how many meetings, you know, throughout the summer you guys attended. Sometimes tensions ran high. But it is certainly great work and our teachers do great work every day, educating our kids, getting them back into school. And Charlene, I personally want to thank you for your leadership and for getting this done. So thank you very much and to your team.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm all set mayor. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is one letter from the public.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So this email, which came in at 3.49 this afternoon, says, hello all. I didn't see it on the posted agenda, but I'm wondering if it is possible to get an update on the status of the formation of a committee to make plans for next steps of the Columbus name change. Thank you. Submitted by Emma Heffron, 18 Curtis Street. If you recall, we actually had a letter last week. We did say that would be on, I thought it was going to be on today's agenda. So perhaps I'd make a motion that we put it on next, at our next meeting's agenda.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I also just wanted to announce that there's a curriculum subcommittee meeting this Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. We'll be discussing the global language program as well as technology. One of our members can't come. So if anybody else can, I'd love to have another member present. If you'd let me know you're available, please, I would most appreciate that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Four to six Wednesday, this Wednesday, the 27th. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Shout out, yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We received a letter from a member of the public. This is from Leticia Roca. Hello, my name is Leticia Roca of 3610 Mystic Valley Parkway. I have the following questions regarding the public health updates. One, where exactly can we find updated data about the number of staff members and students that have tested positive across the different schools? Is this on the school website? This was talked about multiple times during these meetings, but I've yet to see this information divulged consistently online in an accessible manner. Two, Tufts students are returning to campus. Will you continue to calculate the Medford positivity rate without Tufts tests? And where will this updated information be publicized consistently? And then three, has it been officially established that families have the option for remote only learning for the rest of this school year until June? If yes, where can we find this official statement by the MPS administration? Regards, Leticia.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot. Thank you. First, I want to thank you, Mr. DeLiva, for your presentation and Mr. Fallon. In regards specifically to the Tufts, were there quite a number of students who were interested?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The only thing I wondered is if there was a second student who was particularly interested, and I don't know whether that's the case, but whether we could go back to Tufts and say, hey, we've got another student who's really interested. And if that were being, I'm all hypothetical here, but if there was any thought that there was another student who was a close call, I would certainly encourage you to say, could we go back and ask? because there is a certain flexibility too with perhaps making a class of another extra student. I see Dr. Cushing has his hand up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, it's great. One can only always want more though. So thank you very much. Thank you. Dr. Cushing?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I also appreciated the job description and the intent behind it. I would second the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van de Kloot? Yes, I just think it's important to mention, since two of my colleagues mentioned that we're sort of late into the year of setting these goals, Is saying that we're so yay late because there's a pandemic and the superintendents was working as many of us noted Earlier around the clock for such a long time. And so so hard. So I just wanted to thank her for all the work that she's done at this point. And while I certainly support looking at the goals for another week and revisiting them, I just think it's really, really important to acknowledge all the incredible work the superintendent and her team has done.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can you restate the motion in our paper?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so member Rousseau, I'm a little torn here because I can actually see both sides. However, I don't think that you're correct in saying there's, we're only gonna send it to subcommittee if I'm going to get my way. The whole point of a subcommittee discussion should be an opportunity to get more input, not only from perhaps parents, but also from our educators. The high school graduation has been mentioned multiple times and you know I used to have a really hard time with it because I was like, Jesus, there's a lot of kids in this audience who, you know, they got the flu or they broke their arm or something happened and they couldn't go to school and now. But, you know, again, maybe they're They're finding satisfaction in some other ways, and there may have been kids and I certainly remember, I mean one year there was a year where there was only one kid, but one year there was like five or six and it was amazing that all those kids had really been able to go. It is called out at the high school, and it's always by the audience really appreciated and I've always felt kind of funny because I do feel kind of funny about it because I share your concerns about does it does it motivate kids but you know I never knew we gave that award until I went to the high school graduation. So I don't know how many kids know. My kids never talked about it and said, oh boy, I'm not going to get the perfect attendance award because they never, you know, it just wasn't part of their thinking. But anyway, so I totally supported going to subcommittee for the purposes of discussion and input. And I think that, you know, part of it is to be open-minded and listen to other people. And that's what I would be wanting to do.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Whatever.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, um, the thing is that it's changed, it's changed a great deal. And I personally don't think that the committee has agreed on the next step and I think we need to that that's would be the focus of mean some uniform way of presenting. So I had thought that the superintendent was going to present to us tonight. I didn't know that the expectation was that we would be giving her feedback in writing tonight, at least, or whatever. So I'd be interested in hearing what member Graham has to say.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What her expectations were.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Point of information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Melanie, I think you said in your first sentence that a rubric will be created, but the rubric already exists. It's just to create a template for us, right?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Notwithstanding all of that and the process, I think that it's only appropriate, though, and Kathy made some comments, and I know we don't want to go into large comments, so I'm just going to say this has been an extraordinarily challenging year, and I think that the superintendent has risen to the challenge in an extraordinary way.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just want to point out, Mr. Gertman had his hand raised. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So Melanie, Medford was one of the key districts. There were either six, there's been one that went in and out and whatever, but was one of the original districts that started Shore Collaborative. And so we had a very special relationship with them for a long time. We also had far more students than our present enrollment. And so the number of students has fallen as we've brought more kids back into our own programs, for example, and either sought different alternatives. One of the things about SURE was that it started out because the costs for outplacements were so high and districts working together determined that they could provide better quality programs for a lot less expense. SURE was originally directed under Hank Owens. You may know the SURE Center is called the Hank Owens Report, who was a very dynamic leader for many, many years. But that, you know, the, It's really a terrific opportunity when you are the rep, because you get to meet monthly with a school committee member from each of the member districts. And I always know when I was the rep, as Paul is now, that that was a great thing. But our membership has fallen a lot. So we still have that position. We're still one of the founding members and whatever, but we've never had that with any other out out placement.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I had put that on because, so over the years it's differed, but there were some years when we've had the student rep has asked to give a report, and it's maybe been a couple of them. Every time they do, we've asked them, say, this is terrific, this is great. and we ask them to continue to do it. Because the students change, unless we're asking for it, I don't think that they'll, the students won't necessarily know. So I put, I was one of the people who put it on saying that we've done it in the past and when we do, it's great. So we should ask that it be done at least on an annual basis. I mean, the student reps obviously are always there to be able to contribute, but I think that sometimes asking for them to give us a report has been very helpful.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Again, Paul. With food service, it was my understanding that we were supposed to have just the way we have a PAC. I think with food service, unless it's changed, we were also supposed to have a inclusive committee for food service that would also give feedback to the committee. I don't believe we met, obviously last year isn't a good comparison. But certainly for many years, we would meet yearly for food service report, which was also inclusive of issues with food service. We might have asked for some feedback about the quality of the food, what we're seeing. Usually there were students included. And I think that's kind of dropped off recently. And I'm sorry, my other phone is ringing, so I'll mute myself. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Here. Kathy Kreatz? Here. Melanie McLaughlin. Yeah. Me and the stone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Got it. Thank you. Mia is here. Paul Russo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor? Yes. You should first ask if there are any other nominations, and then the nomination has to be said by saying the name.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. I did speak to Member Ruseau earlier today, and we agreed that if any letters come in today, since I wasn't familiar yet with the process, that he would read them today. And I'll take over in the future. And you'll be the secretary one more night?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to – I was in signing the bills last Wednesday. Finally, a lot of bills came through for food service, which I had been sort of on the lookout for, so I was glad to see them. Everything else seemed to be in order. I want to thank all of the secretaries, particularly Gina Citrano, who sort of helps organize the bills for me, but everybody who is involved in the process of getting the bills together and making sure that we are in order and our bills are being paid as they should be appropriately. There's a lot of paperwork involved and I just am very appreciative.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: How many people are in the pool or expected to be in the pool?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you, Mr. Downs and Dr. Burnham. I'm very interested in hearing about the restorative justice piece that you mentioned. Mr. Downs, I did notice in your report you included some great comments, very positive comments, and showcasing real success, especially many comments around the just gratefulness for expressed that the kids were able to be attending school in a hybrid way. However, I did notice that you didn't necessarily tell us what the negative comments were. So if I were to just ask you about what one or two of the most insightful comments on how you could improve, what areas were most suggested?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I am. And I'm assuming that because you said, here are the positive comments.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I really do applaud the book club. I think it's great when you've got your staff coming together to discuss, you know, some new ideas and really reflect on thinking, so I think that's terrific. I just want to also ask you though, is there any, I was just kind of been kind of curious, we haven't heard much about transportation issues this year, and I've been wondering how the transportation and the bus, whether many students are using it, what you're seeing, and if you could just address that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor? Yes, thank you. Member Van der Kloot. Yes, I just wanted to ask, when I look at the schedule, that last piece, the spring sports going to July 3rd, that means that our seniors would have already graduated. Will they continue to be eligible to play? And how's that going to work?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do you think that the fact that the season will go beyond the end of school, will our students still continue to participate and not be deterred by that late cutoff date?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. First, I want to thank Melanie for bringing it to our attention. Melanie, I know you sent out information to us today. Did that have the webinar link in it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. So thank you. Paul has his hand up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham? Yes. Kathy Kreatz? Melanie McLaughlin?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Miama Stone? Yes. Paul Russo? Yes. Paulette Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Brian. Brianna, can I jump in for a second? Yes. Oh, yes. Member van de Kloot. So as you can see, we have some terrific leadership in Brian Buck, who's joined us as president this year, and David in his continuing role as the grants chair. Diane Caldwell is going to join our little group. And what we are really in need of is we are in need of some fundraising people because that's a major piece of what we need to do. But it's exciting, it's fun work, it's fun to be able to give out money, and we really appreciate the teachers who take the time to put in a grant because there's no guarantee. One of the things though that happened on this is that because of the number of, you know, we saw a good number of requests for Pear Deck, And so I was able to go follow up and have a discussion about that and find out that, yes, the district is in fact going to supply that to our teachers. And when we saw such interest coming in from teachers, that was just a really great thing to know. There's a couple of people I'd like to thank specifically. I had long talks with Molly Layden, our Director of Technology, with Bernadette Riccadeli, with Chad Fallon. And I'm afraid I'm going to leave some people out, but I was very, very appreciative to get their expertise. So when we were following up on these grant proposals, we were doing it wisely. So anyway, thanks. This is the good news.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A couple.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, time flies when you're having fun, so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I'm sorry I didn't realize it was muted. I couldn't unmute myself but thank you. I just wanted to thank Miss Baptiste and the students for bringing us that lovely presentation tonight. Earlier I was thinking about how much I missed all the holiday concerts that they, for I've gone for many years, and they've just always added that certain sense of time and celebration. And it really felt funny. I walked into the high school this morning for another reason and saw the empty auditorium and wished I was going there. So I really appreciate that this was brought to us. I was speaking to a friend who is a member of the Boston Gay Men's Choir. And they had done a piece, and he was explaining the process of how difficult it was to get everybody coordinated. And hearing our teacher doing this work with our students is particularly heartwarming to know that they've gone through the same process and all the labor, a labor of love, and thank you for it. Yes. Member Kreatz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Graham? Yes. Kreatz? Yes. McLaughlin?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Stone? Yes. Russo? Yes. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham? Yes. Kathy Kreatz? Yes. Melanie McLaughlin?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mia Mastone? Yes. Paul Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Vanderclute? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kreatz? Yes. McLaughlin? Yes. Mustone? Yes. Russo? Yes. Vanderclute? Yes. Mungo Kern?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Jenny Grant? Yes. Kathy Kretsch? Yes. Melanie McLaughlin? Yes. Mia Mustone? Yes. Paul Russo?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Van der Kloot?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can we send a thank you note to Mr. Christie? That's very generous of him to think of us. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Melanie, can you see the flashing lights now? I don't know if you can see them. Nice, Jenny.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I love the glasses. Oh, nice, Paul.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Merry Christmas. Bye everyone. Bye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Jenny Graham? Jenny? Here. Kathy Kreatz? Here. Melanie McLaughlin? Present. Mia Mastone? Here. Paul Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Vanderkloot, present. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Absolutely. So we had the building the future committee. And I would say that it came somewhat similar in that there was a great deal of discussion amongst in the community about the shape. And then several school committee members, including myself spearheaded, bringing it to the floor for discussion and, you know, moving it forward. One of the things which helped us was we had dynamic leadership of the committee. Rick Orlando and Tricia McDonough really did such an incredibly fabulous job outlining the path. The first discussions were, there was a series of events around the community, listening events, getting people's input. What were they thinking? What were they seeing? What were their reactions? and their concerns as we move forward. And remember, at that point, there was no, you know, in a similar way, we had not preconceived that we were going to build four new schools. We didn't know. All of that came into being over the course of the process. of the committee looking at the various different resources, concerns, land parcels availability, but even would they be K to H, would they be, none of that was preconceived. That was all part of the work of the committee. And that was then defined. One of the things that was extremely important was there were different phases of the committee. So the first was kind of the outreach Then the second was taking the information and coming up with some decisions. And those ones then were brought to the school committee for our input, because if we weren't buying it, there was no way we were going to be able to sell it to the community. And then a variety of different meetings happened around uh Medford uh you know outreaching to different groups and whatnot explaining what was um uh what project proposals there were, what ideas there were, and narrowing it down. So it's really quite a process in the same way that I think that we're thinking here. Were there discussions about educational? Yes, absolutely, and they need to be included as well. One of the things though that is very interesting sort of looking back is that there will be people who say, I just don't understand why. And they really have no understanding today why certain decisions were made back then about either the placement of the schools or why there's a K to eight and a middle school on one piece of property. So that's one of the interesting things as time goes on, those pieces are lost to the community. And then we have people saying, I don't understand this. And I can tell you that all of those decisions were thoroughly vetted and that there was a basis for each one of those decisions. But over time, it does get lost. And that's a valuable thing for me to realize as we go forward with this. I do wanna mention, by the way, that there was at the time, the third stage of building the future committee, which is what we called it. The third stage was the high school. And there was some work you know, things done over time. And then at some point, Dr. Perrella, you may recall, the former headmaster of the high school, he put together a, he wanted to put together a grant and he looked very much at the library area and discussed a lot about what should be happening educationally in that area. And I thought it was a very thorough vetting. There was a, at the time, There was a, they put together a presentation. And that's something that you know as we're talking about the things we're talking about not just the physical structure but how is the building going to be used educationally, we should, even though of course I'm sure it needs to be updated but we should look back to that, what happened at that point to. The, it was a very dedicated group of people. They had to be able to meet. I think at first we were meeting weekly. We could check with Rick Orlando and Tricia about exactly that, but it was a long process. I would say that it was probably about a year before we came was the first presentation and the first narrowing down steps was, you know, it was a significant process of time. I don't know if that answers the question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. We certainly had a few staff, but there were also people who acted. They might have attended the meetings because they were giving information. Right. You know, so it depended, but I think we were we really started at ground zero without great you know, with no preconceptions about what was going to happen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: One of the things I just wanted to mention was the importance of also having members go out and even if just in the initial process we did visitations to other school districts and that was so important and that's really harder to do right now because of COVID but you know most of us are framed you know we know our high school maybe we've been in another one but we certainly you know haven't been in a lot and we we went to quite a few other districts and that was very instrumental and that required that people were also available to take some time during the day. And that was important because it excited us incredibly to see, to come out of our world and also to see what was being offered in other districts. And so I just want to mention that, that maybe it can be conveyed somewhat by people visiting and then doing presentations. They can be, you know, that might be a job, if you would, that some people go, a smaller amount go and then make a presentation. But that's just another aspect we want to make sure we're doing is visitations.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I want to ask member Rousseau to read what he had read at the beginning, his charge. Paul, can you just repeat it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Paul, you know personally I think that's a fine starting point to be able to I mean, to take what Paul has has written and for us that to deliberate on it to give feedback to the superintendent and, and, you know, for us to you know, then if she could develop some way to share that with us, and then I think that would make sense. And while I can understand Jenny's concern about not Maurice having too much, I think it's absolutely critical that Maurice does play a strong role in this development. So I think that works. You know, I like Paul's starting point. personally. I think it's a good place to begin with, it's solid, but yet there's also a lot of potentials for discussion as well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham? Yes. Cathy Kretsch? Yes. Melanie McLaughlin? Yes. Mia Mastone? Yes. Paul Rousseau? Yes. Paulette Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: motion to adjourn by member McLaughlin seconded by member Rousseau number Rousseau roll call um jenny graham yes kathy cracks yes melanie mclaughlin yes niama stone yes paul rousseau yes paulette vanderkloot yes mayor lungo
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hey, is everybody here? Yes. Yes. OK. Close. Sorry, I had a little technical difficulty. So let me just get this up. Okay, thanks everybody for joining us. I'm on my cell phone right now having a little bit of a problem, but we'll start off here. Today, the curriculum subcommittee meeting is called to order. The purpose of this meeting is to review the math curriculum K to 12 in the Medford Public Schools. Pursuant to Governor Baker's March 12, 2020 order, suspending certain provisions of the open meeting law, and the Governor's March 15 order imposing strict limitations on the number of people that may gather in one place, this meeting of the Medford School Committee will be conducted via remote participation to the greatest extent possible. specific information and the general guidance for remote participation by members of the public and or parties with the right and a requirement to attend this meeting can be found at the city of Medford website www.medfordmass.org. For this meeting members of the public who wish to listen or watch the meeting may do so by accessing the meeting link contained herein. No in-person attendance of meetings with the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings in real time via technological means. In the event that we are unable to do so, despite best efforts, we will post on the City of Medford Community Media websites, an audio or video recording transcript or other comprehensive record of proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting. after the meeting. So the Medford, if you need to call in, the number is 312-626-6799. And the Zoom meeting ID is 965-1022-5227. Okay, thank you. Can we please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance? I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and with liberty and justice for all. Thank you. Sorry, I'm just a little confused because I had some problems, so excuse me. Can we start off? And superintendent, if you could take it away.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pfizer, thank you so much. That was a very comprehensive report with so much information built in. you ended up really on the key point that I think we're all concerned about is what will be the impact of this year. And especially, like I can, if I think about eighth grade, the eighth grade course, we've talked about many, many times how intense that is. And so now those kids have gone on into ninth grade, and I'm wondering what the teachers are telling you and what you're seeing so far.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm curious whether you're seeing a difference in the students who are fully remote versus the students who are hybrid.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I'm having some issues. I can't unmute myself except by the space bar, and I can't go into a gallery view, so I can't see other people's questions. So, Jenny, I'm gonna ask you if you can, can you see, if you can see everybody, could you call on people for questions?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I see that the superintendent had her hand up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny, do you see other hands up? Or if not, I've got some more questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't know. I think you're just making me feel better today, Faiza. It's okay for me to forget something.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Certainly in the middle of the night, you will pop up and say,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. I had a couple of questions, but except is Ingrid, did Ingrid have a follow-up?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Ingrid. The question I had was for, I was curious whether we had had any parent feedback on illustrative math so far, and also we had You talked about the professional development that was done. Did we have or how many new math teachers did we have into the system at the beginning of this year that needed to have professional development and was that completed?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I wanted to, yesterday by chance I had a discussion with Molly Layden about the document cameras. And it seems like they're such a popular item right now, they're delayed for another month or two. Right now, do some of the teachers have them?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And now I wanted to circle back to my colleague's discussion about creating a catalog. Faiza, you seem like you're well on your way. you know, with the information you've presented us tonight, would it be appropriate, Superintendent, to ask Ms. Kahn to begin that piece of documenting for the mathematics curriculum, what we are calling a catalog? But Faiza, I think you heard some of the information that we want, and Jenny, if you could weigh in about other things that you had in mind, particularly for the creation of this document,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to be careful, though, because it's not the it's not the school committees. We don't want to give you direction in whatever I so I had referred through the superintendent whether it would be possible given Wisconsin excellent report tonight if we went on and you know if you might have the discussion with her about taking this to the next step and beginning this process of creating the catalog and you know would seem like as we have these meetings that that's exactly what we should do as sort of after after each meeting is asking the department head to in fact create that kind of information that it would be a logical next step. So Superintendent if you'd address that please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. And Jenny.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so speaking of squeezing it all in, our next meeting is going to concentrate in January on foreign languages and technology. We wanted to get to foreign language because we had raised some questions about that. And technology was also in, it's gonna be a lot. So we might certainly schedule it for a two hour block. So we have time to devote to each area. February was supposed to be science. And then March was, English language arts. I know, Jenny, you had asked whether ELA could come sooner. The superintendent, I'm not sure if you had the chance to have that discussion with Dr. Chiesa.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just want to say at the beginning of the meeting, I was flustered enough with my technology snafus that I didn't announce that the members of the subcommittee are myself and Jenny Graham. Mia couldn't make it, but Paul Rousseau was in attendance tonight. So we appreciate that he was here as well. Jenny, do you have any further thoughts before we wrap this meeting up?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And Ms. Kahn, I would particularly like to thank you for your presentation. I've always enjoyed when you're here. So thank you so much. Paulette? Yes, Paul.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On that motion, Jenny? Yes. Paulette, yes. And for the sake of it, Paul, you want to vote?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much, everyone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Certainly. Member Jenny Graham? Here. Member Kathy Kreatz? Here. Member Melanie McLaughlin? Here. Member Mia Mustone?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thumbs up, Mia? Perfect. Member Paul Russo? Member Paulette Van der Kloot, present. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion of approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham? Yes. Kathy Kreatz? Yes. She said yes. Okay, Melanie McLaughlin? Yes. Mia Mustone? Thumbs up. Paul Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion of approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Jenny Graham? Yes. Kathy Kreatz. Yes. Mia McLaughlin. I'm sorry, Melanie McLaughlin. Yes. Mia Mustone. Thank you. Paul Russo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Vanderkloot. Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is none.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Graham? Yes. Kreatz? Yes. McLaughlin? Yes. Mustone? Me, I see the thumbs up. Paul Rousseau? Yes. Van der Kloot, yes. Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Graham? Yes. Pretz? Yes. McLaughlin? Yes. Ms. Stone? Yes. Russo? Yes. Vanderclute? Yes. Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Yes, so we met on November 18. Present was myself, Jenny Graham. Mia could not make it, so Paul Rousseau attended in her place. We began with a presentation from Tanya Sullivan and Alex Lark, co-chairs of the Medford CPAC, and they made a presentation reminding us that they speak for 20% of Medford Public Schools students and that they've been advocating for a disability awareness program for many years. Also, Melanie McLaughlin also attended, and she was the previous head of the CPAC, and also was very active in this program. advocating for this program. Joan Bowen and Susanna Campbell presented the disability awareness in the classroom presentation. Susanna Campbell is presented an overview of the course that she ran last year and is going to now run again this January. The professional development is available on the Professional Development website and is now open for registration. It's open to all staff, not just teachers. The program is going to run Thursday afternoons from 3.15 to 5.15 in January and February via Zoom. The course includes the history of disabilities in the U.S., and U.S. legislation, ableism, belief in our society that not being disabled is the norm, disability etiquette, so teachers can model disability etiquette, and asking a person what they want, if they want assistance rather than stepping in, and the unique needs of students with various disabilities, and also tools to break down stereotypes. Key curricular concepts are positive representation of people with disabilities in content area lessons, universal design for learning helps all have better access, anti-ableism language practice into content area lessons, reframe misconceptions, building a more inclusive environment and creating a better community. The next steps, is to recruit is to have the PD course January and February of 2021 then recruit volunteers to pilot a disability awareness curriculum in February 2021 and then a pilot in classrooms, March to May 2021. This is not a one and done, and this is one of the most important things that really was stressed in the meeting. This disability awareness, we want it to be embedded into everyday instruction, so that it's not something that which simply just happens once, it's a, you know, get some fanfare, and then it's left behind. Rather, the concept and the awareness needs to be embedded into the curriculum so it is ongoing. That was a very important point. We talked about a book that one fifth grade teacher was using and the lesson plans that had come out of that. Last time, 48 teachers took the course and it's hoping that there will be as many this time. It's done on a volunteer basis. And the end result is creating curriculum units that can be shared amongst our staff. Again, we talked a little bit about why we weren't doing a specialized curriculum, but rather embedding it in. CPAC had done research on this in past years and there had been an attempt at the one school, but it ended up being a special event rather than having the long-term impact. Let's see. We're starting from the pilot and we're growing from there. And Susanna Campbell mentioned that we're taking a two-pronged course. One is about teaching students. The other part is teaching teachers to use universal design to help them become more knowledgeable about disabilities. We've asked that there would be a report and update at the end of the year, and that's been scheduled. And so we'll be reporting back to the committee about how many teachers signed up and took the course and how many volunteers we had and how we were able to implement this this year, this year being 2021 in the spring. Lastly, I just want to mention to you that the The next meeting is on December 10th, but that is this Thursday. And we're going to be looking at the math curriculum. We also wanted to convey our thanks both to the, particularly to Tanya Sullivan and Alex Lorick of the CPAC and to Susanna Campbell and Joan Bowen for all the work they did in giving the information for us for this subcommittee. That's it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Graham?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kreatz? Yes. McLaughlin? Yes. Mustone? Yes. Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot, yes. Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. May I just ask, do we have a student representative tonight? I see a student on the call. Do you want to introduce yourself? Colin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much for attending Colin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to approve.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Always trying to shut me up some way. All right, so I just, just for the public, we're not, I'm not going to address this right now only because I think we have some reports coming and we certainly will have some questions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Melanie has her hand up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. I just want to be clear on making sure that I understand the teacher's statement and the information that, Tony, you're supplying. Up to this point, my understanding was that there was only one in-school transmission. Do we have any more than that at this point?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But we've heard that there's a large number of teachers out at the Roberts in particular. That's because they are quarantining?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So a positive case that was in school, is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: we are not seeing in-school transmission. If I understand it correctly, what you're saying is that because of the testing and our ability to pick up cases, we are getting to those students and faculty members before they've actually become positive. Is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. I mean, I certainly understand the, you know, when all of a sudden we hear that there's a greater number of teachers who are on quarantine. I certainly understand. And I think all of us feel this right now, this anxiety as we see the case number get higher and higher throughout not only Massachusetts, but the country. And, you know, sort of it's very unsettling. But what you're saying is so far the data says that we're doing okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Now, by no means am I dismissing the anxiety attached to being told you should quarantine or whatever. I mean, I certainly understand that that is an important piece of what our staff and teachers are conveying to us is that they're nervous about it. But what you're saying right now is there's really been no change in the data, which would suggest that we need to do something different in terms of having students come to school. Is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess then the next question really goes to the superintendent. When we see the number of staff getting higher because they're on quarantine, do we have enough? And I know that there's been an incredible effort to cover classes and that the administrative people and others have just really stepped up and covered. But when we see what's going on at the Roberts right now with a certain level of teachers being out, are we able to cover the classrooms? Is it still working?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor? Thank you. Madam Mayor. Adam is seeking to, has his hand up for a long time. Yes, I was going to that next. Adam.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just wanted to thank you for the report. I think this is a very positive thing for our students, and I particularly like to see the teachers who responded about how this, even though students may not be in school, it's still pulling them together and creating a community. So thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're welcome. Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A couple of things. First of all, I want to express my gratitude for the extensive amount of work in putting this together and updating it. I really appreciate it. They're very comprehensive report. Specifically, on page 28 on the form itself, bullying incident reporting form, I see that it says date of report. but I don't see a line that says date of incident or even date of alleged incident. And so a report could be made six days afterwards. I think we should clarify what the date is. Now, perhaps it does exist someplace, or maybe you just assume that somebody would write it in. But just in case, to me, that just stood out. Peter, do you want to talk to that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. The next thing I want to speak to is that when I see the page and I'm flipping back about notifications, there's not a timeline. And I'm concerned that there aren't timelines put into this. Notify parents, caregiver of the target. When does that happen? I mean, you know, all of a sudden, you know, when the investigative report, I sort of, I think that we, that we need to be clear. And I understand timelines are tricky because there's holidays, there's weekends, there's whatever. But yet without any timeline, you kind of take away some level of teeth to this. Now, my colleague Melanie brought up many good reports and I really do like the idea of a simple one page thing, a summary, in some ways. But the other thing which makes me a little bit nervous is that because this is so comprehensive, I'm not really comfortable just approving it tonight. And normally I would expect that this would go, and I know nobody wants to have another meeting, but normally I would expect it to go to rules and regulations or whatever policy. So rather than just approving it, If we're not gonna send it there, and I don't know the will of the committee, I would suggest we lay it on the table and we have updates, the one page update added to it before our approval at the next meeting. But I would like to, I'm not gonna make the motion, I'd like my colleagues to weigh in and let me know what their comfort level is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, that's kind of an unusual way for a school committee to do business. I mean, because part of me would say that you'd certainly be following this better policy. But I guess I'm comfortable with that. What about the timelines issue?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And to add the date of the incident. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I would like to see it where it says date of report. Let's see. I have to find the page again. It might be 28.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm looking for it. Here we go. Where it says date of report, right underneath that, if you move that up rather than making it, it should say date of incident or date. It could be dates, actually. Anyway, I see some of my colleagues have their hands up, so I'd like them to weigh in.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham? Yes. Kathy Kreatz? Yes. Melanie McLaughlin? Yes. Mia Mastone? Yes. Paul Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Vanderkloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I believe that the first piece of that is that the superintendent would supply the school committee with a self evaluation and I certainly support that it's important for us to do the superintendent's evaluation, but I think that it's a little bit unfair to ask her to have that ready by December 21st in just two weeks, given all that she's handling right now. So I would respectfully ask that we put it to the first meeting that she would supply us that documentation at the first meeting of January.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. I think it certainly, Kathy, since you had that review, if you could just send it to the rest of us so we could see the other steps involved, I think that would be important for us to review.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, but keep in mind that we have, in fact, been setting goals for the superintendent throughout this period. We've talked about goals of inclusivity, of involving, if you think about all the meetings that we had during the summer, we've set a goal about getting kids back to school. It's not like, I realize it hasn't been in the formal way that you're suggesting, but it would be erroneous to think that we haven't been giving direction to our superintendent. And we certainly have plenty to be able to reflect upon on how she has been handling this process, which is, in my opinion, been extremely strong. My recollection from all other times is what we do is that each of us individually will fill out an evaluation once the superintendent gives us her self evaluation and then we'll gather as a committee and discuss it and decide how we're gonna come up with either a collaborative document to then share with the superintendent. And I think in the past, the superintendent has been part of those discussions. But again, I think that the next step is to review what we're supposed to do technically, just to, so we all are on the same page, and that we ask the superintendent to provide us with her self-evaluation by mid-January at the latest, so that we can go ahead with the process. And I think we're all in agreement, really.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I think we've already articulated many goals which we could write down and then we could take a look at and articulate goals for the rest of the year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, and the superintendent also has a major piece in setting out goals. So it's a joint conversation because she's very much will be a piece of articulating those goals and quantifying them as you suggest.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Let's set it for February 8th, that it will be done by February 8th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: By the 8th, the process should be complete. So that means that if the superintendent gives us her self-evaluation at the first or even the second meeting in January, and the first might be preferable, or mid-Feb, whatever, that we will have set up a committee of the whole meeting, and we will commit to having done the self-evaluations and the other steps.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm saying that because I think Jenny does have a point that we want to get it done. So that's why I'm putting an end date. If we get it done before that, that's even better. But this way, we've given the superintendent enough time, but we've committed ourselves to making sure it gets done.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Graham? Yes. Kritz? Yes. McLaughlin? Yes. Ms. Stone? Yes. Russo?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham? Yes. McCracken? Yes. McLaughlin? Yes. Mustone? Yes. Russo? Yes. Van der Kloot, yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, I would ask that we allow the superintendent a little bit more time than the first. And to Member Graham, this is part of the superintendent's job to set up these meetings and do it in a timely fashion and whatever. And I sometimes feel like it's important to let her have the latitude. I understand your your need to make sure that it's started early and that process is started early. But again, I just personally, I think that we need to trust the superintendent. And if she's not setting up the budget in a timely fashion or whatever, and I just don't think we have to legislate it as my own personal opinion. I think that if you're, Concerned about it or any member is concerned about it. I think that for me that the best way about it is having conversation with the superintendent and only if she's not then being responsive would you then go about and put it in a resolution. So my personal opinion is that this falls under the superintendent's purview and you're suggesting I think that you would like to have it sooner rather than later. If you want to go forward with your resolution, which I'm sure you do, I would just suggest that we say that by the end of January, just to give her a little more latitude. So I would amend it to be the end of January.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Will you accept the amendment to the end of January, Jenny?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I think I've offered an amendment. I think Kathy has seconded it. So should we vote on the amendment?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. On that motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Massone? Yes. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thanks, thank you. So, Mayor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just a follow up on that. So that means, will the superintendent then report back to us at our next school committee meeting about when that report can be done?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Should we vote on it as a motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, second. Jenny Graham? Yes. Kathy Kreatz? Yes. Melanie McLaughlin? Yes. Mia Mustone? Yes. Paul Rousseau? Paulette Vanderkloot? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, we should do the roll.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Member Jenny Graham? Here. Member Kathy Kreatz? I can't hear you, Kathy, but I see you saying yes. Member Melanie McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mia Mustone? Yes. Yes. Thanks, Kathy. Member Paul Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Paul at Vanderkloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so I just wanted to go back to Mary Ann if I could, or Tony, I don't know who better to ask this question. So all together there we have 27 students. When the contact tracers call their home, Is it generally, like of the 27, do they know where they were in contact with someone with COVID? Do they have certainty of the, like you mentioned, well, the father had it or the mother, or do you have people saying, I have no idea?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do you follow up and ask them if they've been going to the grocery store and other specifics?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So of the students, of the 27 students, if we could talk about in-school transmission, how many of those are suspected to be in-school transmission?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So in the in-school transmission case, and I realize we don't obviously wanna identify anybody, but how was it determined that that student, did they come to school sick? Could you just give us a better understanding?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you, Maria.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I know they've been waiting an awful long time, but what I would do is I could just ask Member Graham one question for clarification, and then if you would call upon me after we let the residents speak, I don't want them to have to wait any longer. But the clarification is, Jenny, you mentioned maybe I should make an amendment, maybe it should be a new resolution, but I wasn't sure what, precisely you are either amending or what your resolution would be. So could you give us the wording so we understand?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So to clarify, if there was the Brooks School classroom, second grade was sent home, it would say, you know, so sort of a red flag, current closures, Brooks School, grade two. So if we- Select grade two or something like that. Right, so that's just a total hypothetical to be clear. But then the question is when we do that, and this goes back to Marianne, is the whole confidentiality issue. And are we really giving people more, I mean, if grade two is closed at whatever school, okay, wouldn't automatically, you know, parents would be notified, let's face it, the school would soon know, what are you really accomplishing? I mean, yes, it is a way of, it would be one way of seeing it across the district, and from that, I like that. You know, Brooks grade two, Roberts grade four, you know, Cohart C, you know, that would work.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So if the box said, or if the next current closures, okay, so the box said current closures, and right now, do we have any closures, superintendent? Let me ask the confidentiality question first.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, Mayor, I actually had the floor, but I wanna get to, I know Mr. Began has had his hand up for a long time and there are others, but, and then I'd like to make a statement afterwards.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't think he heard you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So, some of the speakers made points that I wanted to make and first I will start out with Mr. begins point that the really great news is just the one in school transmission. And that's, that's just fantastic news and. we can certainly hope that we can continue that. To the speaker who talked about the role of the school committee and us representing, well, we do. And when I was elected, I always take that a certain amount of people at least have enough faith in my judgment. Sometimes we will disagree, but overall, you have listened to me enough and you have some level of faith in my thinking and in my judgment. As a school committee member, I have watched our superintendent and her team very carefully. We looked at the policies that we've outlined and I see them following them and working very meticulously as many of the speakers made reference to. I have personally no reason to question her judgment on making a call if we were facing a situation, I believe that she would evaluate with her team and with the city people, and also maybe a call to the school committee members, because we certainly would want to be kept in the loop, but I've never felt that I've not been kept in the loop by the superintendent. But I wouldn't need to be called into a special meeting. I wouldn't want to put that as this body, the school committee, now would be the ones who make that decision. I have trust that the school committee has selected our superintendent to carry out our policies and I have every reason to believe that that's what she would be doing. So I would support the motion by my colleague and also like to thank everybody for all their work on these issues. I would support the clarification that member Graham spoke to. In the general sense, not specific, because I think we went through the discussion about that. And so I think that's good. If you wanted to do an analogy, we could talk about snow days. And some might say, well, Paulette, you're making it so simple. But frankly, when there's a snow day, a superintendent makes a call with a lot of different inputs about the safety of the travel for our students, travel for our teachers, the conditions. She confers with other experts. She might confer with other superintendents as well. And there's always going to be people who are going to disagree with the superintendent. And there's always going to be people, and luckily we've heard from some of them tonight, which is nice that you've taken the time. who's going to support the decision. Yes, it's a simplification, obviously this is far more difficult. To the speaker who said you're not giving parents enough, well the problem is that this is a pandemic and all I can say to parents is At any point, we need you to think about your backup plans. I am sure many of you, all of you, are thinking about that on a day-to-day basis. We are in a circumstance that calls upon families to be flexible and nimble in the most difficult ways, which obviously none of us would possibly choose. So on saying all of that, I would support leaving the decision. I always feel that as a school committee member, ultimately, as I vote on the superintendent's contract, that is my probably most important role in so many ways besides making policy. And this superintendent, Dr. Marisa Edward-Vincent and her team have showed extraordinarily dedication and also have worked very closely with the school committee to make sure that they are doing what we are asking of them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to move the question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do you want to do the amendment first?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. On the amendment, can we just lump them together? Please. OK. On the amendments, member Graham? Yes. Kreatz? Yes. McLaughlin? Yes. Ms. Stone? Yes. Rousseau? Hall?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vanderclute, yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, Kathy, what was the original motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Continued authority. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's still giving authority to the superintendent. But authority for what I think is what I'm trying to be clear about. to determine whether the schools need to close or should remain open.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We're affirming the superintendent's authority too.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't think that separating section two with section three makes any sense. I think that it's the whole thing. So I don't understand my colleagues' Um, lack of clarity on this. I mean, to me, um, we're saying, yes, the superintendent is the one who's going to make the final call. We're, we're saying the superintendent, the school committee is not going to be called into session to make, to make, to take the vote.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's just an unreal place. I mean, we have meetings every two weeks.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's not like this committee is just going to abdicate and walk off. We have continued meetings. We're talking about this at every meeting. I think that you're trying to define something so specifically is kind of losing the forest for the trees. Well, that's your opinion. That's fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Member Graham? No. Member Kritz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Muson? Yes. Member Ruseau? No. Member Van der Kloot, yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham. Yes. Member Kreatz. Yes. Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Bistone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lunko-Kern?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Call the motion to adjourn. Graham? Yes. Kritz? Yes. McLaughlin? Yes. Bistone?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, that's wonderful. Well, so that's why we have to make sure we're ending in the appropriate time because the necessity for me, she lives in Maryland and I have to call while the little boys are awake and singing happy birthday and all the rest, so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. I'm just taking a look whether Tanya is here yet. She is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're so good. Good. And Alex?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, great. All right, terrific. And Jenny is here. And Mia Mustone, who's the other member, said she could not come. Is Paul here yet? Not yet. He's going to be joining us just as someone else, another committee member, today since Mia couldn't make it. Okay. So I have to read this long thing. So let me find out where it went. Hold on. And so if you would, today is November 18th. It's just after four o'clock. We have a meeting of the curriculum subcommittee. Please be advised that on Wednesday from four to 530, there will be a curriculum subcommittee meeting held through remote participation via zone. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss a plan for incorporating disability awareness into daily instruction as a pilot program in the Metro Public Schools. Pursuant to Governor Baker's March 12th order submitting certain provisions of the open meeting law, 301 paragraph 18 in the governor's March 15, 2020 order imposing strict limitations on the number of people that may gather in one place. This meeting of the Medford School Committee will be conducted via remote participation to the greatest extent possible. Specific information and the general guidelines for remote participation by members of the public and or parties with the right and or requirement to attend this meeting can be found on the city of Medford website at www.medfordmass.org. For this meeting, members of the public who wish to listen or watch the meeting may do so by accessing the meeting link contained herein. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings in real time via technological means. In the event that we are unable to do so despite best efforts, we will post on the city of Medford or Medford community media websites on an audio or video recording transcript or other comprehensive record or of proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting. The meeting can be viewed through Medford Community Media and it says on Comcast Channel 2 and version Channel 43. However, there was a change to that which I'm going to find in a second. I'll repeat that. Since the meeting will be held remotely, participants can log in or call by using the following link or a call-in number. So the call-in number is meeting ID 950-2877-9285. Or if you want to call in, you could call in to 1-312-626-6799, US. Additionally, questions or comments can be submitted during the meeting by emailing pwloot at medford.k12.ma.us. Those submitting may include the following information, your first and last name, your Medford Street address, and your question or comment. The agenda today is going to be to identify the plan to incorporate disability awareness into daily instruction as a pilot program in the Medford public schools. And we're going to have Joan Bowen and Susanna Campbell present, but we're going to start off with a different presentation first by our SPEDPAC. By the way, today, The meeting can be viewed on Comcast 15 and Verizon Channel 45. Apparently, we've been booted because there's another meeting. So thank you very much for all of that. If I could ask, as is our custom, if everybody could rise so we could say the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with justice and liberty for all. Thank you. Jenny, could I ask you to take the roll?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great, hello. Thank you. So today we're gonna start off with a presentation that I don't know who's the lead person, but Tanya and Alex are going to start off with a presentation at the beginning of our meeting here so we can review the work that they've been doing over the years as part of the PAC.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry, I didn't hear that. There we go.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mine is cut off as well. Maybe I can.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Thank you. Thank you so much, Alex. And thank you for all your work with the special education pack. As you know, this is something that I've believed in very firmly and have been part of the discussions in the previous years. So this is the year, right? Yes, thank you. I appreciate it. Having said that now, I think I'm going to turn it over to Joan and or Susanna. I don't know who's going to take the lead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, Suzanne, can you tell me how many teachers took the course the first time and what your hope is for enrollment.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great, thank you. So I think that this work that you've been doing is really excellent, you know, and I've loved seeing the lesson plans. My only concern is it's possible that a student would go through eight grades and not happen to get any consistent discussion from year to year, depending on who this child's teachers are.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I might, yeah. Susan, do you want to answer and then go to Alex?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I had a question, um, the book that you cited, uh, from the teacher's lesson plan, out of my mind, is that a book that fifth graders, um, in most classes are reading?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, what I'm thinking is that, you know, again, it's wonderful the work you're doing today and the work you'll do in the next go round, but is there a way to, you know, suggest to other teachers who aren't participating at least to be looking at that lesson plan, which seems to be very comprehensive, so that maybe they'll be choosing that book too. to read in their classrooms. Again, my concern is what you're doing is fantastic. It just is for those who either aren't participating. And I totally understand that this year is so, again, how do we get all the curriculum pieces in? And that's why it's so fantastic to be able to infuse it into the curriculum. But I'm wondering how we can encourage all teachers to be looking at those. I'm wondering if we can identify a couple of lesson plans for each grade and send them out and just say, hey, FYI, this is one of the things that the district is really looking at. Here's some great lesson plans. I would think that for some of our teachers, they might be vastly relieved to have it laid out so clearly. So I guess I'm trying to say, how do we ramp it up a little bit more? You know, and I'm looking into next year too, how are we making sure that we are hitting, that there's, I mean, there's multiple topics, not just one topic, but so many different topics effectively for our students. And, you know, I bet there will be some teachers who would just absolutely shine at doing this, but if your kid is not in that class, that's what the problem is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And remember, we also just last month talked about the racial equity piece. So it's not just this. So there's multiple things that we're trying to provide comprehensive education for our kids. So we have to talk a little bit more. Maurice, I see superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was wondering whether any of the teachers who've participated before have been from the vocational school.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, where I'm what I'm thinking is that, you know, as teachers are attending this they're also learning more about the disabilities that they students might have, particularly say, you know, a student on the spectrum. that that goes across the board. So it may not be that the carpentry teacher in essence is really teaching or developing a unit, but also I guess there's another piece of saying, how do we make sure that our staff is knowledgeable about different disabilities that their students have? And I don't know how we do that. Does anybody wanna address that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great. Wonderful. Anybody else like to have a question? Comment? Joan? No?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, great. Does anybody else have any questions? Yeah, Alex?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, Alexia, that was exactly my question, is saying how will we follow up on this and then make sure that we're expanding on it in successive years and being able to also evaluate our success of implementing this curriculum or in our larger school. Any thoughts on?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: How many teachers are you thinking in terms of the pilot?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I would think that it makes sense for this topic, again, that we touch back on it, either at the end of the year or definitely at the very beginning of next year, so we can see what happened and where we are. Does that seem, the pilot program was listed in the original presentation, was that from March to May?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, that would be great. So we can either add it on, perhaps, to our topics. We do know how crazy June gets, but I think that we need to circle back to it. Alex?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: As you say that, it also jogs me to be thinking that there are budget implications because we want to make sure that if there are particular books or units that people are excited about presenting, that they have the books or materials that they need. So doing this prior to budget so that we were knowledgeable about what we would need would be particularly good.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Paul.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Melanie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so Jenny, would you like to make a motion that the school committee curriculum subcommittee receive a reconvene in June or prior to budget so that we can get an update and we can see what funding might be necessary to continue this work? Yeah, sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. And I'll second it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, that's great. Jenny, will you call the roll?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Now, I think that we've really covered it. First, thank you, Alex and Tanya. Is there anything else that either of you would like to add?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And thank you. Thank you. Thank you to both of you and to the work of the PAC over not just this year, but for many years. And that includes Melanie, too. Thank you. I'm just want to remind her we have a meeting in December off the top of my head. I'm going to say it's December 11 December 10, I believe, 10, so it's a 10 so close. Okay. And I think we were going to look at addicts. Okay. Great. So we're looking at mathematics in December. We will again continue to let everybody here know. So now this may be unprecedented, but, and Melanie, I know that you've had maybe a slightly shorter meeting, but I am going to ask whether we have a motion to adjourn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That means that we have actually accomplished something we have yet to accomplish. We are having a shorter meeting than called for. And that's because everybody was so well prepared. Thank you so very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Certainly. Jenny Graham? Here. Kathy Kreatz? Here. Melanie McLaughlin? Here. Mia Mastone? Present. I see you. Okay. Paul Russo?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Vanderkloot? Yes. Present. And Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Patty Kreatz? Yes. Melanie McLaughlin? Yes. Mia Mastone? Yes. Paul Russo?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Vanderclute, yes. Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion of approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Kathy Kreatz. Yes. Melanie McLaughlin. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. I just want to say that this week, I went in or last week I went in the day before Wednesday, which is the usual usual signing but since it was Veterans Day I signed on Tuesday. And I will be in this week as well. Nothing. that I particularly want to bring to the attention of the committee at this time. Also going to mention that there will be a curriculum subcommittee meeting this Wednesday from 4 to 5 30. So I hope everybody can attend.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We're going to be talking about a disability awareness information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham? Yes. Kathy Kreatz? Yes. Melanie McLaughlin? You can say it at the same time with me if you want. Yes. Mia Mustone? Yes. Paul Rousseau? Yes. Paulette Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call. Member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So roll call. Yes. Member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so the ramp, as I understand it, was put in to assist loading and unloading, particularly of the musical instruments and whatever. And it was never meant to be ADA accessible. If you recall, there is an ADA accessible ramp at the front of the building. My safety concerns, though, is that because it is there, that it opens us up to concern automatically. As you think about it, there is no railing. When I come out of the building at night from a concert, I have been concerned on many an occasion that someone could make a misstep in the lowered light, even though we've improved lighting there, but it'd be highly possible. And that's for anybody, not only somebody who might also use the ramp, which might have some concerns, maybe wheelchair, whatever, it's clearly too steep for, safe wheelchair. So, but that is not the designated ADA ramp, but it exists. And again, it was put in for, you know, all of a sudden it appeared and there was a reason for its appearance. But for me personally, from the time it's gone in, I've been concerned about it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're at the front of the building, and you're looking at the doors. And the ramp is, part of it is stairs, but the ramp is right there on the left.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, no, it's outside.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Outside. So you've probably been up and down it 1,000 times, Melanie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: For me, it's not so much an accessibility issue as my concern about what if someone makes a misstep off the side.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rousseau.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call. Member Kress? Yes. Member Graham? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to ask if you could repeat, how are we getting permission for the students to get tested? Will we have a blanket permission slip? Will we have one? Could you just go over those, that again, please?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And if parents opt out?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that will be confidential?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I'm just saying that the teacher will know who opts out and not.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Okay. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was just going to say that it seems, you know, Mr. Rousseau is presenting certain information that Tony's unaware of. And that needs to be a private conversation between the two of them if information wants to be shared so that she can verify it. Because at this point, it's only, you know, working on hearsay, if you would.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. So, you know, I just, I'm not privy to the details of it. None of us are, except perhaps the two of you, and somehow or another, it doesn't seem like it's really moving us ahead. It sounds like there's some will to have further discussion on this. I have a hard time because I know I'm not an expert. I know I'm a school committee member who has great intentions and wanna do the best for our kids, but I'm not an expert on this. And so that means that I have to listen to experts. And in some places I'm a little worried because I feel like some perhaps of my fellow school committee members think that they can interpret things in a better way than some of the experts. And I'm not, I'm feeling a little uncomfortable about this. I think that we do need to move on. If we're going to have a meeting on it, where the potential would be maybe next Monday, if I threw out a date. I don't know what the will of the entire committee is at this point about it. I'm definitely feeling uncertain. I understand arguments that I'm hearing, but You know, what are the major question is, I've heard some things about metrics and looking into how Tufts changes us, our potential numbers. Clearly, Mr. Rousseau is saying that the current policy that we have is not accurate and needs to be updated. But at the same time, I heard the superintendent say something about that it was being updated
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to say thank you. It's really great to see the innovative ideas of our teachers and our students. Clearly, some of the photos we saw enjoying themselves. And I'm sure that behind each one of these, there's many more stories that could be told. But it's nice, especially when we have this kind of meeting, which has had its difficult points to then have this bright side. So thank you very much for your report. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I wanted to go back to the elementary portion and ask specifically two things. First, we talked a great deal about the Columbus second grade and bringing in a second teacher because of the unique circumstances that had happened, but I don't see that reflected in a split or have we brought in a second teacher?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Are they working in unison or have each taken a portion of the students?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, especially as the students had begun, that actually makes a lot of sense. Has the feedback from parents and students been positive? So far, yes. Okay. The second question I had, and I just wanted to refer to it, is at the time when we discussed it two weeks ago, I had brought up the issue that you referenced that needing to change some of the specialists, and I was quite concerned about that because I know for my own grandchild how important those specialists are to him, and were they changed, it would cause him great stress. So I was very concerned when I had received some emails about that. One in particular stood out. I haven't received any out, input after that. I'm hoping that means that the new specialists have quickly, the kids have quickly adjusted, but that was something that was unexpected and I'm not totally sure whether it was, I know it hadn't been communicated to us, so I didn't understand it was happening. Are we stable at this point with the specialists and are you getting any other feedback about that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I know, you know, in my own, obviously, I don't think it's the ideal situation by any, you know, stretch, but I think that what I'm hearing is really it's what you had to do in very unfortunate circumstances. So, you know, I keep on putting that, trying to put that into perspective. And, you know, today we had to, we were asked to submit videos for, to the McGlynn for their Medford Pride Day. And one of the things, words I had to use was flexible and proud of our students for being flexible, because I think that's such a key here and something that we have to keep on patting them on the back for, and also to our teachers and staff too about, striving to keep that flexibility as we work through these times. Anyway, thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, that's good to know. I did not know that. That's great. Great to hear. Thank you, Suzanne.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruseau. Could you repeat the motion, please?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Shall I call the roll? Yes, please. Should I call the roll, Brianna? Yes, please. Sorry. Jenny Graham? Yes. Cathy Kreatz? Yes. Melanie McLaughlin? Yes. Mia Mastone? Yes. Paul Rousseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Paulette Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor? Member Van der Kloot. I just wanted to thank you for the report. It really was good to hear, although of course it's difficult to hear too, to think in our community, we have so many people who are food insecure, but thank you very much for the report and for your work.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jenny Graham. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Member Graham? Present. Member Kreatz? Kathy? Kathy Kreatz? Here. Thank you. Member McLaughlin? Melanie? Member McLaughlin?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Mustone? Member Van der Kloot present, Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham? Yes. Kreatz? Yes. McLaughlin? Yes. Ms. Stone? member miss stone. Yes. Member Ruseau. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just also wanted to add and echo Melanie's thoughts because I too made calls and I will say that the response was just so positive and I'm very appreciative for you to doing that, starting that program and all the things that you and our administration have been doing during this very difficult period. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Member van de Kloot? Yes, I wanted to thank you, Kirsteen, for working this out and for giving us the proposal. I assume we need to take a vote to accept the MOA?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I make a motion that we accept the MOA as negotiated by our business superintendent, Christine Patterson.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So right now we haven't had that yet. No, no, we haven't.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have a question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I was just curious whether we've been able to go yet to the next level and find out, say, with the 38 students, is that 22 families? Are there multiple siblings? Have we been able to look at the students? I would think that would be the next step and say if it hasn't been done yet.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think it's very valuable information for us to have. As I know, it must have been very time consuming to get it. But it really gives us a good picture about where we're standing. And it also reassures us as committee members of knowing that all of this outreach and touch has happened in a very clear way that we can see on these tables. It really sums it up nicely for us. So I appreciate it very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to first, Tonya and Alex, I want to thank you very much. I thought it was very, very interesting to read through all the responses. And, you know, they kind of fell to me in two different categories. One was the level that was heartbreaking when people just said, I'm struggling. I'm having a really tough time. And, you know, at one point, I just felt like tears coming to my eyes. I was sort of thinking of parents really in that situation. But I also had a second feeling and that was there were many responses which really spoke to the dedication of our teachers and the positive interactions that had happened. And locally there's a child not far from where I live who is in an out placement and I've spoken to his father and he has said so many wonderful things about the people who he interacts with for his special ed child. And I really think that was brought home in the survey as well and want to thank our teachers for their dedication.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor? Yes, Member Van der Kloot. Yes, I had a couple of questions. First, could you please remind us, Peter, was this translated into a variety of languages? And did we get any ones that were translated back?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, my second question, or really just a comment, Peter, is on the slide where you ask about how much time. That's a little misleading because you're, in terms of helpfulness, because it's K to 12. And what my expectation might be for a high school student is very different than a kindergarten student. So were we to do it again, if we could break it down at least into elementary, middle, and high school, for me, that would make more sense. But otherwise, I certainly appreciated the information and that you did this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The other thing which would be interesting, especially in the upper grades and perhaps middle school too, is at some point to ask kids how they're feeling and to return, you know, to see what kind of feedback we get from students. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I had received several letters as well. I think we all did. And I think we all feel the same way, the same as Peter and Paul have just conveyed. It's important that we will celebrate this class. It'll be the most unique and different sort, perhaps. There's things we don't know now, but certainly it's not if, it's really a question of when. I agree. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, this is slightly off topic, but I haven't heard any updates about the advanced placement exams. Have those exams at this point been canceled?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That was my question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It would be appropriate to add one to the new business. Okay. If I may. Yes. I'd like to just mention, of course, that this is the sad, um, you know, today the Boston marathon was supposed to be run and I wanted to certainly remember, uh, Crystal Campbell, uh, this evening. Yes. Thank you for that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van de Kloot. I just wanted to let you know that on Wednesday, I went up to sign the bills, and I'm standing outside the high school down on the main road was a whole lot of our vocational teachers and other staff from us. holding signs to honor Annie Glenn Cross. And it was so, so touching and moving to see our teachers making this effort, knowing that it was such an unusual time, that it was different for the family. And yet they had gathered together appropriately, social distance, but showing their love for Annie.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Member Kretsch? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Present. Member Van der Kloot, present.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I called her. Sorry, I think it didn't come through. Got it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call vote. Yep. Member Graham? Yes. member Crutch? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Member Mustone? I don't think Mia's hearing me. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, Mia, I got you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to let everybody know that I was in on Wednesday to sign the bills. Right now I'm signing the bills on a bi-weekly basis, so I go in every other week until I hear any, until I'm given any other instructions. I am proceeding with and very thankful for our great people who are coming in to work to get the bills ready for me. Great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot. I read through it and I was comfortable with it. I wanted to make sure that our administrative people also thought that it was workable.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you to the subcommittee, and I'd like to make a motion to approve.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There we go. I wanted to say thank you to Ms. Patterson as well. Christine's worked very difficult and in a very demanding job. I would like to say almost a thankless job. So I would like to thank her for her work. dedication to her position, and I'd like to wish her well. I think it's certainly understandable that not driving quite as far as she drives, which is way too long, and being close to her daughter, even though it's going to be difficult to find someone in this very difficult position. But thank you, Kirsteen. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, this was discussed at the curriculum subcommittee and the subcommittee voted to bring it forth with a positive endorsement. However, we didn't have the paperwork at the time, so that was given to you. So at this point, I'd like to make a motion that we go ahead with the adoption of the new curriculum. Just as a reminder, if any parents have concerns, they can opt their students out. But from what I hear, most more people are interested in making sure that their children have this valuable information. Second. Second. Sorry, Jenny. It's okay. I don't care who seconds it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van de Kloot. Kirsteen, I just wanted to make sure, is the bus company presently and continuing to pay their employees? They are. Okay. And at the same time, the bus company, like all of those athletic trips that we would be taking now, we are not paying for, is that correct? Correct. Okay. I would like to make a motion that we authorize you, Ms. Patterson, to negotiate on our behalf as long as the bus company is committed to paying their employees.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I defer to Ms. Patterson to find out which way would she bring it back to us?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have a comment. Yes, member Vanden Heuvel. the number of potential subcommittees we might be having. I think at this time, while we're under crisis, that we need to not have them. And I don't know how many requests people have put in to have them, but I am concerned. I think we do need to limit the amount we're asking of our administrators until we get back to normal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. So I think my concern is the number of subcommittee meetings, and I have no idea how many requests there were. And so maybe I can just ask if the superintendent keep us abreast at how many are being asked for, because I just want to keep it real and appropriate for this particular time. Obviously, you guys know I love going to subcommittee meetings, but it depends on, this is an unusual time and I think people are already taxed, so I want to make sure we're being smart about it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Including our grocery store workers. and our healthcare workers and our emergency people, all of those people who need our support.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham? Yes. Member Kritz? Kathy? Yes. Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. So the school committee made a motion that everybody, all of our employees would be paid until May 4th. And at that time we will revisit this decision. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham. On that motion, by the way, it was made by Paul Rousseau and seconded by? Member Graham. Okay, so Member Graham? Yes. Kreatz? Abstain. McLaughlin? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: can you hear me? Yes. Okay. So member Jenny Graham? Here. Member Kathy Kreatz? Here. Member Melanie McLaughlin? Present. Member Mia Mustone? Right here. Member Paul Rousseau? Present. Member Paulette Van der Kloot? Present.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor. Yes, member van de Kloot. Yes, Mr. Zigney, I just wanted to ask. I know that there's been some frustrations with working out your student enrollment in the music programs in particular. What are you looking at for next year? And because you mentioned some frustrations this year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You said that the two requests for the two additional faculty were not included in that one. Is that, just remind me because I don't remember since our last budget meeting, if anybody else had made requests for additional personnel, were they not included in the baseline budget?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: In any department?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have a question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Given the, can you tell us, Molly, what was the number of Chromebooks given out to students so far?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So given that that many has come out and will take a certain amount of use and abuse, is there, and also just understanding, even with that amount given out, there might really be more need. So Are we really okay with the numbers that we've got right now, or is it just very conservative?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What does one cost?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to weigh in.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can we pick one of the areas that we want to see? No. No. In terms of time by, or, you know, you said June 1st. Can we say June, hold it out a little bit longer? You know. 15th? We're running out of daylight. And by the way, I'm certainly willing to, you know, I know, I know that we wanted to put the budget meetings before the other meetings, and I know that there's a lot of planning time, but we could consider doing a different night as well, or time. I'm just trying to work out, I hear the administration saying, oh my God, we've got so much to do, and I hear your need of saying, We need to see more in depth. I think we have discussed, and I think we will discuss some of it in depth, but I'm trying to look for a place that might be a little more amenable to administration. Can we push it out, Christine?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm not sure that's necessarily real right now. However, Yeah. I don't know what is public and not.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would concur that I've certainly heard the information before that it's not that this information was withheld. I think it's just the update on the information. And in previous years, we also waited because the accounts were not finished off yet to a later date in the year. So I certainly would endorse what Ms. Patterson is saying. So, you know, we can certainly shoot for October 15th. Um, I think, um, if so we can take the vote and move on now, um, that that would be our objective would be, would be good. Uh, and we'll, um, you know, all things considered.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. All right, Member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Cathy? She might have got it. Oh, okay. Member McLaughlin?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Mustone? Yes. What, she left? Okay, absent. She's here, she said yes. Yes, okay. Member Van der Kloot? Yes. And Member Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor, shall I call the roll?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Member Graham?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Kritz? Member Cress? Present.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member McLaughlin? Present. Member Mustone? Member Mustone? Yes, here. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot, present. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just was curious whether we've had any discussions with the Japanese Language School in particular. I do know in previous years, or over the years, they've sometimes been able to work out something where perhaps they would, in fact, pay for the – continue to make their payments this year, of course impacting that next year, then they would – that would be offset. But have we had any discussions yet?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would just be hopeful that we might have a conversation with them and at least negotiate somewhat better terms for us because it's a large number.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I continue? I think that the question that many of us will have has to do with classes of employees who work for some of the revolving accounts. And I don't know if you want to address that now. I think that's one of the most important things.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Until that time, since it's been put off another week, is everybody being paid in the afterschool and program?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Kids Corner employees will be- Everybody, everybody. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, this is the time of year where there are various other activities that entail contracts, for example, for the junior and senior prom, perhaps for some of the senior activities. Has that money already been paid out? Like, let's take one of the proms, for example. And is that just so that we don't, so our students don't lose that money? Where are we in the process around those type of expenses?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Kritz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Yeah. Yeah. I don't think she can hear. I hear you. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Bandolier? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: First, I, too, would like to thank everybody for all of their hard work. And I know that so much time you've put together to put together this information for us. And it's very much appreciated. You know, in this first two weeks, it's been hard to understand what the consistency across the district is. I had some wonderful conversations with very happy parents about the information their students were getting, and so very, very positive feedback. But what I don't know was how consistent that was, and whether there were some students who weren't having as good as opportunities as others. Now, this obviously now takes this to a different level. One of my first questions is, is we have lost time, and was there any discussion about what we're gonna do during April vacation had? No answers, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, everybody's just assuming April vacation is going to be a no work time, or are we going to reflect on the fact that we've just lost two weeks? Some degrees, how are we going to look at that? People aren't going anywhere. Kids are going to be home.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So that's something that's going to need to be considered and you know personally I would just hope even if the activities didn't continue that week that there would be you know a list of things for kids to do because if they're going to be home at least have them some level of direction. So you know I'm just wondering about that. And I do realize that this, you know, it's been a recent now that closed till May 4th, you know, and who knows? We don't know. We don't know about the future. Other questions I had, are teachers coming in to assemble packets of information? You mentioned that, you know, we don't want it to be all, is anybody coming into our schools or are they just assembling them at home if they're sending out any information?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, I- Ms. Caldwell?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We are basically at a stay at home. So I wouldn't want to jeopardize our teachers in any way, safe words, but I'm asking the question because I don't think, I don't want parents to think that they're necessarily gonna get a packet of information in the mail because I think for many, that's really not real. So that's why I wanted the clarification. My last sort of topic right now is on guidance. This is the time period where many of our seniors are receiving, if they haven't already, acceptances. There will be some kids who are going to need last-minute Oh my gosh, I need another recommendation or something. And I've just somewhat interested in what guidance is doing and how we're making sure that all of our students, particularly our seniors, are receiving the help that they need during this critical period.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Any idea about applications for the scholarships, the end of year scholarships, which usually are coming in around beginning now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. Member Graham.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to inquire about our homeless students. Have we done any outreach to the students who are in Medford? And have we given them any support in particular? And who's in charge of doing so?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so I looked at this and again, I realized that part of it is because of the school vacation week, but I feel very uncomfortable that we would have a meeting on the 13th and then not again to the 4th. And so I think it's really important that we add a meeting on the 27th. I don't need a full agenda. meeting, but I need an opportunity where we are brought together and we can talk and ask questions. So I'm not, you know, it's a long gap and I'm just not comfortable with, this was a very, very long two weeks that your members had. And we know you were working really hard and we appreciate that, but in our role, that was an extraordinarily long time. So when I see that just by chance, and I understand that this is the way it would have been under our regular meetings, But under this circumstance, I'm just not comfortable with that amount of time between our meetings, especially because, you know, May 4th, we may be starting school again, we don't know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the only reason I didn't suggest the 20th was because of the fact that it is during that school vacation week. I'm free. So which of course in today and doesn't exist anymore. So I'm just mentioning that again, the sense of we have a difference in terms of and this certainly was discussed over these last two weeks in terms of the school committees need to be able to talk to each other without having the full agenda, without having the, you know, because I understand and appreciate how much work this meeting is. How do we set it up so that we have a touch base opportunity?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like my colleagues to weigh in some, and I would like, you know, some concern about the 20th was vacation week so far. If you're comfortable, you know, in this one, I'd give to Marisa and say the 20th. It just seems very difficult to have a meeting on the 13th and not again to the 4th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just would like to ask the administrative people whether they're OK with the 20th as opposed to the 13th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Earlier. Is that you, Janine? I can't do as early as 3.30, but I could do 4, I guess. OK. 4 o'clock.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member McLaughlin? Here. Member Mustone? Here. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot, present. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Ms. Stone? Yes. Russo? Yes. Van der Kloot? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Ms. Stone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member van de Kloot, yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There we go. So the curriculum subcommittee met on Wednesday, February 26, between 4.30 and 5.30 at the superintendent's conference room in Medford High School. In attendance were the subcommittee members, myself and Jenny Graham. Mia was absent. School committee member Paul Rousseau attended the meeting, as did Superintendent Maryse Edward-Vincent, Associate Superintendent Diane Caldwell, Assistant Superintendent Peter Cushing, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Bernadette Riccidelli, Director of PE Health Rachel Puri, and Middle School Parent Michelle Ciccolo. I called the meeting together at 435 and we saluted the flag. The purpose of the meeting was to review proposed additions to the middle school health curriculum. We received handouts from Rachel Puri, including the table of contents for the national health standards and a table reviewing the current Medford health curriculum with the national standards. Areas where we were not in alignment were highlighted. Director Puri reviewed the charts with the subcommittee. Currently we use part of the Michigan model, but now we should be incorporating more areas of the most recent Michigan model edition to cover areas related to sexual health. We are covering areas such as vaping, alcohol, drug education, nutrition, physical activity, safety, and other areas of social emotional learning. Currently, the state standards are not out. So at present, we need to rely on the national standards. Director Perry explained the health is offered for a half year in grade six, seventh, and eighth. The other half of the year, the students receive instruction from guidance in order to cover the new areas of instruction. In order to cover the new areas of instruction, one full-time health teacher will be needed. Member Graham asked about the trade-off between students receiving health versus the ability to participate in band or orchestra. Parent Ciccolo noted that her child had no health in sixth grade because of a conflict with orchestra, In seventh grade, her child traded phys ed in order to get health instruction. School committee member Rousseau noted that often students on IEPs miss subjects like health. Assistant Superintendent Peter Cushing said that our kids are under a constant bombardment on vaping and other risky behaviors. He believes a trained health professional is of highest priority, a must have. Guiding staff not trained to teach these health areas. The superintendent concurred and noted that budget decisions are going to be tough because of the many needs. Since the new curriculum covers areas related to sex education, such as gender identity, anatomy, puberty, and contraception, all parents will receive the opt-out notification, which the district has used for many years. The sequencing of the curriculum will be given careful consideration. The high school ninth grade health class will be reviewed and updated. Scheduling at the middle school is challenging. Member Graham offered the following statement to summarize our current position. We recognize that there are scheduling issues that mean parents have to make choices that we would rather they did not have to make. We are very aware of the issues and are working to address them. Motion by Member Graham, seconded by myself. The Curriculum Subcommittee recommends that the school committee adopt Growing Up and Staying Healthy Michigan model health curriculum with supplements in order to assure that we are aligned with the national health standards. Roll call was Graham, yes. Van der Kloot, yes. Ms. Stone was absent. Motion to adjourn at 5.30 by Member Graham and seconded by myself. And the motion passed. So we would like to make a motion tonight. We would ask that the school committee adopt, recommendation is that we adopt growing up, the subcommittee recommendation is that we adopt growing up and staying healthy, the Michigan model health curriculum with supplements.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't know. I think there were resources that the teachers would be using. They were not specified. However, we did address the needs of the fact that there was concerns about getting the curriculum to everybody. And that's one of the reasons why the recommendation is to add a full-time health teacher at that level, because we need to be more comprehensive in our ability to deliver the information to students, all students.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Am I correct in saying when it's tabled, it's tabled?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Member Graham. »» Okay. Can I make a clarification? »» Sure. »» The reason I motioned to table it was because a member asked for additional information that I did not provide. Because typically when we've had a handout we don't always provide it that's not customary. But I didn't provide it and since a member asked for that information and we didn't provide it, that's why I made the motion to lay it on the table.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, if I may, there's also a budget piece of getting a, whether we're going to approve the additional health personnel, which is going to make this possible. Um, I absolutely understand. I think that as soon as a member requests a piece of information, I mean, the mayor just said, I don't feel comfortable voting on it unless I see that. Um, so, uh, it would be as you and I both being on the subcommittee, we very, very much want to see this go through. Um, At this point, I'm willing to wait for two weeks. I would not have to read the minutes again. We would just have to bring it back up. So I'll lay it on the table to the next meeting. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Lungo-Koehn. I'd like to ask for suspension of, oh, sorry, not yet. Hold on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van der Kloot. I had a question about the timeline. I also, I guess my first question is, did the subcommittee endorse, I don't see a motion for approval. Was there, sorry, where is it? And was it a three to one vote? Or a three to zero vote? Okay. So I have a question about, okay, here, I see it now. I have a question about the timeline. It appears that it gives the superintendent or her designee within two normal school days to respond with the following. You know, when I'm up there signing the bills on Wednesday, I have to say that my observation is that people are running, running, running, juggling so many balls in the air. I don't think two normal school days is sufficient. I understand everybody thinks that whatever they have, as do I, is the most pressing issue. But I don't think that's real to hold the superintendent to, and I don't want her to be under pressure to simply designating something to everybody else. And then sometimes she may need to think about it. So I don't find two days to be sufficient. I would ask the superintendent, since this affects you directly, is what sort of timeline you would think would be reasonable?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van de Kloot. Sure, so first I want to say I do appreciate the work that the subcommittee did on this. The superintendent has indicated her willingness to try it out. My concern, again, just stands, perhaps I would change it to three normal school days. I'm trying to work through my head. Okay, it's written on Sunday, it gets sent so it's received Monday. That means the expectation is that it would get answered by Tuesday. afternoon, but all hell breaks out loose on Monday and Tuesday they're running about. So, you know, again, part of me just, I absolutely understand, you know, what the intent is and I think we are all reasonable people, but I'm always concerned when we write policy like this that someone then could come along and be holding, hold the superintendent to something that we agreed would be flexible and we're trying out. And so, to me, it just seems very quick. And I'd be more comfortable with a three-day return, personally. I would go, certainly, with asking the rest of the school committee whether, you know, I'll make a motion that the response within three normal school days as opposed to two, and you either vote up or down, and I'm happy to take whatever the consensus is. So I make a motion, if anybody wants to you know, approve it or second it, that'd be three. Okay, thank you, Kathy.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Kreatz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye. All those opposed? It should be a roll call. Roll call. Member Van der Kloot. Member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot, yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Can we take a copy of your statement? Sure. Is that OK? Yeah. I would recommend that we take this and put it under consideration so that we can take a look at in-depth of your proposals. And I'm also very glad that you acknowledged so much that the district has made grave strides in these last months. So thank you very much. Can I take that one and we can make a copy and send it back to you maybe? I can have it. Thank you. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All in favor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van de Kloot. I also wanted to add my thanks Diane and not only for all of your years but I have to emphasize for the last two years because you really were the constant in the office who helped us through the transition of superintendents and that was just an incredibly important role for you to play and you know you could have looked around and said oh I don't think so but instead you chose to stay and to be the transition link and so I think for that not only for that but also for your many years back I remember when you were teaching at the Curtis Tufts and I always thought you were something special so thank you very very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Thank you. Member Van der Kloot. Yes, I'd like to go back and talk about the coronavirus more. What I'm particularly interested in is our proactive plans to talk about education if we were to have to close the schools for a week or two or whatever. I mean, at this point, I understand it's speculative, but I think planning would help.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great, I'd love to see homework packets put together, you know, and if possible, or even, you know, read with your child two times for 20 minutes every day or something while whatever break we're on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the other concern I have, just with that, that goes hand in hand, is that some of our students are reliant on two meals a day through the public schools. And at least, like I'm thinking at the high school level, we've got the pantry. could those students be encouraged to take more? And if the pantry needs more food, could you put a call out to the community so we can fill it up right now so that there's more food available? And I'm thinking about other things. I mean, all of a sudden, you know, we have students who would be home and not accessing our food. How can we make sure that we're being proactive and thinking about supplying some food to families that might be in a particular vulnerable place. So anyway, I'm glad to hear the administrators are getting together tomorrow. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'm hoping that we will do this, send home information so that we don't get to a Monday morning and all of a sudden cancel and the kids haven't received anything on Friday afternoon.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: to something my colleague said that there would be our teachers and staff and whatever would continue on their regular pay scale as per contract whether we close or not that that would not affect our personnel in terms of being paid and it I'm not sure that's what you said but that's what it sounded like okay just want to be clear
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The blessing is right now is that we have quite a number of days still left. So because of the light snow. But saying that, I probably, there was a year, so I won't say anything.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So did all of the students buy the cancel for any reason insurance?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And at this point in the time window, do I understand they'll only get 50% back? Yes. And we've had no talks with the company to say whether that could be?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So within that, In terms of the airfare, some airlines are allowing waves or will give credit for future trips. What were you planning on flying?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I hope that we could look into that, because it's quite a hit for a family. I mean, it's a disappointment for students, and I feel terrible about this. And so anything that we can at least get the most money back for the families. thought or discussion of saying, could we do the trip during the summer instead?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for all your work and effort. And I can feel your pain. So I really appreciate your thoughtful answer and the fact that you had to make this tough decision. Oh, yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I believe I can concur with Melanie on many of the points that she makes. It's not reasonable. It never was a reasonable timeline. It seems ludicrous that they're asking for such a quick return across the way. My mom used to say, it never hurts to ask. So I think putting together a well-crafted letter saying we would respectfully ask you for more time, we don't believe that this is an adequate amount of time for us to engage our families and whatever. I mean, I would absolutely submit it. I would actually go further and talk to the other superintendents who are also grappling with this. Maybe there's a few who've managed to figure it out, but I bet there's a whole lot of superintendents trying to slam this together, as we will be doing. But on the other hand, I'm not willing to leave money on the table. And so I think we need to go ahead and send it to the engagement committee. I think we need to write the letter because nothing ventured, nothing gained, okay? That we should do that and hope for the best. And in the meantime, do whatever work we can do so that we are prepared to file what we have, whether it's perfect or not, because I'm not going to leave $138,000 on the table. I can think of many, many different things that we've talked in the budget. that might be helpful to our students and to all students. So, yeah. Point of clarification, member Ruseau.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So if we don't submit the plan we automatically still get the money?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham. Present. Member Kreatz. Here. Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Mustone is absent. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot? Present. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Motion for suspension of the rules. Member Van der Kloot? I make a suspension in order to take up Number 61, 62, 73 and 76.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think my button was pressed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van de Kloot. Judy, I just want to thank you before you leave the auditorium for your amazing work. You and your, I know you, that's my next sentence. You and your team just do a fabulous job. The amount of money that was raised and has been raised consecutively. Do you have a total for all the years? 200,000. Wow. Wow, that's just fabulous. Thank you so much. Member Graham.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to thank the two student ambassadors for your presentation. It was great. You joined a long list of watched with pride when our students have been selected. It's a big deal to be selected from your school. And we are grateful for how well you represented us already on the special day and your work in the future. We expect to see a lot of you, and let us know if we can help. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Member Graham? Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone is absent. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Is absent. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I do the curriculum one. OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we want to suspend, before we go on to this order of business, do we want to suspend the rules and continue our meeting? What would you like to suspend the rules for? Right, because this is going to take some time to read it all. Sure. Okay, so I'd like to make a motion to suspend the rules so we can pick up the two departments that were not heard yet from our pre budget meeting. Yes, motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. Member Van der Kloot. Mr. Seary, I just want to go back to the issue of the ninth grade biology. So of course, as you know, for many, many years, biology was the ninth grade subject. And in fact, the physics was changed to the ninth grade subject because of the fact that the students needed to take a ninth grade science MCAS and it was thought that the physics was more approachable maybe or whatever. Anyway, I'm glad to see biology coming back. I think it fits well in the ninth grade. I think all students should be able to take it then. But I am wondering about the change of thinking about will the students then take the biology MCAS in ninth grade?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and so will our teachers who were teaching biology in an upper grade now come teach it to ninth graders?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And will the physics Will there still be that introductory physics, or will physics be left?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Will we have any earth science course at all offered?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And this change will happen in September?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: September 2020. That's with relatively quick, but I imagine that your staff is all on board for this? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So with the change in the Italian consulate covering the money for the paraprofessionals, I think that we need to have a discussion about how we will use that time, whether we'll continue as we are or whether there's something else that's needed in the curriculum. I don't know how much time people have yet from the administrative have been able to consider the options and what might be needed. I would make a motion to send this topic to the curriculum subcommittee meeting once people are ready to address it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to approve. Member Van der Kloot. I second the motion and thank Ms. Gozmez as well. This is not the first year she's done it and we appreciate her generosity and support. Absolutely. Great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, we should. Yes, we should. Thank you. Roll call vote. Roll call to accept the donation. Member Graham. Yes. Member Kreatz. Yes. Member McLaughlin. Yes. Member Mustone is absent. Member Ruseau. Yes. Member Van der Kloot. Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, my questions are concerning the students left behind. Mr. Tucci, you noted that the kids, you were thinking of a trip to the Medford High School swimming pool. And is that the same thought for the Andrews students?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I understand that for many students, maybe going to the high school pool is great, but not all students know how to swim. And part of me says going to New York City for the weekend versus going to the pool. I think that students used to go into Boston or have something outside of Medford. So I'm just sort of curious about that choice.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: For kids who either didn't know how to swim or was there a swimming assessment? How did how did we handle that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, I absolutely can understand that it would be great, and if it is great, I wouldn't want to change it, but I certainly feel like I need to ask about it, because it is, you know, it's just not as great as going to New York City. no matter how much we might love the pool. Okay, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So on that motion, Member Graham. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone is absent. Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Vanderkloot, yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member van de Kloot. If the trip needs to be canceled at the last minute for any reason, what is the policy regarding a refund?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And while I'm at it, for the New York trip, if there was a cancellation, is there insurance to cover that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I thought we required that there would be.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You are talking to the person whose child was in the grade when the trip was canceled and they stayed at the Medford Hotel rather than being able to go to New York City. So a little concerned about that. Could you just check into it and maybe we'll talk, clarify?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Thank you. Member Graham.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, and I realize that it is somewhat amusing that the Curriculum Subcommittee, which will speak to ECRI, has not yet been reported out yet, only because of the suspensions that we've had this evening. But we will get to it and explain a little more. So in the notes First results were given to parents for grade one and two in November, and then kindergarten parents have now, they've all received some results. So I'm curious whether initially we were surprised at the number of kids, or it was what we expected, or no, it was lower than we expected. I was sort of curious about your initial reactions. And then I'm wondering if we have supports to help students right away who were red flagged in this process.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. And how about what you're seeing initially?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then lastly, where then becomes the line where we determine that a student is is dyslexic or severely dyslexic so that they need more than classroom supports, but they need a specialized, maybe special education support.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, great. Thank you so much. Thank you for all your work.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess sort of remembering the discussion last year with all good intentions that we would want to provide instruction to people, because as Member Graham says, it's an incredible responsibility and there's a lot of reporting things that you need to do when all of a sudden you're the treasurer and you need to make sure you're following all the guidelines. But in fact, what I see, and I think Paul has just touched on it, is that right now we notice I mean, our people are working hard, and they're pretty tapped out. So I don't know how we can possibly ask someone within to pursue this right now. However, I think that we can. It's worthwhile to talk to the MASC and ask them whether any of their member districts, what they do. We might reach out to some other school committees and see whether they give any training. I mean, if there's something that already exists would be so much more preferable than having to spend any time putting something together, even if that would be a great thing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Member Van der Kloot. So I'll reach out to the MASC and at least ask the question there of whether they know of any training, whether that's a voice where we can get a message out saying, hey, does your school system do something? So that at least we can start sort of saying, is there anything around that we could adopt? So I'll do that first piece. Thank you. Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so I'm going to make this the short version because of the long hour. But you've heard ECRI being referred to any number of times this evening. Associate Superintendent Diane Caldwell welcomed everybody and she explained that there would be, on March 3rd, a half day of professional development session conducted by Hill for literacy and professional development would continue next year. ECRI materials consist of downloadable PDFs for classroom instruction and full district implementation is expected to occur at the beginning of next fall. We received two handouts. Dr. Chiesa spoke about ECRI as a multi-tiered program, Tier 1 and Tier 2, featuring a series of teaching routines designed to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of reading instruction in K-2. The program is being introduced to improve student achievement in word reading and comprehension, fluency, and phonological awareness. Tier one of the program is whole group instruction. Tier two is targeted intervention. Our teacher, Kristen Howell, title one at the Columbus, worked with ECRIB this past summer through a grant in conjunction with DESE and spoke highly of the program. Also at our meeting, Michelle Donahue, a Medford resident and a teacher in another district, spoke to her very positive experience with ECRI. Her district uses a different reading program than Medford's journeys, but they have the same concerns about foundational weaknesses that we are seeing. Ms. Donaghy brought her teaching materials and explained facets of the day-to-day implementation. She sees it as something that easily fit into her current teaching and bolstered her students' understanding. Member Graham asked when the Journeys Program would be evaluated. A discussion about the complexity of implementing all the new curriculum pieces followed, and we covered that some in our budget meeting tonight. Dr. Keyes explained that it was essential not to overwhelm teachers while other new curriculums were being adopted. Member van der Kloot asked Director Teixeira whether ECRI program would be useful for EL, and he explained he responded in the affirmative. Parent Sharon Hayes expressed some concerns with Journey's approach to the teaching of combination letter sounds. Diane Caldwell noted that the cost of ECRI is $275 per level. The combined cost came to $3,300, and the cost would be covered by Title I funds. The motion was accepted, was made to accept ECRI, was made by myself and seconded by Ms. Stone, and the motion passed three to one. The chair asked about upcoming topics, and we have a list, elementary, ELA, and math, suggestion to create the overall map of the curriculum. We reviewed, we suggested we talk about civic standards in fourth and eighth grade, the amount of assessments, possibly reviewing elementary Italian program, and win assessments. And we adjourned at 6.59 p.m. I would like to add to this and announce that we have another curriculum subcommittee meeting this Wednesday at 4.30, between 4.30 and 5.30. The purpose is to discuss proposed changes to the middle school health curriculum. So we'll be meeting this week again, okay?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It will be up at Medford High School. Medford High School. It would be appropriate for the school committee to endorse the adoption of ECRI. So I'd like to make a motion that the school committee endorse the proposed adoption of ECRI. Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There was one piece of it that was worth noting tonight, but she already left.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Mustone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruseau.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot, present. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Kreatz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Mustone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruseau.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot. Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham. Yes. Member Kreatz. Yes. Member McLaughlin. Yes. Member Mustone. Yes. Member Ruseau. Yes. Member Van der Kloot. Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn. Yes. Member Kreatz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Prior to the report of secretary, I'd like to make a motion to suspend the rules for the purposes of discussing a proclamation to make Medford hunger-free and also to move up community participation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Member van de Kloot. I just want to say thank you to all those involved. This is a great thing. And motion for approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Kreatz?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member McLaughlin?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Mustone?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruseau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I think my colleagues have summed up many of the discussion points, but I feel particularly disheartened to hear from Ms. Donlon that any student felt that they were getting negative feedback because of this. And I just want to say, and add my voice, that I applaud you for coming forward and for advocating for yourself. That is exactly what we want you to do. And we're appreciative of your time and presence here this evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: While we heard from students involved in the after school program, we have other students who work for us. And it would only be equitable to understand the full breadth of student employees. For instance, we have students who are lifeguards. That's part of the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have several things to bring to your attention. At our last school committee meeting, Member McLaughlin asked, and it was reflected in our minutes, about the conversations with non-English speaking families from the health office, and we talked about a translation service that were used. So I pulled one of the bills so that you could see it. I want to note that the names that are on it are not student names. They are, in fact, the employees. But I thought you would just be interested. You can see that sometimes the conference is only two minutes, and sometimes it's 14 minutes. But this is that we employ a service to help with the translation. So I brought that in. I'm going to pass them around. And I would ask that they all, they are copies, but if you just return them to me, I'd appreciate it. Secondarily, and this is kind of an ode to my former colleague, our former colleague, Erinda Benedetto, I pulled a bill that was for professional cleaning. Whenever I see professional odor remediation services that piqued my interest so I followed it up. It had to do with the Curtis-Tufts. They had a problem in the library classroom. So on December 26th, when students were not in the building, they brought in ServPro to help remediate that issue. And so you'll see that bill. Lastly, I just thought you might be interested that we have received new textbooks for our students for our civic education in grade 7. And I brought in the bills for you to see that. Unfortunately, much to my dismay, I realized that they are already out of date as I couldn't help but look under impeach. And it mentioned that only, you know, two presidents have been impeached. And so, we are obviously, our teachers are going to have to update that information. But there is also a teacher. So, I brought them in just so you could see and know that these resources have been brought to our students. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: One further thing. I just want to extend again an invitation to any other member. I've been getting there on Wednesdays about 10, 15. And if anybody does want to join me, if you give me a heads up, then I'll make sure my timing's more exact. But please do feel free to come and join on Wednesdays up at the high school.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Member Franks. Yes. Member McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to say thank you to Mr. Nardone and ask that we send out a letter to him I know that I've seen his name for many years giving us different different things and and donations so very appreciative to him. Thank you. We need to do a roll call vote to accept this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham. Member Kreatz. Member McLaughlin. Member Mustone. Member Ruseau. Member Van der Kloot. Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Graham? Yes. Member Kreatz? Yes. Member McLaughlin? Yes. Member Mustone? Yes. Member Ruseau? Yes. Member Van der Kloot, yes. Member Lungo-Koehn? Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Member van de Kloot. Just one thing in the timeline that doesn't make sense to me. I note that the sibling opt-in, opt-out form is due on March 4th. But the open houses, the three of them occur after that deadline. So for me, it would make more sense for the sibling opt-in, opt-out form to be sent home, to be due on March 11th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But, you know, with... If it would work such that the sibling opt-in, opt-out form is not a drop-dead, but which is to say that instead they'd be collected with the ideal on March 4th. But if there were forms that were not turned in, there would be follow-up with the parent. I would be comfortable with that. But that's a procedural thing. If it's meant that if the parent doesn't return the form by that date, then I'm not particular, you know, one way or the other, then I'm not particularly comfortable with it. But I assume you'd be following up with it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. If you can make that, that makes them more comfortable with it. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I support the resolution. It sounds like where we're heading is that we're going to need to do some specialized preschool information directed to preschool parents. Especially, we have the Medford Family Network. We have parents we can outreach to. And I know one year I went and I was very disheartened by how many of those parents, it just happened that year, were going to charter schools. So it seems like with the feedback from my colleagues that it's definitely time to think about an earlier outreach. I think that these presentations are great. I know the staff does a fabulous job on them. But clearly, we're going to need to think about sooner. Sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so thank you for all the work to the team who's been putting and working on this document. Just for our clarity, I believe my understanding is that for each of the bullets, you'd hyperlink to a page that would outline in detail the steps needed to achieve and the person in charge. Of the bullets that we have here, roughly 16, 17, how many have we done that next step for? Or is that the next step?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If I can just follow up. Moving forward, what do you envision now? Do you envision it going to the subcommittee?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I, now that we've officially. She loves that. You're promoted. I'm out of here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, given that we are now official, I'd like to Announce that the curriculum subcommittee is going to meet on Wednesday at 6 o'clock between 6 and 7. We are meeting at the request of associate superintendent Diane Caldwell. for a presentation on enhanced core reading instruction. We did the unusual step of going ahead and setting up the meeting prior to sending it to the subcommittee officially from this body because of a timeline issue. So I hope that no one has any concern or objection. So that will be on this Wednesday, February 5th at 6 o'clock up at the high school. Thank you. Also, while we're under this, I noticed that we haven't yet received any appointees to the vision committee. And I just want to ask the mayor what her intention was about that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May I ask a question? Yes. I just wanna make sure, this is one of those circumstances where we have a meeting immediately after a vacation week. And so given that timeline, is that meeting the best meeting to do that? Are you prepared at that point?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I only raise it only because of the fact it is right after, and you know, some people are on vacation, but not all. Anyway, thank you, and I would support it. So motion for approval. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think the point of sending it to the subcommittee is so you can argue it out there about saying what makes sense to send, what's an ad hoc report. and does something like this qualify and how do you discern? So that's kind of my thinking about it is that there'll be multiple interesting discussions about this. That's why it's going to subcommittee. Not this resolution, what she's referring to with the ad hoc report, Mayor. Yeah, future resolutions. Well, you're going to have to figure that out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Kreatz? Here. Member McLaughlin? Here. Member Mustone? Here. Member Ruseau? Present. Member Van der Kloot, present. Mayor Lungo-Koehn? Present.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just one quick thing. I started signing the bills last Wednesday. It's going to be my custom to sign them on Wednesday morning at the high school. About 10 o'clock will be what I'm expecting. I'd like to invite my colleagues to come and join me. If you're available Wednesday, that's great. If you're not, we can do it some other time. If you want to just drop in at any point. Some weeks are heavier than other weeks, so you never know in advance. But please, if you would like to join me this Wednesday, let me know, just so I have a heads up. But I certainly think it's a valuable experience, so please do so when you can. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My colleagues have answered all my questions. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: School Committee Woman, Vanda Kloot. I just want to say thanks for your work on this. I've been able to go for a couple of years. This year I'll be able to volunteer for the whole period of time. It's a great event and a lot of fun. I'm particularly happy to hear too that you've been able to reach now into the middle schools with some activities there. Thank you. Great. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to say that as a member of the Medford Education Foundation, I know that we were thrilled to receive our grant. That money will, of course, be used for projects that teachers will submit to us, and we will go through our process to fund innovative and interesting projects that teachers have come up with. And we were thrilled, and we wanted to thank Kathy as a member of the committee and the rest of the committee for their work. Thank you. School committee, woman McLaughlin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This was an item which came up when we had a meeting initially with the school committee members and questions of whether we could have a more efficient agenda. I think that this should go to the subcommittee on rules and regulations, so I'd make a motion to send it there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. McLaughlin. Yes. Member Mustone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Member Ruseau. Yes. Member Van der Kloot. Yes. Mayor Lungo-Koehn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: School committee woman, Van de Kloof. I'd like to make a motion that we take up item number three under the report of superintendent, NPS bathrooms, from Mr. McLaughlin, so that we can address this right now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Lungo-Koehn. Yes. In the meantime, while we wait, I just want to thank Joey for coming forward and for making this statement and being proactive about what he's seeing at the high school. We are only as good as our information we received, Joey, so thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: School committee woman, Vanda Kloot. Two things. I just want to remind the committee that we had put together a five-year capital improvement plan at the end of last spring. And the bathrooms were part of that plan, if I recall. So we might want to take that out again, take a look at it. We had anticipated that there would be certain monies available. and just so that we're on track and consistent with that. And we may need to revisit it, of course, but the bathrooms were certainly an issue. And then secondarily, I also want this really falls, there's the sort of short-term immediacy of the issue, but there is the long-term. And from our subcommittee on buildings and grounds led by Kathy Kreatz, we made a motion that we would have a larger committee put together appointed by the mayor to look into the high school renovations. And so I know it's your first day, but that obviously is something that this falls underneath because how much money are we going to invest? What is the long term plan? What makes sense? Obviously, John, we need all of your efforts right now to make sure that the they're as presentable as possible. Absolutely. And we need to invest some short-term money, but there is a long-term issue as well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Correct.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I think we're through the 10 pages of the report. Oh, okay. Why don't we let Mr. Russo finish his questions, and then I've got a question on this. Sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Christina, I wanted to go back to your main report and on the back you noted we drew down from the following accounts as identified during the FY19 budget development progress. Do you have numbers? And I understand you might not have with them tonight, but can you tell me from the after school program how much money was used to offset other programs?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the before school, do you have those?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so really the major one really is the before and after school. Correct. Of about a half a million dollars that is used to offset other accounts.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, so it's less than that. Correct. However, it still leaves us the question of saying is that what we want with the tuitions and how else can we, should our budget be expanded so it really reflects real costs rather than the need to do creative fundraising.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Mr. Zigny and the students, we thank you so much for coming and gracing our halls again this evening as you have for so many years past. It sort of sets the tone for us and you know how much we appreciate it. I have to tell you that I and some of my colleagues were able to make some of the other performances this holiday season. And if I recall, that's not your first standing ovation for the orchestra. The orchestra concert was so great that people were blown away in the audience and everybody stood at the end, which doesn't often happen at a student performance like this, but it really was a testament to the work and dedication, both of our students and to their fabulous teacher. Thank you so much. Merry Christmas or happy holidays.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, parents, for bringing the students.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I agree that limiting the goals was in fact an excellent plan and really gave focus to the committee. And rest assured, we certainly will be making sure that the work continues and will be focused and will continue along the lines, the trajectory that you started us on. Thank you, Erin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke, I would like to make a motion to suspend the order of business. I'd like to take superintendent's updates and comments at the end of our calendar, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You've always been there for us and one of the things is that so often we are just in sync with our thinking and it's absolutely a pleasure and I thought this is such a great time to recognize the work that you do not only for the Student Opportunities Act but every day. Of course, we're going to need your continued work and to advocate for us to make sure, you know, there's those dirty words, subject to appropriation, and we want to make sure that, in fact, where the places are, we can maximize the benefit for Medford. So thank you very, very much. I was hoping that we could all do a picture with your bells in front here. So take them out again, and let's ring the bell for education.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Item three.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Could we please send letters of thanks to Noah and the other students as well as anybody else who took part? The veterans on behalf from the school committee, please. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to comment because I was a colleague of Lena's for such a long time. And Lena was a force to be reckoned with. My most wonderful memory was when Lena, in her high heels, because Lena was always dressed to the T, and I climbed to every roof. And this is when the Osgoode was still standing, so we're talking many years ago. We climbed to the top of every roof and examined them ourselves. This was before. the schools were built. This was way before that, as a matter of fact. And Lena was going to never let anything stop her. I thought Lena would have been so happy in her own right because, you know, it's a Monday and Lena is being waked tonight. I went to the wake earlier. And she used to love when the music played. And Lena was, we didn't always agree, but Lena was passionate about education. And so we send our heartfelt condolences to her family and memories of the many years that she decked these halls.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. I have a few words to say, which is traditional. It's always a bittersweet moment when we come to this place and we recognize the work of our fellow colleagues, but also know that change is happening. Michael, you and I stood out together this election day, all day, from the beginning of the day to the end of the day. And there was no way that I was going to let you leave one minute before me and vice versa. But we had a wonderful time talking and chatting with each other and I thought, boy, what a benefit this was. And during that time, I really appreciated as I talked to you and heard what a passionate dad you are to your two wonderful sons and a husband to your lovely wife. It was, you brought a breath of fresh air to us. It's not every day that we have a blueberry farmer amongst us, and that was something that I think was always interesting to your colleagues. We always want to know more. And to that end, tonight I'm bringing you Mr. Ashley's blueberries, which happened to be on sale. At the school committee conference, I kid you not, I couldn't believe it. It is a lovely, lovely book. And I am sure that you're going to enjoy reading it to your young sons. And Michael, I think this is hardly the last that we're going to see you. Your time here has been relatively brief. But I think that you've probably, I certainly was enriched by your presence and I hope that you've enjoyed your stay here. And I suspect very, very much that we will hear more from you in the future and that you will continue your outspoken passion for education. Specifically, Michael, as you talked about reelection, you mentioned your concern about the obesity epidemic for children, and that, of course, brings into it also the concerns about exercise and recess. And so as one of the members who is continuing on, I promise you that I will take up that mantle and continue it so that your work and thoughts in that direction will be continued. Michael, thank you so much for your tenure, for being here, and for being one of my colleagues. Aaron. We're not done. So, Erin, I can't believe that eight years have passed because it seems like just yesterday that you joined our committee. And I'm having a hard time with that processing that really you've been on the committee eight years, and I'm probably having an even harder time believing that you're leaving. I want to thank you, too, for your work. You know, it's not only just you, but also we got to meet and become friends with your wonderful husband, Joe. We heard about Caitlin and Joey. We lived just through one wedding and know that there's another wedding upcoming and house buying and whatever. And I remember them when they were so much younger, and you were, sorry, younger. active parent, well I'm older so it's okay, active parent, a band parent, I remember all your work for the prom dress and mostly I think that your work for the Curtis Tufts keeping that school in vision, in mind, saying, how are we going to approve it? We need new shades, we need the floor. It was just each meeting, we wondered what else you would come up with because you were intent of making sure that that work would be done, just as you were with the special education subcommittee. Your tenacity, your thoughtfulness, we didn't always agree, but within that, we certainly had a level of respect with each other, and that's something that I really appreciate. So, Erin, I too believe, like Michael, that you will continue on and be very active in Medford. I'm not quite sure exactly how that's going to turn out, which direction you're going to go in, but I know that it will be one that you will work very hard at as you find your passion and I also believe strongly that you are not over for education and that we will see you here in these halls again. Erin, thank you for your dedication and your time and your commitment to the children of Medford.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I now want to turn to Mayor Burke. who has been a fantastic mayor for the city of Medford. But more importantly for us, for this contingent, for these people sitting here, you have been a fantastic chair of the Medford School Committee, and we thank you so very much. It's not been the easiest of four years, but your accomplishments have been great, and you have ruled with steadfast Eye on the prize, passion in the direction of what's best for the children. The time, and I know that you've said it, but more was seeing you with the kids. I know how much you loved going to the schools and seeing and being with them. And believe me, you'll always be welcome in our halls because you have a natural ability with the kids. And it was just wonderful to see that piece of you, which I hadn't known before. But your accomplishments, of course, are bigger, although we have to recognize that one of the key things of your administration is that we made a transfer from a very longstanding superintendent, Mr. Belson, and made a commitment to a search to be open, to be inclusive, and we, under your direction, we were able to identify and bring in Dr. Marice Edouard-Vincent. And I certainly think that you should keep that as high on your accomplishment list. Not to mention, by the way, I drove by the police building going up and I saw the light shining and of course I also have the luxury of driving past the library renovation which will also have your fingerprints on it. It's hard. to say goodbye, but again we hope that you'll play a very active role in Medford in the future. We appreciate so much that, I mean I can't say enough, but that sense of professionalism of keeping what is important for the Medford public schools. How do we proceed? How do we move on and through and make the best for our students. Thank you for your leadership. Thank you for your friendship. Thank you for being you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. I believe we have some other people in the house who also wanted to recognize the mayor. Yep. Did you want me to do the... Whichever way if you want to do those. I just don't want to forget at the last minute.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was vice president of the photo club in high school. I knew
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You guys should come up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much Writers of those letters from the school committee members thanking them for weighing in on behalf of our students I
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: First, I'll start at the top. I want to thank you, Michael and Rich, for coming tonight and for updating us. Of course, we know what a positive thing this is. And as I've been sitting here and reading some of the other projects that happened at the elementary level, something else occurred to me. So first, at the elementary level, I happened to look in my book and one was teal pumpkin awareness for letting the community know more about the teal pumpkins means on Halloween, that there are non-food items available in case kids have allergies. And another one, you know, more books for little free libraries. We see the little free libraries popping up, but not enough kids books. So that was another one. And all of a sudden, as I was thinking about this, I was thinking, because of course, we know what fantastic high school projects we've had and how wonderful you just represented yourself. But when I go to the music concerts, one of the things I'm always struck about is how when people, students get up at that spring concert, They often thank the music teachers because it is the music teachers who have continuity from the elementary to the middle to the high school. And what we've now managed to build with the CCSR is that there's a continuity. of ideals going from the elementary to the middle to the high school and soon because of this while the time the kids get to the high school of course we'll always be welcoming more new high school students but we'll also be building the space that will come up And that's an incredibly powerful thing. So I'm very appreciative of the success that we've had and the building that we've done over the years. I did just want to mention to Marie, I read an article, I believe it was the Boston Globe, just a week or so ago, talking about how difficult it was that while our students from less Students perhaps who come from families who were their first time college students, while they might get into college, it's difficult for them to stay into college and they're not necessarily prepared for all of the challenges. And laying that base now for them to be able to talk to college students is just wonderful. All of the projects we heard tonight were wonderful and I can't wait to hear about all the other ones that will be happening from all the levels. Thank you so much. Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: is that you'll come and sit over there in that chair, and you can ask us any questions that you want. You can participate. And if you have any questions before a meeting, we'd be happy to, you know, please reach out to us. Your voice is extremely important, and I am so glad we are finally getting this student voice back. Thank you very much. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to say the exact same thing. So thank you, Molly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just want to make sure that a letter is sent on behalf of the school committee to Mr. Hoff and family for their, at this time, thanking them for the incredibly generous donation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I just want to mention that I'm grateful that Assistant Superintendent Christine Patterson put in the grant for this, because this is money that certainly can be used and will be very practical. So my thanks to her, and I'm glad we're going to be able to go forward with upgrading some of our equipment. Very good.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I want to say my colleagues have done a wonderful job of covering the basis. I want to go a little bit further, though. Erwin, with yours, I would like to make a motion that we receive a financial report about the after school program. Specifically, I want to know what income comes out, what our expenses are. I want to know what staff are paid. I want it to be as thorough and clear so that the committee really understands what we're doing. In the past, I believe that some of the money that we took in was used for other expenses in the district. I think we need to take a look at that. I'm concerned because obviously staffing is an issue. And we mentioned the high school rate. And, you know, I totally understand. You said you have $14 for an assistant group leader. Well, you know, anybody can go to Whole Foods now and start at $15. And this is not a position which comes with benefits. And so it may be a position that even though we may be competitive with other after school programs, the fact of the matter is that if maybe we have to be better than competitive, maybe we have to be the best. My little grandson goes to after school care in another state. And when I worried about availability and asked my daughter, are you going to get in? Is he going to get it? She said, Mom, every parent is guaranteed. to have after-school care. And that's where we need to be. It shouldn't be an issue. It should be every parent. And at the same time, we need our staff. And, you know, my experience and my past with some after-school is it can be pretty tough. And I was impressed. Like my colleague Kathy, I went to go visit the after-school program, and I was amazed at how calmly and efficiently and caringly it was run. And I was really proud. to see how wonderful our staff members were. But I'm concerned if they're stretched, if all of a sudden they have to cover two classrooms if they have to cover more because someone's out sick or someone has left. One of the questions we have to raise is we don't need to want to be going every single year to start out at the beginning of the year being understaffed. So is there incentives that we can put in to keep people with us so that it's not just, you know, a short-term job but in fact something that people will commit themselves to? You know, you pay different money. At the hospital, there are certain jobs where when you're on the more difficult shifts, you get more money. If you're not getting benefits for a shift for a job like this, then I think you need to factor that in into the hourly pay raise. And I think the time has come that we really need to look at the finances to understand this. So I think I appreciate your report very much, Megan. I think this is step one. I'm asking for step two.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, like my colleague, I've thought about this, and what he just said was sort of on key, that these, this plan is really for the purposes of evaluating the superintendent. But I think many of the school committee members, and I know that as we just went through this election, many of us said, we need a strategic plan for the district. And that wasn't limited to, I mean, this is very focused. I believe that we need to take a look at the district and set a strategic plan, and maybe we should call it the school committee strategic plan as opposed to the superintendent's strategic plan, to take a look at all the factors and say, where do we want to be in three years, in five years? What is our projection? And that's a different type of strategic plan than this evaluation piece, which is obviously moving us forward and specifically geared to mathematics instruction. So I'm sure that with my colleagues we'll be doing that and we should be talking about what type of meetings we want to set up. I don't think that those kind of discussions work within a regular school committee meeting. I think it would be more important to take a look at a different venue and to really lay out some time and see what the vision is. So I'll certainly, and I know that many other of my colleagues we're thinking that way as well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, no, no. So I wanted to, we had a legal matter today. And I thought that we would be going into an executive session, but.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi. I noticed that quite a number of people have been brought on after the start of school. So, for example, let's just use the paraprofessionals that have been brought on, say, in October. There's one October 8th, one October 15th. The second one, et cetera. So at the beginning of the school, we have many new employee induction programs. people are hired and have a later arrival. How are we making sure that they are up to date on all of the information they need to or would have gotten had they been hired in an earlier time?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we have some sort of check-off list to make sure, for example, that everybody is aware of our emergency plans?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, I think we need to follow that through at some point, so thank you for that information. The second question is, I noticed cheerfully that we have hired quite a few people in the after-school program, and I would like to ask for a update on the after-school program at a meeting in the near future. Thirdly, one last, I understand we have a teacher out, a science teacher out and at, oh I think it's the Andrews 8th grade. and parents were concerned about who was going to replace the teacher. And Dr. Maurice, you and I corresponded about this, saying that right now it was a certified teacher, but not certified in science. So the question is, is are we seeking a certified science teacher to replace that, because I think that there is concern, especially given that the students had a teacher, the same group of students had a teacher out last year. So that's two years in a row that they would be having a non, or I don't know who took the place last year, but I do know right now that we have a person in there who may be terrific, I don't know, but is not certified in science.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Could you provide us with an update on that? And also again, because of the concern, I would like to ask that, you know, the the new teacher be monitored carefully just to make sure that he or she is doing whatever they're supposed to be doing. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A couple of things. I think, just as a comment, I think that my initial reading of this was I was almost a little disappointed, and people have touched on this, that we weren't doing the DIBLS 8 at one of our schools. Because just from a kind of common sense place of where we're sitting is, oh, that means that we're testing different assessment tools. and getting an idea of how they work. However, I did read carefully your sentence that you put in here about saying that you guys have truly looked at both of them and saw them to be comparable. So, but that's, you know, it's kind of almost a common sense that my initial reaction was saying, oh wait, they're not doing DIBLS-8? Well, I thought we should be because we should be looking at all of them. The next thing is we were passing around the colored places, pieces. Okay, so I wanted to know what you do for a child who's colorblind. Do you first assess whether they're colorblind?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and with those, the students, the idea is how fast the students can read those?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. And a student who's coming in who has been speaking a different language?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Okay, great. And my last comment really is, and this really comes from speaking to my own daughter recently, recently, and the whole question of dyslexic, and she is dyslexic and was not identified until really till older in high school. But she said to me, well, mom, of course we should have known because I was always in the low reading group. and made clear the pain of being stigmatized in the low reading group. And here we're talking a lot about taking students and determining what they know can do and not, but it also opens up and raises the concern of saying that those kids then are grouped together as the poor readers. And I just, I don't know how we're doing that today, but Nicole.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just one last, because you brought it up. So one of the interesting things about my daughter, she can read on a computer screen much, much easier than she can read on a page. So how do we differentiate when we're giving a computer test for those kids for her who might struggle with the written page?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. The increase, say, between the last year and this new year one, do you know what that is approximately? It's roughly 4%.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: To my colleague, it would make more sense for you to make the motion that prior to the next implementation or prior to the next time contract that we do a study. Because to do it in December, well now, then another two and three quarter years are going to pass. So the information will be current, but if you make the motion that prior to the next time we go out to renew the contract, we do that cost analysis between in-house and out-house or outside, that would make much more sense. So if I could ask you to reword it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. The other thing I just want to remind my colleague is that, while I understand that it sounds great to say, well, we want to give Medford people jobs, this company may be employing Medford people. I don't know who the employees are. I do know that there were multiple employees who have already worked for the company. And so to just, you know, While it may sound great, that statement may sound great, I think it's superficial because the fact of the matter is that there are probably people, I know that we have gotten good feedback on the employees, and I'd hate to just put them out of work because we had some other thought of, oh, Medford people. Well, maybe they are Medford people. It's a little more complex than that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is a motion for approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I did attend the meeting because I was the one who had sent it from the floor. And originally, we had sent it to a committee of the whole. And then on request, we sent it to the Policy Subcommittee, but I'm not a member, so I wanted to attend, so I did. The other thing that I think was clear from the meeting was that many of the policies that we have posted on the website as Benford Public Schools need to be reviewed and updated. That at this time that they were over time, since we originally did it and we worked very, very hard to have it done originally, but it was not updated periodically as we changed policies. So I don't know exactly when we're gonna get to that, but I believe that it's probably your committee, Kathy, that wants to do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We have been meeting. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I know how time consuming it is, because I was part of the original putting them together. However, as they're updated, they should be brought to the school committee for their review. We have been.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I understand. Yeah, exactly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I didn't understand that your plan was to review every policy. And that's what I'm suggesting that we do. So clearly, we're on the same page. Thank you. Yes, but one at a time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Thank you. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I, too, just wanted to add my thanks to both of you, and I particularly appreciated, as I read the part about sort of revamping the DARE education to now fit within the Michigan model. That includes vaping education as well, and I think that's something that we're all concerned about. So I was really glad to see that that was articulated in here as well. And I think it's a wonderful idea. I think that I used to run lunch bunches, and I know how valuable they can be for kids. It's a little bit relaxed. They look forward to it. And having a police officer as a friendly face in the room, I think, is a wonderful idea. So thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Superintendent, I was wondering if you could let the school committee know when the next PFLAG presentation will happen at the McGlynn. So would it be possible for us to attend? Is that something that would be OK?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And it would be OK if we attended?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to thank you, too, for your efforts. I was curious a little bit just about the parking. So it sounds like we need more parking spaces. Is that because more students are driving to school?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Which is the area for student parking?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: As I said to Joseph coming in, it's such an honor to know him. And it was. It's nothing new. We're so excited over the years watching you grow and your family. And thank you to the FARA parents as well, who have been so supportive, of course, of their kids. It's been so great. And, you know, this is one of those moments, I think, that when I live a very long and healthy life, I'm going to say, I knew him when. And it's just great. So thank you so much, Joseph.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So I thought about this a lot, and because I was disappointed that students who really would have liked to have gone to the March didn't go because they would have adversely affected their team because they're not allowed to take part in those activities. But to me, while there was a question of timing, it happened quickly. We only knew about it, or I only knew about it the day before. To me, this is a school committee policy question. And to me, I feel like the administrative people probably are doing their job. And now I have to step in and say, this is a policy question. I think we need to look at the policy. I don't think that students should be penalized for attending a climate change march. I'd love it to be an educational opportunity. I would even consider some sort of, I mean, I agree with Paul that that distinction between excused and unexcused, perhaps we need to talk about that overall because I've had parents come to me with frustration about that policy in the bigger sense. Because they say, you know, my kid was sick, but not so sick that they needed to go to the doctor. So I just put aside over to the left and say, we have a bigger question. But I do believe it's a policy. So I'd like to make a motion that the school committee meet to discuss the absentee policy, especially in regards to outside events. that students would like to participate in. I think that if we can sit down around the table and come to a better way to handle this, that this would be better for our students, and then we wouldn't be putting our administrators, you know, holding them up with annoyance. So, if I could.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to be clear that by asking to send this to the policy committee, it's not because in any way that I agree with it. I didn't agree with the choice. It's just because I'm taking the power that we have as school committee members, and that is to make and set policy. And I think that's the way that we can go about it and craft what we will agree on. I also just want to mention in all of this, the one thing that I kept on thinking about was that lovely young lady that came to us last spring, wanting to bring to our attention her frustration with the styrofoam trays. And I think now it's September, and I know we're working on it, but yet it doesn't feel like we're really concerned enough, because if we're concerned enough, then price wouldn't be a matter, and we would get reusable trays. I was at Tufts yesterday, at the Tufts Community Day, and I noticed all the plates were, they're recycled paper. And so I'm concerned that our own body isn't feeling the pressure enough, that we're gonna get to it, but we're not getting to it fast enough. And I think that it's up to us when we have a student like this, and we all agreed, we all agreed what we should do, that we should make it happen, not wait until it happens.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It may be trickier than you think because the excused and unexcused, I mean, I'm not sure that matters as much as, and I don't think we can go back and unfortunately change the fact that the real issue was they couldn't participate in their extracurriculars if they went. And that's what is at the real meat of this, is that that's what the problem was. I'm not certain. So just as I try to think about this and I may need some help from the administration here of saying we could ask students if they went to the climate change on Friday, I guess that's how we would identify who went as opposed to who was sick or who was whatever. I'm not quite sure. I think we kind of need to look at our policy. I'm not against it, Michael. I'm just not quite sure how to do it. We could, it doesn't have to be decided tonight, we could go to that policy, the policy subcommittee and we could discuss it there and it could be retroactive. Would that be okay?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I commend Kathy for volunteering to be the chair, and she may very well end up. In previous times when we did, I was on both the Building the Future 1 and Building the Future 2, and part of the much larger community group that was on it, the mayor appointed. And that is typical, in my experience on the school committee, is that the mayor appoints who's going to be on a committee. Just as we did with the superintendent search, We asked the community who was interested in it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to mention that I was up at Tufts and I saw Diane Caldwell giving out these bookmarks that had been made by our Graphic Arts Department, a nice little PR piece, and I wanted to express my appreciation to Diane for sitting in the sun, as well as I believe Lisa was there earlier, Lisa Evangelista, and also to the CCSR students who were present. It was a hot day, but very, very nice.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I just wanted to ask you about the grade implementation, because on one it says K to 2. Are we doing K to 2 students in all the schools?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And when we, is this a one-on-one?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think at some point, if it's possible, once they get a little bit of practice, I think it would be great if school committee members who are available could go and watch an implementation, see what a child is doing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Christine, I'm only mentioning this just so that in your records it doesn't cause you a problem down the line. You've got a typo on page 10 of 17, Greater Boston League. It should be G-R-E-A rather than A-E.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Tower, thank you for being here tonight. I just, I didn't catch, I heard Red Bones. That's correct. And then I didn't hear. Medford Brewing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Medford Brewing Company will be supplying the liquor? Yes. Okay. Beer.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Beer. Beer.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, well it's a liquor permit. Yeah, I know. So it's beer.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, that's great. My guess is if you're advertising that, you'll expect to get more than 300 people, so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The 27th is a Sunday?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So weather dependent on?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But you registered beforehand anyway. Oh, yeah. Is there a walkers? There is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great. Excellent. OK, thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I just wanted to comment that I agree with Erin that I was under the impression that we weren't just doing a pilot program at one elementary school, but that the will of the school committee was to be very aggressive in moving. There was some question about which would be the tool that we used, but I certainly, I wasn't thinking that we were just doing a pilot program At one school, I thought it would be that we certainly would be even if it wasn't at the beginning of the year, but it would that certainly at the very in the fall. It was my recollection that the school committee. really was very clear that we wanted an aggressive effort on this. So I'll throw that in. I'll look through my notes and see.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A parent approached me with concerns about She wondered what the kids were receiving to eat, because her child had come home and reported something that was concerning. She thought perhaps two should agree. And so we just wanted to be clear on what the breakfast program is providing to our students. I'll absolutely do that. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's a year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Just a clarification then. So each of the projects that we put in the capital plan from now on will be brought forth one by one?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we have an understanding of when that would be?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, the CPC process.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So no possible, we're not moving forward on any of the playgrounds till next spring, even though they were in year two of our plan. Do we, you know, I guess part of me thought that we're just going out to bond for money come into this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was at the Columbus School for the Welcome to Kindergarten students, and though I've been there many times looking at the playground surface, I was truly taken aback at how bad it had gotten. So I was thinking that we were going to be able to be moving on these much sooner than now. Money coming up in the spring, and we all know what that means, is the projects aren't really going to happen maybe until next summer. And frankly, I just think it's, I mean, at some point there's a question of what is the safety level of our playgrounds. It's been a good number of years that they're there now. They're not meant to last forever. They don't. And so quite honestly, I'm really disappointed that we're not moving more aggressively on this. And I understand that there's these funds. But I guess part of me feels like, well, we ought to have a plan B. We ought to be thinking of a plan B now in case we don't get funded for all of those plan grants.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. Thank you. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to follow up again. Thank you for all your work, John. One of the things that I noted in particular with the compressors, that was a big ticket item and I see a lot of them got done. So that is just great. The other thing which I noticed on this list is how much of this, you know, it's stuff that people can't see. It needs to be done, but it's not visible stuff. Correct. It's not paint and wax. And that's just, I'm making a point because it's important to realize that this is thousands and thousands and thousands of dollars, all of which needs to be done. Yes. But you can't really even see. So it's the infrastructure. So thanks again.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Conwell, do we have any students who are here for medical treatment who might be adversely affected by the federal government's move not to continue their immigration status? Not to my knowledge. OK. If there are, would you let us know only so we can advocate for them? Absolutely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But you never let me know. But if they had come to you, it was just a great concern. Thank you. You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to nominate Paul Rousseau to be our delegate at the conference.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, I would think that it seems to me that there is a leap of faith here, to some extent, by going with this. Because we have the statistics between two of our schools, and someone answered about a bus being late. Well, I'm sure hoping that the principal who's meeting that bus that is late is the caring individual who we know that they are and who will usher that it's not a, you know, all of a sudden breakfast is going to close and the door is closed and there's no chance. When I was a guidance Councilor over in Everett, there was a child who consistently came late to school and we knew had no food. And I want to tell you, we always managed to get that child food by going down to the kitchen, by getting help, and we had no breakfast program at that time set up for that. But there are caring individuals in our buildings. I am sure that there are other people in our buildings who want to make this work. And I'm betting on that. So I'm going to bet on that and vote for approval of this. And then see, we might have kinks. We might have to work it out. We might have to revisit. But I'm at least willing to try it. So that's where I'll come down tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke, well I'll speak to this for just a moment. It's indeed wonderful to see how well Superintendent Maurice-Edouard Vincent has done this year. The fact that she got unanimous support and that we all recognize that this has been a very strong first year for her and she's got such potential for growing from where she's at. It's truly been a great year to be able to work with her and be able to, for all of us to recognize this tonight. Very good. Is there a motion on the floor? For approval? Yes. We have something we have to do before the end, just with the budget?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Christine's very concerned, so that's why I wanted to make sure. Right, we haven't approved the budget yet.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, by the way, I love these trips for students in these opportunities I do also one of the things that the school committee worried about previously Is that the list would be given to the school nurse to find out whether there is any special?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, great. Thank you very much. I second it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much for your report. I just wanted to underline, I think, that this real accomplishment this year, and it certainly was so great to hear about, was the universal design for emergency preparedness. A real kudos for the CPAC. So thanks so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kathy, Erin said it very well, so I don't want to take a lot of time, but I really want to thank you for all of your service to us. You've done a magnificent job working in a sometimes very difficult area. You've kept the needs of the kids in the forefront, and I really appreciate having you here, and we wish you every good thing in your retirement.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Yes, Superintendent. We also received in our packet while we're on the topic of assessments, a follow-up report on the universal dyslexic screening cost analysis, and that is not on our agenda specifically, although it certainly is an assessment. I wasn't thinking that tonight we would be debating which one we're going to do, but I'm assuming, and I just want you to confirm this, that our professionals will be looking at this and will be making a choice and will be part it will be budgeted for in our upcoming school year budget? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you very much. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would just like to add she also was my children's teacher and she went on and was a school committee member in her community. Peggy was a great person and it's a great loss.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So thank you so much for your presentation, Jennifer, Zane, and Lila. I want to tell you that this is actually not the first time it's come before the committee. It came many years ago, I'm guessing 10, 15, and at the time we actually had trays but used Styrofoam plates. And at that point in time we did a cost analysis and it was determined that it was too expensive. Well, now lots of years have passed and I am so happy you're bringing this to us again because it's not too expensive to save our earth. And I really appreciate you speaking up on this issue. I think we're going to need to ask for that we do a study in terms of what the cost of, what our options are. It may be an option to go back to reusable trays and water, but that, of course, also means expenditures using water. So there's many factors that we have to look at. But we're at a prime place now. We appreciate the work of our very young activists. There's nothing that can bring it home like seeing that stack of trays and then understanding how that adds up over the course of a year. So thank you again for your presentation. I'll make a motion that we send this question to committee and that we do a study and we report back by the end of the year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, Ms. Cheng and students, And Mr. Zigny, a lot of people ask me a lot of the time why I want to be on the school committee. And I say to them, you know, it can be really rewarding. And they look at me. But I want to tell you, it's really rewarding. Thank you so very, very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I failed to mention one other group that we want to express our appreciation and we didn't say thank you to the parents because the parents make sure that their kids are brought and picked up and from all the rehearsals and you know they're listening probably to the same piece of music many times sometimes and you know when you start in fourth grade it's a little rough at the beginning but my it's it's so worth it and thank you so very much for supporting your children in this endeavor, obviously it's so well worth it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. So first I want to thank the parents for being here this evening, and I also want to thank them for all the work and time they've invested into their schools. Overall, I edited up, it was $143,000 worth of different activities, events, books, Chromebooks, things that were funded. by the PTOs or PTJ for their students and their schools. So it's truly fantastic. I'm going to mention the transportation issue. The field trips are part of our negotiations with the bus company, which happens every three years. And it is disheartening because that number always just goes up. It's one of the reasons why In some cases, it's better if an outside resource can come into your school rather than you busing the kids out. But we all know, of course, that it's really great to give kids different perspectives and bus them out. So that one, we'll look again when we talk about our transportation. Again, I think we've got one more year. Is that right? Yeah, we have one more year. So that contract will come up in the next year. If you do have a problem, and I trust that anybody who did would immediately report it, because I'm disheartened to hear about the issue like with Smolluck Farms, but that should immediately be brought to the attention of Christine Patterson, who will then follow it up for you. So again, thank you so much for all of your work. I do see some equity issues that were raised, and I think we need to talk about them a little bit more in terms of the number of Chromebooks that the district has supplied versus the PTO has bought. Because in some ways that seems like, gee, I think that's a district responsibility. There is one thing I am thrilled, thrilled, thrilled that the elementary schools are working together and that you've formed this alliance. However, as the former head of the Medford Home and School Association, which lasted four years, and I'm a little concerned about the exclusivity only to elementary schools. years go on quickly. And I fear that by just containing it to just the elementary schools, that you're really writing off some of the most involved parents that have been part of you. And you might not think about it right now because maybe your child's only in third grade, but before you know it, they're going to be in sixth grade. Why would you seek to exclude those parents who are very active or who might be very active or who have been very active. Rather than limit it, I would prefer to see it grow. And I realize that for the different projects there might be different ways that maybe it's not equitable for the middle schools if they're part of it to receive as high an amount of money. But maybe on some other projects, they would be equal partners. I really think you need to give that some consideration and take a look at that. I know it's probably a lengthy discussion. We can't do it all here. But I'm throwing out my two cents and saying, please don't limit. Please increase, become more inclusive, not less. It's a wonderful, wonderful resource. You have people talking to each other, which is just so great. You know, schools finding out which things worked at your school, which doesn't. And again, the combined resources, that Disney project alone, what a great, great thing. So those are my two cents, and I hope to talk to you more about that at some other time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No. Congratulations, Joan. We're very, very happy to have you move into the position. We're sad to lose Kathy, but we're delighted to have you. Do you want to say a few words? I just want to say thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. So, do students who would normally pay for their breakfast or lunch, would they be paying for their breakfast and lunch?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So how do we pay for that breakfast?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And will the federal reimbursements cover all of our costs?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So what's the downside?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I think that it would be appropriate. I mean, obviously, this sounds like it's great, but I think that it makes sense for you to sit down with our administrative people, one of whom, Christine, is standing behind you, unless you want to give us a recommendation right now or... We said it would be short, that's my only concern here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It sounds great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'm sort of caught here because I think that it's so clear, the message that this committee is sending is clear. The members of the Medford School Committee are committed to providing our students free to adopting provision 2, so to enable our students, the possibility of, all of our students, the possibility of free breakfast. I'm reluctant to vote on it without having a report back. I think that's a courtesy to our administration. I hear from Sarah that they wanted to report to us tonight. I think that we could make the resolution, if my colleague was willing to withdraw his, to say that the members of the Medford School Committee are committed to providing our students with nutritious breakfast options. And to that end, they want to support uh, project, uh, sorry, provision two, uh, breakfast model, um, uh, that we, and further that we are asking, uh, for a, a follow-up from administration at the meeting of June 17th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I know. I said June 17th, that meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What is the incentive for students to participate?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: confirmed to be abstinent. I read it by urine test.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so month one, abstinent. Month two, abstinent. Month three, failed the urine test. What happens? No payment?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So the incentive for a child... So what if a child has used marijuana once? So it was a one-time thing?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It sounds like there's a fair amount of interaction with the students who participate. Right. So when are they doing that interaction?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: For the purposes of this study, can we say, yes, we're interested in having our students participate, but we want to limit it to 9th to 12th grade? so we don't necessarily have to include the younger kids?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. I'm just wondering in terms of, say, rolling it out, whether you might start at one age group and then, you know, say, this is how it worked or something like that. Can I just ask for this evening, what is... I don't think we're at the point of final approval. It seems like there's a lot of details that need to be worked out. So, Superintendent, could you give us an idea what you would suggest would be the way to move forward?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So the first question is in terms of the two-day PD, are there two days in June scheduled for PD that are available, and this would be all middle school math teachers?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, what will the other teachers be doing for PD during that time?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So, boy, I mean, that's just a lot of organization that needs to be done very quickly. Yes, it is. Yes. Now, I recall when we discussed this, one of the things that I had thought as I was concerned with the issues is that we should buy some sets of classroom editions. And I see the cost for books, one classroom set of student edition per teacher, and one teacher edition is $12,962. And that would be multiplied by what?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So just to continue, the student editions are paperback, is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I did not receive your letter, probably because you sent it to the school, and it never forwards to me. Pvanderkloot at gmail.com. Works every time. So look, if we do the extensive PD, and we talked about the need for PD, it's $15,350. 12,962 buys us one set. Now, it seems to me that there's huge arguments in favor of doing a comprehensive middle school program. We hear Ms. Irving's concerns and we respect her very much from years, if not decades, working together. Oh, okay, I didn't even read it. So the question is, one of the things that we haven't really quite understood overall is where we are in the comprehensive budget final number, because ultimately this comes down to a budget number. So one set of books and a teacher's edition comes to $12,962, but we're saying maybe we want more than a teacher to have more than one set. So let's say we were willing to, if we had the money and we wanted to put, we're saying, look, this is so important, we're going to spend $75,000 on it this year. How many books does that get us? Do we have that money in our, is that possible for us? What is the limit? Because I don't think we've answered that question yet. I don't know in our budget where we are. it becomes very difficult. I personally believe that we should go forward, okay, but we should go forward with the maximum amount of professional development, that we should go forward with the maximum amount of resources for students that we can afford. Okay. And, you know, that we don't want to set people up for failure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to make a motion to suspend the usual order of business so we can take up item number four, recognition of student achievements, humanities awards, today.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would also like to thank the parent. I want to tell you that I wish that many years ago when my youngest, I didn't realize, we didn't know until much later that she was dyslexic, and it's actually impacted her whole life. With that being said, I think it would make sense for us to again suspend the order of business and go directly to the reports on dyslexia since we've now gotten into the topic.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ms. Van der Kloot. Yes. I just was curious whether there is any indication that for preschoolers, I mean, is this something that can be seen even earlier for a parent? Are there particular sort of warning signs?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The other question is the parent who came before us noted that her student had in fact been given some remediation. How do we figure out what's the best way to help a student? We'll go with the model that the student has been screened early. What is the approach that we're going to best meet the needs of a student who falls into that category?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Who do you think is doing a particularly good job, if we think about districts you've worked with?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: First, I also would like to give a shout out to Nicole Chin. Nicole was the CCSR student who really organized that dinner on Friday night, and she and her devoted parents did such a wonderful job pulling that event together, and I think everybody had a great time. And it was great to celebrate the students as well as to see those senior students who received $500 scholarships. So it was a great, great night. I'd like to go back to the beginning where you talked about the middle school lottery, Superintendent, if I could. Yes. So I sort of have two different sort of series of questions. I think it's important to look back at the process and say what worked well, what didn't. And so in reflecting on that, I was curious how much the outside CPA firm cost and whether it was worth it. And if we were to do it again, whether we would need an outside firm?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Was it worth it? If we did it again, would we need it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I absolutely understand that. I just wanted to know, and it was important to create a baseline of making sure that it was transparent and clear and whatever. But of course, having said that, I'm sure others have received, too, discussion from parents still asking, is there another way? And I think that it's important now. I know that in the time that you came in, and did a quick evaluation and say, this year this is the best way to do it, that we didn't really afford the timetable. But I think it's important now to take a step back and to say, is there another way? Does it make sense for all the 6th graders to be in one place and divide up the 7th or 8th grade class so that they all know each other?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I always feel the urge, though, as we discuss this, and I very much would like to see that feasibility study, and that's the reason why I'm bringing it up tonight. And it doesn't sound like I need to make a motion because it seems like it's clearly part your direction, but of course I want the school committee member to be very much involved with the discussion. But I do, I always think that just from a historical perspective, it's very important that the community realize that the reason why we built the two schools in the way that we did was that because it enabled us to get 90% funding from the state. And so the cost of our buildings, these magnificent buildings, was a very small cost. And as I always have listened to other districts and heard when someone came and talked to me today about what's going on in their district, And I said, well, how much is the state going to be able to contribute? And it was opposite. It was like 10%, you know. And that is why we ended up with the K to 8 in one building in the middle school, 6th, 7th, and 8th. But now many years have passed, and it's time to take a look at it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It was a team. But did you get up and dance?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to accept.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second. OK. Call it, Kathy. Oh, OK. All in favor. No, you have to do it, it's money. Oh, okay, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Correct.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. Thank you. Ms. Vendicott. So, I feel like I'm a little confused because I think we're mixing a lot of different things in that there's different issues here. Paul, you're raising the question of the calendar scheduling. I think that the tie-in was where is the money going? But we have received reports from Christine. We did look at it. It was somewhere, I don't remember, back at some point or another, maybe it was a year ago, where we looked at it and we saw, and at that time no one had any questions about it. It was all detailed. So maybe, you know, again, we should look at what date we did that and we should do it again on a yearly basis. And in fact, I think that the motion at the time was that we would be doing it at a yearly basis. So that's sort of in one pot. The report that we got today was on student activity accounts, which is different, but maybe we want them side to side with the friends of, so that we can say, gee, it's interesting, girls basketball, and I'm just picking one up. out of the blue with, you know, has both a student activity account and it has this. It also is a friends of. It's because I think that's, Erin, what you're talking about is sort of saying, gee, there are some things that aren't listed here, which I thought they would come up with a student activity. No, a student activity account is different than what we talked about earlier. So I just, I need to make some lines. I think we, you know, when you throw it all into the same motion, it doesn't make any sense. Right. So, having said that, it's... Okay. Can I think about it? I don't want to do it right now. So let's...
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: To my colleague, I think it would make sense if we reviewed that in October as a group. I don't think we need to make a motion right at this point. That would be my suggestion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Resolutions? Oh, excuse me.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to adjourn? To executive session? Second. Yes. Do we have to vote for that, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we have a couple of different talks. The one I mentioned, we did receive, or we're going to receive, a little while before about that should be included in this capital plan because it was a piece of information we didn't know. I think we can probably go ahead with the approval of the work of the committee of the whole now, but perhaps, you know, I'm still thinking about it. Can we add that to the plan? If I end a meeting, you could... I think that while it was important to Though, we are far from done. My colleague Mr. Ruggiero asked for, and I don't see it noted here, but there was also an ask for a report on things like how many compressors we have. water heaters, just so that we had a list. And when we started out, and it was four years ago, or three and a half in November, we really had gone through the schools and put together a comprehensive list, which I understand that Christine had told us that we are, you know, we've been hitting items on that list. But at the very end of the meeting, we talked about, we had a conversation that wandered into saying, you know, there's still a lot of people in our community who have grave concerns about the high school. There's this question about what's functional and what's aesthetically pleasing. Many of us have long been concerned, just like City Hall down in Boston has the same type of architecture that our high school does. Is there anything that we can do? We've actually never looked into Is there a paint that works? I did comment that there is a building over in Arlington that used to look very much like our high school did. It's the DSS building. And they've made it look from externally, I'm talking externally, much, much better. Again, the external factors for me, landscaping and making it look nicer that way, I think we actually need to do more exploration. We had some discussions, some thoughts went out at that meeting. I know that there's concern about having another subcommittee, because my initial desire would be saying, I think we need a working subcommittee of really members who are willing to do a little bit of, during, and I would suggest that we do it during the summer, doing some more research into some of these other questions around the high school. I'm not putting together a motion right now because I want to talk to members to say, how should we do this? How do we go forth? But we have to discuss these issues more thoroughly. and take a look at those concerns. I walked through the high school again, and you know, my biggest, you think about what is functional. But I'm thinking about being functional as a school committee member and being what is my first impression. And you do get kind of blind to what someone's first impression would be. And there's certainly issues. So I'm just going to put it on the table now to say to my Colleagues, I think we only just began in that discussion. It's not the first go-round. I can assure you of that. Those discussions have been had comprehensively across the city about creating lists. But it is time that we look again so that we feel when we're looking at more capital improvements in the future, we will be going back to information that we've gathered at this time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I've had a discussion with the superintendent about the concerns about creating another subcommittee We have building and grounds so I think that that would probably be the place Place for us to to go to with this, but I think that if we could I don't know if we could look at it. You know for me having, because we don't have a lot of other events and meetings during the summer, the summer would be a good time to spend some time. So if there were, if there was the will, that's what I think we should do. So I'm going to send the topic, if I make a motion to send the topic to Buildings and Grounds Subcommittee, we'll do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would like to support this and make a motion to approve the change of language so that our language department would now be called world language. that this was the right thing to go. And I'm also very excited that you brought this forward to us and said, hey, we should do this. This makes sense. Again, sometimes we're just thinking this way, and then someone else comes in new and goes, oh, yeah, right. And this was one of those. So thank you very much. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So my concern is once we have an opinion like this, which clearly specifies, you know, the new four-inch power spring system is far superior upgrading the spring floor system will be a night and day difference. I'm so reminded of the young woman I once met who was a high school gymnast and she was practically had suffered many injuries. So when I, I'm very concerned about the potential for injuries here. And I know we can say that forever, but we've now got the report here. So I'd like to see this was not in our Thinking when we did the capital plan, we just talked about a capital plan. We talked about the potential of available money from the city. If there were to be money, I think that we should either look for it to be in this current year, if there's any left over at the end of the year, once the books are settled, or be placed into year two. I'm thinking, again, I'm no expert in this. but I'm always concerned about the potential of injuries, and clearly there is any number of students or groups of students who use this, and so I'm concerned. So my motion is to look to see whether we can place this in the capital plan for either year one, and if not year one, then year two.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: To include it in the capital plan, either year one, or year two.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kreatz. So it could be replaced prior to the fall competition.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We can put it into our regular budget.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. First, thank you, Dr. Maurice Vincent, for the comprehensive report. I know how warmly the students have taken to you, and it's really great to see you with the students and with the staff out in the field, so to speak. There's clearly so many different things in here. One of the things I did want to ask is that you mentioned that one of your key work underway is the launching of a district safety team to examine external reports and streamline safety policies, et cetera. I would ask that the school committee, before the end of the school year, receive, and probably we need to do this because of sensitivity to security issues, that we would receive a more comprehensive report from this team. But anyway, other than that, thank you very much for bringing us this report tonight, and I look forward to our future work together.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Jasper.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. If you could remind me, Mr. Fallon, for the expenses for the students to travel to the next competition, how are we covering those?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, you know, we've had other students come before us, and my personal feeling is that these students are bringing the pride of Medford with them. So I would like to see, again, if we could look towards a budget or perhaps, again, every so often the mayor's been able to come up with somebody who can cover the costs. I really believe that we should be building in some costs, that this automatically, we now have participation in DECA and it would seem that we should build in a budget line item to cover costs for this because we are optimistic about the success of our students, whether it be in this or the ethics team, and even before we talked about Albert's success. So I would make that as a recommendation in general now, but as we talk about in our budget meetings, I'm going to come back to that. So again, if we could look for funding, I'll put the request in that way. I know that you are successful, have been successful doing some fundraising, and I think that's wonderful. We certainly appreciate that, but I'd also like to see the rest of the cost covered if at all possible.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van Kloot. Fallon, I just want to ask you, what space the new salon is going to be in?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, and certainly in terms of access from the outside in the bistro, it makes a lot of sense.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great, thank you very much. You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I didn't have a question. I just appreciate the information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for this report. On page 5, one of the things I noticed, and you sort of did a side throwaway comment, was that, in fact, at the grade 4 level and grade 5, there really seems to be some struggle with fractions. Yes. And you said, and I noticed this as a high school teacher. So part of that is, and I do see some of your action items do include remedial help. But, you know, it seems like that this is something that we might need to work into some regular classrooms just to make sure that our students really are getting it. So apart from the remedial MCAS sessions, is there possibility to bring this into the regular math classrooms?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you. The follow-up then also was on page 10. For your future items, I see you wrote, adopt an inquiry-based mathematics program that will increase higher-level thinking for a more successful mathematics experience at the high school. Yes. That seems to be a very important piece. I'm wondering whether you're thinking that adoption would take place. We haven't talked about it yet, so I'm not thinking you're suggesting this coming year, or are you?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. And is that something you're going to be bringing to us during budget time? Yes. Good. Yes. Yes. Okay. We have yet to get this. Okay. So good. But we'll be on the lookout for it. Yes. That's why I want to bring it up. Thank you. Yes. Okay. Lastly, I just wanted to mention that this Saturday I was driving in my car and I was listening to NPR and there was a TED Talk on. And the TED Talk was on teaching mathematics. And the particular part that I happened to be listening to was the importance of struggle. Well, because I had the opportunity to go with the superintendent to do one of the walkthroughs in math, and that was one of the criteria that we looked at and that I saw and understood. I just thought that it was just a great thing then to be sitting and listening to the TED Talk about how we should be teaching math. So I just wanted to mention that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van de Kloop. Rocco, thank you for your report. I am a little bit concerned and I just hope that the requests that members have made are not going to tie you up for hours and hours and hours to generate additional data. Is that a problem?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So sometimes I think that there's a problem wanting additional data, but also wanting to make sure that we're not tying up our professionals for doing the work that they need to do. So I'm a little concerned about that. But mostly exciting in your report was the suggestion that there was a middle school program that would build on what we have just adopted with the Amplify Science. So I look forward to hearing that. Is that possibly? Could that be tried out next year? Is that what you were suggesting?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So would that happen by the beginning of next September?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just think it's exciting. We can build on the momentum we have. And so thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have a question about the funding. The last time when the students went to the Ethics Bowl, we were able, if I recall, to get a contributor to cover the costs of the student's trip. And so at this point, I would like to ask the mayor on behalf of the school committee if you could see if we could get a donor to cover the cost, as you've been successful in the past.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Russo? I just wanted to see, and maybe I've missed it, but I see the mention of an improved cafeteria, but what about the library?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But under number seven, the cafeteria is part?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess I'm reflecting back a couple of years when we submitted but unfortunately were not chosen for renovation of the whole library area and that that's not a piece of either this or the funds we spoke about earlier this evening in subcommittee. I think that there were other Other parts, I don't recall them off of hand, but they were very detailed at the time. And so I was surprised not to see it as a piece of this. And I'd sort of like to look back at some of the plans at that time to see where we are, because not to even be considering it at this point would seem unfortunate. But in terms of what is acceptable, then I would make a motion for approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I am the chair.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Paulette? Mayor Burke? Just the one thing to keep in mind, the question is at some point we may not be able to accommodate every member's particular, as much as we want to. Ms. Patterson is available on Mondays and Thursdays. Um, so that, that's the first limitation that we have. Um, you know, the, to me, it's important, it, um, that as many members as can possibly make whatever subcommittee, uh, meeting, make them because, you know, we want our full representation. Um, the advantage of putting it in the subcommittee is that, uh, we won't need a quorum if we can't get it, um, you know, or it's a smaller quorum. But for me, personally, I believe that it's, um, important for every committee member who can possibly make these committee to please do so. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So, in and of itself, apart from the fact that I happen to be the head of the committee, I personally need, you need to understand, I'm also happening to have a committee of the whole. The only question becomes the scheduling, and the scheduling is tough. What if you say you can't do Thursdays or, you know, majority of the committee, I mean, are we How do we handle the scheduling? Already with these dates, people have said, I can't do that one, I can't do that one. So that becomes the difficult part, is just a pure nuts and bolts, how do we schedule? It's a lot of meetings.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll yield to my colleague.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. Ms. Vanden Heuvel. So the first question I have is the first proposed date is March 14th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, so for me, I've got to be pragmatic at this. I understand that there's been thinking that it might be easier if it were a smaller group. At the same time, I listen to my colleagues, and I know that if I wasn't on the subcommittee, I'd be arguing the way that they were, and that's a problem for me. You know, part of me sort of says, hey, wait a second. We've got the first meeting. It's very nicely organized here. The first meeting is proposed for March 14th. I didn't hear other concerns about that particular date. Why don't we see how it goes as a committee of the whole? Let's try the committee of the whole. If it seems unwieldy after that date, we'll reconsider. But I can't, you know. I want to support you, but at the same time, I sort of feel like if I was not on the committee, I would be arguing just the way my colleagues who are opposed to it are.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I didn't, if I may Mayor Burke, I didn't understand why the first meeting March 14th, which is a week from tomorrow, was you said maybe it won't work. Why wouldn't it work date-wise?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If I made a motion that we had a committee of the whole meeting next week to, on March 14th, to discuss the items listed, guidance, English language cards, social studies, that can't happen at this point? where you're uncertain.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I make a motion to suspend the rules in order to take up item number 7 under community participation, the Jingle Bell Road Race funds distribution, as well as items number 2, 3, 4, and 5 under the report of the superintendent Roman numeral 8.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Congratulations.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Judy, you are such an inspiration to our community. And you and all of your team, Rosemary, all the team, thank you so very much. My colleague said it perfectly, so I'll just add my thanks from the bottom of my heart.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to say that the members received your stories and we had a great time reading them. Especially things that made me feel a little creepy was things like green-fleshed army and you have been dead for years. So a great job kids.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Nice job, Arden. I love watching you play.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: While we're under suspension, I wish to bring information to the committee. I was approached by Kirsten Patterson to discuss the potential of doing in-depth budget review this year in a slightly different way. We've normally had quick proposals that presentations that have come at the school committee. She suggested that we might do better to send it to a subcommittee to go for a very thorough, transparent look at the budget. I just wanted to ask Christine if she could come forward. She suggested that it would come to the, that we would set up the meetings through the personnel subcommittee since 80% or so of the budget is personnel. I'm the head of personnel, so I just want to make it clear that for me it would be always important that every member realizes that this would be a meeting that they are welcome and encouraged to attend. We debated back and forth what we do with the Committee of the Whole. That puts an obligation on the whole committee. It's difficult. There will be expected to be quite a number of meetings. And what's really important is that we always have a certain number of members present to review. So, Christine, could you speak to the proposal? Yes, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. So as the superintendent mentioned, I was talking to her and asked if I could attend when she mentioned this. And I really felt that it was a wonderful opportunity to understand because I didn't, quite honestly, I really didn't understand what the superintendent was getting at when she was saying learning walks. You know, you spent 15 minutes in each class. I'm thinking, what are you going to find out in 15 minutes and whatever? So it was really terrific to be able to go. And as I watched this video, I'm sure that I saw things because I was able to participate. For instance, watching a student and understanding that concept of productive struggle was really great to see happening in our classroom, to understand why we want to encourage our teachers, to continue to have that grow in our classrooms. And again, if you have the opportunity in the next go-around, I highly would encourage my committee members to go and I'm quite thankful I was at the right place at the right time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vandekloot, you're all set. First, Superintendent, I really appreciate your fair and equitable approach to this dilemma that we've had. However, I do believe that it certainly is going to still cause some consternation. One specific question, just to start. In the past, the McGlynn Elementary students really had a, if they wanted to stay at the McGlynn, they did. Now it appears that this group of students, half of them would be going to the Andrew School. Is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Now, one of the questions we've had in the past had to do with the sibling preference, and I just want to be very clear as we roll this out that the sibling preference of people, and there was a past policy and discussion that happened, and it was around the fact that Parents argued that they had been guaranteed sibling preference for the year after their students. So a child perhaps was going up to the high school and going into 9th grade, but another child was coming in at the 6th grade level. And the reason behind it was that they had spent all that time contributing and building the school, and the parents had relationships which they wanted to continue. because of their support of the school. I just want to be clear that as we roll this out, that's one of the things that has arisen in the past that we need to be clear on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I absolutely understand where you're going, but I just wanted to be clear.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And in fact, there was a letter and the parents were able to substantiate it. you know, policy can change. We just need to be very clear about it. The other thing I guess is I'm curious about how you're going to roll this out now after our, I would assume we'll vote on it, but after our approval, how will you sell this to the community?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think, I mean, I believe that too. I think that the other concern that will arise will be the friendship groups. My child's over here at this school and all the friends are going over to the other school. And to that means, I think that it's really, really important that we do a very concerted effort of understanding, especially now that it's very clear that we're going to have these new mixed groups of students, that we foster activities and create opportunities for kids to get to know new children, and we make that very much part of our goal as we enter this new phase.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So earlier tonight, we in subcommittee talked about sort of the guiding principles of the Medford School Committee. And what really we said was that we were here for all students and to make sure that their educational opportunities were the best for them. And if I go back to that guiding principle and I look at what the superintendent just presented to us, I see that there may be some short-term pain. The long-term gain of making an equitable middle school environment is where we need to go for the benefit of all students. I appreciate that my colleague Mr. Ruggiero might like some more time to digest it and to talk a little bit about rollout. On the other hand, I am pulled because I would also like to affirm the policy and say that we should move forward and then have a subcommittee meeting to talk about what kind of presentations we're going to have. So I would like to, and I'm just trying to figure out the right rules of order to do this,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: His would come first. Can I change yours?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. To my colleague, Mr. Rousseau, I think that there's some pragmatic questions. We started this year with a new superintendent, and she certainly needed some time to get on board and to learn the ropes and learn all the people and start with an instructional initiative with the math, which we saw earlier. If there was clearly a simple answer other than this in terms of the size or whatever, I think she would have presented it tonight or suggested it. The in-depth that you speak of I think is probably worthwhile doing for the whole committee and community to really understand. But I think that there's a question that is before us in the immediate, and that is next year. And I don't think it's realistic to have had the superintendent come back and try and figure out all of those in-depth questions. I think that we need to set that as a goal. Yeah? Mr. Russo, point of information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I agree with you. I'm just trying to figure out the timeline, the pragmatic point of all of this, is trying to say. And maybe we certainly want to, as we're doing this, we certainly want to be looking at that questions in terms of either our special education or our EL students. Is there a way to better incorporate them into the schools? and equal opportunities. I think that the question before us right at the moment is, I hear that there is a general feeling amongst members that this is the right thing to do, that the superintendent has come to us and she's shown us numbers, numbers speak. We've talked about equity. We've talked about doing the right thing for all students. I hear that we actually have some level of consensus in terms of what we need to do. What I don't hear consensus on yet is whether we're going to approve the policy tonight and then have a subcommittee, or as the motion states, first have a subcommittee meeting and then approve the policy. Mr. Ruggiero.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So next week is vacation week.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I make a motion to approve the policy change and follow it up with the committee of the whole meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I'd like that to be a separate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I make a motion to accept the superintendent's recommendation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. So included in our packet was the determination of need for an individual emergency response plan and procedures. Is this ready now for a motion for adoption? Are you putting it forward to us now
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great. I have to say, I was so impressed when I read through this. And again, I had a Gen Ed kid who was absolutely incredibly scared of fire drills, and this would have been very appropriate for her. But especially on the back page, listing all the medical needs, the tools, the accommodations, physical needs, tools, accommodations. communication memory, social-emotional needs. I just thought this was an excellent, excellent document. So I look forward for it to come back for approval for us. Great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Thank you. Would it make sense, since we have the rest of the policy here, to go ahead with the approval so everything else is updated and... I'd rather this... This is such an important issue. I do have respect for... We have a meeting next week.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. Ms. Van der Kloot. Erin, I understand your concern and the importance of what you're saying. I have some questions about how it should be worded correctly, because there's also an obligation by the physician as well. So to just put all the onus on how we write it has to include both parties. And so I'm reluctant to all of a sudden just put a sentence in here and say we're going to approve it tonight. I'm hearing your concern. I understand there was an issue that I know nothing about. but I'm asking that we would give us an opportunity, you know, we could perhaps do it at the beginning of our next meeting. We could also have a subcommittee meeting, so we could bring it back next week. Wouldn't it be a long time frame? Would that be acceptable?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second it with the added.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We do not have anything before our meeting next week. Is that correct? We have.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. So we have to figure out when we can do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Anyway, we'll do it as quickly as possible. Mr. Russo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke, yes, I'd like to suspend the rules and I would like to change the order of the rules. I'd like to have the superintendent's updates and comments follow item four. Please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I just thank you to all of the students who came out tonight. It's so nice to hear you. And I would like if we could send to Judge Klein a thank you note from the school committee thanking her for taking the time out of her schedule and coming back home.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That would be great. I'm sure she would appreciate it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Nice job.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke, if you could have the, maybe we could do a picture afterwards.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I spoke with Marie Cassidy, and in fact, in the auditorium, the magician is going to need to set up. So we need a different location for that at the McGlynn, perhaps in the library, someplace where we can put a poster up and let people know we're there. And also, I think it would be advantageous if we had name tags for the committee members.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I seconded it. OK, you didn't have a question. The only other thing I would say is please keep us abreast of when there are fundraisings for this so that we can participate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Russo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, please. On the list from the Attorney General, there's Medford Field of Dreams is listed. We've had an interesting relationship with the Field of Dreams. That one is not, does not show up on our list.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm not sure whether they're collecting any money right now or? That's okay, yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The other question I had I think really reflects, I had expected a much longer list. So it's really the friends of all of those ones that you were alluding to earlier that would make sense for us to have a list of two, understanding that those are not 501c3s.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that was just my other question was, is there a Curtis-Tufts PTO? There is not that I was able to find at this time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just a question. When we have our budget book, we have a name, we have a department, and we have an amount of money. How come it works then?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. I wanted to remind the committee that we had voted to do a meet and greet prior to the Medford Family Network Valentine's Family Festival. It was advertised, or the Valentine's Festival has been advertised between 11 and 1 p.m. this year. which means that our meet and greet, when we were talking about it, would be the hour before 10. However, we must ask Superintendent that we have Lisa Evangelista, please, if she would write an article, and we have other advertising going out. The idea was that the... school committee would be available to meet and greet, and in no way would whatever room we're set up with, would that interfere with any of the setup for the Valentine Festival. So we need to make sure that it's advertised, though. And I just want to remind the membership that we said we would do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to express a little level of concern. While I'm interested in those numbers, I'm more interested in the confidentiality of the students. And I wouldn't want any reporting out to put pressure. Yeah, so just that balance.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Utilizing the pantry. We need to keep in mind, for instance, there was a photo of the event that you referenced about the, that not every one of those students necessarily was homeless or whatever, and that it's open to students and whatever. I just wanted, you know, I'm just concerned that because we're interested in the numbers and in due diligence and all the rest, we don't then discourage kids who really need to go from going.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just one suggestion. Yes. On the kindergarten registration parent, the form. The next to the last paragraph, it should be Medford Public Schools offers a before and after school program for registered students. Registration for both programs will begin on Monday, April 1st, 2019. Registration forms and pricing information will be available on the Medford Public Schools website. Somewhere you need to indicate that it is not free. or that there is a cost involved. So... Great suggestion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'll put that in. Suggestion. Also, I haven't figured out how to put it in, but it's not guaranteed. It's not... We've had years where a wait list has needed to be developed. So I think it's important that parents available on a first come, first serve basis or something. So if you would take a look at that, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Where it says up on the top?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van Kloot. Yes. To follow up on that, I would like to ask to reach out back to the Attorney General's office and ask them to, in fact, record it so that somebody who's interested but who cannot go at 10.30, I mean, who cannot be in front of a computer screen at 10.30 on January 22nd could watch it that evening or watch it sometime other to the week. I would really ask if you would go back and at least give them that suggestion and plea because it just seems that, you know, it's just not real to sort of say, oh, everybody, you've got to be available at this time, you know, to do this thing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Someone who's watching other people engage actively could learn a great deal. So maybe we could put a quick letter together from the Medford School Committee asking that they would please tape it and have it available at other times for people who can't make it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Would you like to sign all of them moving forward Very good.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vandekloot? Could you let us know what the projected salary range is? Yes. We can send you a copy of the job description. We'll put it in about 90. OK. And where would the person be housed?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are there any open interviews that school committee members could attend?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dr. Schuster, I just wanted to thank you for coming forward and sharing your knowledge with us. I think that for me what really touched home was the increase in the potency in THC. So thank you for being here tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Two things. First, whenever I hear that there's a program at the McGlynn, which of course sounds like a great idea, being partnered, I'd like to ask whether it's going to be similarly at the Andrews.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And then the second part, though, is if it's a McGlynn dance only? It is. So depending on how that goes, if we're not getting Andrews parents, we should see if we could do it. The other thing is just thinking back, and I believe it was at one of the April 2017 programs, That incredibly great movie that was shown.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, that was the screenagers. OK. Yeah. Different. A little different.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A couple of questions. Sure. First, or comments on the transportation. I'm assuming that this move to two smaller vans is good for the students as well. And so I just appreciated that we were taking that step to provide transportation for the newcomers in this new way. So I thought that was great. Secondarily, sort of to my concern also was, as my colleague, at this time then, there is no limitation on expenditures. Is that correct? Correct. Okay, great. Because we, again, we had the same issue when we heard that certain people were told they couldn't spend it because they hadn't done it soon enough. It's sort of surprising in some ways that people are a little, especially since that's happened in the past, that they're not a little more proactive.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd be happy to go help them spend it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, because we always know that there's other things that pop up throughout the school year. The last thing I just want to ask is you said that the business office team has been in transition and key roles. I was wondering if you could provide for the school committee a list of the names of all the business office personnel and their job titles or responsibilities. Great. Thank you very much, Christine. Thank you. Mr. Russo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you so much Mr. Zigney and to the members of the string ensemble here with us tonight. This morning I woke up and I was thinking about my day and I'm thinking okay gotta do this gotta do this and I'm thinking oh yeah school committee meeting tonight and then I thought oh and we're gonna hear music tonight and they're going to be with us and it just made my day so much better knowing you were gonna be here tonight. Thank you so much we really appreciate it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot is next. I think we need you to check into that. We received an email just before the meeting tonight asking us why we were not providing both. It seemed to be well thought out and certainly convincing. And if the machine doesn't support, there's always a little basket or something that we might be able to provide. So if you would get back to us on that. On the other hand, as you said, Paul, we're making progress, and I'm glad that we are. And I certainly think the initial And I think the disbursement of in the locations that you described should say, let's see how it goes. But our objective should be to provide the supplies throughout the entire schools.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think we'll start here. And I think in a short time we need to evaluate it. And, you know, I think that's our objective. My objective, now that it's been raised to us, it makes a lot of sense. So anyway, if you would get back to us on that question, and we'll... Point of information, Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Before I call the roll, Ms. Van der Kloot. Yes, before you call the roll, there's just one other sentence that I wish the committee to look at, because I kept on reading it and kept on reading it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. We don't have that in front of us. Michael, I didn't realize that you didn't have the written minutes for this meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So you are reporting on things. The only thing is that there is one item that, because of a time constraint, needs to be reported out from the subcommittee right now. So in some ways, the other stuff you're providing for us on this topic, we don't have a report on. The piece that we need to report out because of a time constraint, if I if I can proceed, or do you want to go with it? Well, I, oh, we can go ahead. You can speak to that. Okay, so there's the piece that we need to proceed on is that the subcommittee suggested, Michael's been talking about other ways to make us accessible to the community, and the subcommittee had a long discussion about this. And one suggestion was providing, rather than a formal meeting, an opportunity for the community to have a meet-and-greet for school committee members for the community. And to that end, we were thinking about what events already brought the community out, and there's one coming up in February. which is the Medford Family Network Valentine's Social. And so we discussed the possibility of having a meet-and-greet hour before the Valentine's Social, so that at the Valentine's Social, we customarily go and we scoop ice cream, and it's really nice to see people, but it's not an opportunity to get into much conversation. I did speak to Marie Cassidy about this, and she understood, and she said that if we were to proceed on this, she could put a line in her flyer to say prior, you know, from 2 to 3, come meet the school committee, or whatever, from 11 to 12. But because she's getting that information out to the public, we should That's the piece that's critical for tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I can't remember what date it is. I think it's the second Saturday.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: confused because he thought he was bringing the report to it. I have to explain that when you talked to me about it, I thought that the report that was on my desk was the report of this past meeting that we had on December 11th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to mention within all of the things that you mentioned, there also was an incredibly great middle school concert last Thursday night, which I had the pleasure and opportunity to attend. And as you know, our middle school select ensemble has been gold medal winners many times over. All of the levels, the 6th grade, the 7th and 8th, and the ensemble really did a terrific job. And Ms. Chang is just an amazing teacher. So I wanted to mention that tonight too. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, just one question on that. One of the concerns that was brought to us is the heating in the gym, and I've always been concerned about the windows. Have we included those in our submission? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Dr. Edward. I was going to ask if on the key actions for district improvement, number three, rather than saying by June, if you could say by mid-May, proposed key strategies, because I think it's essential that we have some time to hear the strategies and understand what the budget impact might be.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have a wordsmithing suggestion, and I redid it a couple times, so it got shorter and shorter, but for developing a district-wide focus on instruction, if I could suggest, you might phrase it this way. By working with principals and other district leaders, we will develop a common language about instruction which will be used as the foundation for improving instruction. I think that a word or two was left out inadvertently.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So just a quick update, as you know, the MASC hosted the annual joint school committee superintendent conference from November 7th to 10th in Hyannis, Massachusetts, representing Medford were myself, member Paul Rousseau, and our associate superintendent Diane Caldwell. Throughout the conference, we attended numerous presentations and events, including the update from the Department of Education a presentation involving all stakeholders, school law and legal updates, a presentation on the new super induction program, and many others. I myself was particularly pleased to have the opportunity to hear the new Commissioner of Education, Jeff Riley, speak. He felt like a breath of fresh air and it sounded to me like he would be more concerned with the whole child and will take a more measured approach to standardized testing. It was the first opportunity that I had to hear the Commissioner, and I'm hoping that we might set up to invite him to Medford to see some of our wonderful programs, completely like I thought about the CCSR or some of our early child programs. I'd like to get the Commissioner here, and it was really wonderful to hear him He truly was a breath of fresh air. Another highlight of the conference was the Thursday morning keynote speaker, Mark Brackett, PhD, a founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and professor in the Child Study Center at Yale University. Dr. Brackett explained his RULER approach, an acronym for the five key emotion skills of recognizing, understanding, labeling, expressing, and regulating emotions. And I referred to him at our last meeting when we were talking about social-emotional learning issues He is going to have some work that we might want to participate in. He was very, very inspirational, and so truly a highlight of the conference. Lastly, I myself facilitated the Division II meeting, which is our geographic region for MASC. We re-elected Stacey Rizzo from Revere to lead the division. She's a wonderful, active school committee member in Revere. And finally, I think that the MASC conference is always a way to connect with fellow school committee members from across the Commonwealth and gain an understanding that what we are dealing with here in Medford and issues that are important to us are also important to our fellow school committee members. It provides an opportunity to get a much broader view than just simply, you know, in our local community.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is a very exciting opportunity for the band. And Haley, it's just been so thrilling to watch the band get better and better with every performance. The pep rally was just great. The performances were just terrific. And I really need to congratulate you and every member because those kids, they're working hard and they're having a great deal of fun and you can see it on their faces. So thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vandekloot. Is what we developed consistent with, does it make sense to have that happen before we see what the state has in there? I just want to make sure it works.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But there's no reason not to go ahead, as my colleague suggests, with the form that we developed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I just think that that was Judy Lonergan's baby and that she was the one who started it and I think that whenever we talk about we should mention because it was a great idea and she really put a lot of work into it and she got it off the ground and we're really, our schools have really benefited from the fundraising that the run accomplishes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I wondered, as you spoke about the zones of regulation, I know that the Medford Educational Foundation had received requests from different guidance Councilors or whatever for signage, for materials. Have we been able to provide our students with, or each of our schools with some materials to support the zones of regulation?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I think that the thing was, our concern was that, well, at the time, it seemed very piecemeal, and we wanted it to be unified so that every school had the same sort of things. To be honest with you, I see that as a school initiative since we're doing this, that these are things that we should provide our classrooms. So I'd really like to have an opportunity to sit down and see what we've got and what in each school and what really the Councilors and teachers, the principals feel is necessary in terms of some visual reminders.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. The foundation didn't want to fund piecemeal projects. It's not what we're about, so we've really been waiting for this year to see what the initiative is going to be. And perhaps we'll be able to support it to some degree, but only if we have an understanding that we have a comprehensive approach to it. Also, I just want to mention that Mr. Rousseau and I, Paul, we had a wonderful opportunity at the school committee conference to hear a professor from Yale speak on social emotional learning. I don't have his name with me today. I do know he's going to be doing an in-service sort of training, which was really geared for superintendents, but unfortunately it's the same days as your superintendent conference down on the Cape. But I think we should look into it and see if it's a possibility. He was truly inspiring. So it might be nice to be able to send someone from our district to go. Wonderful. Mr. Russo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I did get to attend the evening, and I did find it very difficult to get around to all the different places. I joined a tour group. I will say the kids were great, and I heard and read in here, in your report, which is terrific, even though you didn't get that many responses, the responses you did get were very helpful. And many of them mentioned how terrific the tour guides were. But I was a little bit concerned because it did seem that it was hard I went back and, you know, went back to the CCSR and then it was all the way back around and it was like, whoa, this isn't, you know, and I started to see people sort of leave their tour group, which was problematical. The other thing is, and it's just because you're before me, I'm going to ask the question. In here, a couple people mentioned it was very hot and I think they were referring particularly to the vocational school. After that evening, I asked John McLaughlin, about the heat issue, and he did tell me that someone was coming in on November 6th. Is it better now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, good. Because I haven't followed it up in any other way, you know what I'm saying, and so I just was curious how it was.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. Paul, my comments aren't meant to be a criticism. Oh, no, no, no. Of course not. It's just a question of the fact is that you've got a lot of things to showcase and, you know, it's a relatively short two hours of showcasing them. So I'm glad, you know, that it went as well as it did and that, you know, as you, I think it's a continual refinement process. Yes, absolutely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So, Michael, I've been thinking about this a lot in different ways. One of the things, as soon as you just said ice cream, one of the things that I was thinking about is, and I think there are some things that you haven't really been able to participate in yet, So, for example, having a formal meeting and having all of this sort of information fair and volunteer fair and child care and entertainment seems at odds. They don't seem to fit together for me in terms. I'm not sure what the value is. But there is always value, always valuable being accessible to constituents. So part of the thing that many of us have done is, for example, in February, the MFN hosts the Ice Cream Social. It's a Saturday afternoon. And I was trying to say to myself, OK, so one piece, for example, is most often, certainly many of us are there. Maybe what we should do is start 45 minutes early or something and have an opportunity, meet the school committee members before we go and serve ice cream. Because we always go serve ice cream. Frankly, it's a great time to meet and interact with community members and their kids. And it's a lot of fun. But maybe there's a way to formalize a little piece of that so that there's a session beforehand or you know, we have our job to do. And of course, you have to be careful because you don't want to compete with the magician, okay? So that's one way. Another thing that we used to have was an evening with the superintendent, which the school committee members tended to show up at. And for a while, there was a period of time when we actually got a pretty good response. It was an opportunity then for the superintendent, and I might say, if we might say, an evening with the superintendent and school committee members for the community to come to hear the initiatives of the superintendent and school committee so that it was sort of understanding what the vision was of the body and doing something which was targeted I think the question that, and we've discussed volunteer work in the community engagement subcommittee has talked about volunteer work, to me that almost feels separate. Or we have a health fair that happens on Saturday. And the health fair would be, if you were to think about health care and volunteering, we already have an event. it's well attended, that we could combine a piece where the school committee members are present at that and we might set up other school activities to bring in that piece. As your resolution stands, I can't support it because I think that it's not focused enough to be valuable because it's going to be an awful lot of work. to create that event and wondering whether it will work. But to take your idea and say, which I think certainly has value, and to take a look at different pieces of it and say, how do we accomplish what you want to accomplish in existing venues which we could expand? without creating so much work, I think has value. So right now, rather than vote on it, I think the interesting thing is I think it should go back to the Community Engagement Subcommittee and that that would be the place to kind of sort out and to identify ways that we could work on this objective without going to one Saturday event. Now, the other piece of it, which I've mentioned to you just a little bit, I do think that one other thing that we might look at, maybe it comes at the same time when we do a superintendent thing, is helping inform the committee a little bit more about our budget. So, just another piece.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'm making a motion to send it to subcommittee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Yes, Mayor Burke, I commend you for already reaching out. And if that does come through, that's great, but I'll second my colleague's motion. It's not been unusual for us at all when we have outstanding students to support them and to let them be able to represent us with great pride. So we want to make sure you get to go no matter what.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Not really a question, but I just wanted to say to the students and to yourself, it was so great to see you at the Cummings event. I thought it was, I thought the students who asked questions did a particularly good job and it was really nice, especially since Mr. Cummings has been so grateful and generous to the CCSR. It was so grateful to see the students in attendance and to express their gratitude. Thank you very much for going and for being there and for all the work you're doing both to Rich, Michael, and to the students. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You bet. Ms. Van der Kloot. So I'm not sure whether I can make it on Monday, but I, uh, on Sunday, Sunday, Sunday, but I know that I can start off the donations, so here you go.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's disappointing that the tiles are not being produced anymore in the sense that a tile gives you an easily replaceable piece, while the pour is a much bigger problem. Do we know what the life expectancy of the pour is?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, two things that I have to take from this. The first is, it's terrific that the grant is still going to cover this, even though it's not a tile. So I think that I'm greatly relieved to hear that news tonight. And the second is, as difficult as it was that this project did not move forward quicker, in retrospect, now we can look back and say, thank God it didn't move quicker because we would then have an inappropriate tile that was defective. So God works in strange and unusual ways, and this may be one of them, but I am so very glad to hear that we can move ahead now. Do we need to take a vote in order to accomplish that of any sort?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do you want to vote again here? I think that we need to vote again on the school committee floor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does it need to be poured while under a certain temperature?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It sounds great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Very interesting. You're planning on selling a lot of tickets, but the small cost of the tickets may work in your favor, because everybody can afford a ticket, so great. I do want to tell you that you guys are reinventing the Home and School Association, the Medford Home and School Association, which has a deep history way back when, because I know it's something that I was involved in way back when, and the idea of it was exactly what you were doing, but at that time we had 13 schools all together. And in fact, we had a logo, and the logo was an umbrella because we were bringing everybody together under one umbrella. Not only did we do the sort of fundraising that you're doing, which was to say a citywide component, but we also, and this is just in the future, when you want something to do, We ran events, like we brought in the Bennington Puppets, something that, that one's just, we brought in the Boston Ballet, something that one school and group of fundraisers could not do, could not have the energy, but together people working together could do really fantastic things. So congratulations, and I'm so glad to see this effort. If you want any more information about the original, I can certainly tell you, but it is... I don't know what name you want to give us, Medford Elementary Citywide. We didn't say just elementary. It was the Medford Home and School Association. So throw it out there. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great. Thank you. Wonderful. A lot of exciting things happening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Any other questions for us? Oh, I'm so excited.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mrs. Lopore, for being before us again. I looked through this in detail and I thought it sounded wonderfully interesting. I wish I was going, well, I almost wish I was going until I saw you arriving at 3.45 a.m. and then on the day that you're leaving, you're departing at 4 o'clock in the morning. So, it is not for the faint-hearted. But anyway, thank you very much. I certainly will have my support.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just want to mention that last year, I think it was myself and Ms. Kreatz, Kathy, were able to attend one of the wonderful events at the Roberts School. It was really fun. It was joyous to be there. And the kids were having fun. And clearly, it was a very positive start to their day. So I think this is great. I want to thank you for the presentation tonight. I sort of have a feeling that we might be able to reach out to our new principal at the McGlynn and perhaps working together, we can get them involved as well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, I think this is Judy. Oh.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Excuse me, could you speak a little louder into the microphone? Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just have one question because I think maybe one of you might know this. On Playstead Road, all of a sudden there was a stencil of a bicycle. And it's not a bicycle lane, it's going down the middle of the road. And I've had people ask me if I understand why, rather than Everett Bicycle Lane, we have the stencil in the middle of the road. So do you know the answer?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. I actually found it. It's on the fourth page of the summary of the next generation district in school, this one. And it says, in an effort to control for student trends, DESE intends to measure the performance of each district. But the last line is, however, results for the lowest performing students group will include only those students who have been enrolled in the same school for two consecutive years. And that is an improvement.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, for the lowest performance. And that was something that I know that was very concerning to districts in the urban group whose students moved frequently between, say, Somerville, Chelsea, Medford, Everett. And so there was a group of school committee members spearheaded by Mary Jo Rossetti of Somerville, who's now a city council person, who had worked so diligently on that. And this is probably their attempt to address it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On that motion?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Could we ask, first, for how much that would cost? And also, then, is it retroactive for the people who just paid already? So before I vote on that, I would just be more comfortable if we were to bring it back next week.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Megan, could you just give us a review of at least ballpark, because I know it differs a little bit, but what is the tuition?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi, Dr. Baer. We've had the opportunity to meet a couple times already, so it's delightful to have you here. I had a question, which seems appropriate to ask you. As part of the school committee's responsibilities at some point, it's our responsibility to assess our superintendent on a yearly basis. But here we have a new superintendent who's only getting her feet wet and doing a tremendous job so far. One of those things, if I remember from the past, of course, is that the superintendent develops goals, measurable goals with the school committee. At which point with a new superintendent should we begin to think about that process so that we are doing our due diligence in terms of giving her feedback that is responsible and coordinated? It's perfect timing for that question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I understand my colleagues, Ms. Mustone's urgency about this, and I'm just curious whether there's a different way to think about it. Can we, and you know, I certainly understand the budgeting for this year and next year and whatever, but is there any way that we could accelerate our adoption by bringing in in the springtime some more teachers and we could classroom units because you know if I had a student in the fourth grade in the school who was in a classroom who wasn't getting it knowing that my friend student friends child was I'd be really upset and so that well I understand you know piloting and whatever there's there seems like an inequity in I'm trying to balance those two needs. So I think it's something. And sometimes we've worked, if you would, publishers or companies to even though we might take something earlier, the payment might still be thrown into the next year, especially because they understand our budgeting too. So if there was a way that we could accelerate the adoption in the spring and perhaps bring in more teachers by starting with the spring units, I think that's what would be ideal. OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I clearly was thinking about it, Superintendent, in terms of having a discussion of seeing if we could. And we've done it before, I mean, over years ago. We took sort of early receivership of materials and then it was thrown into the next year's budget. Of course, it all depends on the company's willingness to take, you know, to work that out with us or not, but just throw it on the table.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. This, of course, better indicates the difference between the McGlynn and the Andrews, which is 24 students apart, still close enough. But I did want to report that this weekend I ran into a parent and student, and student as well, who was currently attending sixth grade at the McGlynn. And the parent related to me that they had not been successful in their lottery choice and that she had been put at the McGlynn. And the parent told me she had been very upset at the time and now they couldn't be happier. And so it was such a heartening story to hear. and the student was just beaming and repeatedly told me how much she likes being at the McGlynn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: She mentioned that multiple times, by the way.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, they're not.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I just have a letter sent out on behalf of the school committee with our deepest thanks for this gift agreement and I mean it's just fantastic so if you would express our thanks.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke, I just also want to add that while I never was a school committee member contemporary of his, I had the privilege and honor of serving with him on the building the future committee and George was a very active and fun and you know we had during that period of time we had more meetings than you can count. And we sat and we deliberated on so many different things from both large to the small, to the minute, to the color of the tiles and the paint and et cetera. But anyway, George was so much fun and such an active member of that group. I will long remember him and feel very grateful to have known him.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ms. Van der Kloot? I would assume then also we'll get together and figure out some sort of reception that we might have to dedicate the plaque and the room.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Since we haven't approved many liquor licenses, I just want to understand exactly what the process is, if you could clarify.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So if I understand that the steps that need to happen are one, this document needs to be transferred to the Medford Public Schools and listed on our website. And then some outreach needs to be done so each of the PTOs and organizations are contacted and informed that they need to send this out. And so that's a major piece. I'm not sure that's all going to happen by the date that we originally had set out. Yeah, probably not. Probably not.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: While we're under suspension.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We received in our packets an update on the pressers, which I had requested last week. But yet, it was not on. There was nothing referenced on our agenda. So I just wanted to mention, since we're not going to update the General Welcome, that one of the things that we've seen is that many of our pressers with compressors, and as my colleague noted, they're 15,000 a cup. So this is a very important, you know, when we had those hot days, and all of a sudden we were relying on the air conditioning, this is a very important piece of it. And obviously, before we put off being able to replace these compressors when they should have been, I'm making the point of it because I think that, you know, as we speak about a, capital plan, this is clearly a unit, a place that we need to consider now, putting money aside, so that when we have these hot days, as we did at the historic school, we will be able to turn on the air conditioning effectively. So I just wanted to reference that since it was proposed. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I understand. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Christine, for continuing your work on this and for the people at City Hall. And thank you, Cheryl, for being tenacious and bringing the information last week. I can't wait for the dedication.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Good evening, everyone.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Superintendent, well, you've had a chance now to get your feet wet a little bit, and I'm just wondering what your plan is in terms of an administrative assistant, or whether you're still thinking of what the central office should look like.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just for clarity, we are not moving the report on Lesley University. We are reporting the issue of our, just to be clear, of our language achievement. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there a motion on the floor for executive session? Yes. Seconded by Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Heston.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's just a wonderful thing for us to be starting out this school year with the teacher's contract in place. And so that for all the people who worked on it and made sure that it happened so that we could cast our votes tonight, we're very, very happy and thankful.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: She did.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I also got calls letting me know that you were on the bus. And people just really felt the same way that I did, that Mr. Benedetto and my colleagues did. What a great way to start. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: John, I just wanted to ask, obviously, we've had a very hot start to the school year. How was bringing all of our air conditioning on and did it work?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right, so can you, if I could ask for a follow-up report of each of the schools and where we are in terms of the compressors, how many we need, so that we're aware of it, because obviously with the start of school like this, we need it to come online and work.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You gave us two samples. One was black topped and the other one was a sandy color. Which one will be used?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was just concerned about the black top.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But what I'm understanding is that Mrs. Rodriguez is saying we don't need to do that. We could use the statewide contracts. And I haven't quite figured out the discrepancy between what she's saying and why we would reopen the bid process.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So would we do the product through the statewide contract? Is there any difference in what we've received? And then?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then we would, then we would have to bid the labor?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, no, no, no.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, Mayor Burke, is it possible, since we all want to resolve this in the best possible way, is there possible that we could ask someone from the procurement office to sit down with Christine, with Mrs. Rodriguez, maybe with yourself, and talk, maybe talk to the, I just don't want to do anything illegal if we're not, you know, because we've already had a bid, so we need to be careful about that. But could we, clearly we can't settle it tonight. Clearly we want this, we want that playground done. I'm extraordinarily disappointed that it wasn't accomplished this summer. So could I make a motion that, the procurement office, Mrs. Rodriguez, Christine Patterson, sit down with this, perhaps have a discussion with the contractor who Mrs. Rodriguez talked with to see if there is a way to move forward on this for a less expensive.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I've made a motion that we have people sit down and talk to each other, including Mrs. Rodriguez, so that people are at the same table because questions have been raised. It's very difficult for us right here to be able to figure it out. And so since there are discussions and everybody wants the same thing, we all want the same thing on this. So I would ask my colleagues to second and vote on my motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Certainly. I said anybody who's germane to the process.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I have a motion though saying let's get... For a meeting, an immediate meeting. Yes, for people around the table to get together because there still is a discrepancy and I still believe it's important for both, for every person. And I'm not casting aspersions any way of saying that someone did the wrong thing or whatever. RFP has to be very detailed. I understand that process. Obviously, Cheryl has invested a great deal of time into this, and we're very grateful to her. So, let's get people around the table. We can't solve it tonight. So, I ask to call my motion, please, and I believe you seconded it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And Kirsten, who thinks to be there as well?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't have any problem with that. So, I mean, if we wanted to include a school committee member.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Could we ask that there be an update about the Leslie project and collaboration, either at our next school committee meeting or the one following that, depending on what's most appropriate?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And it was, it had to go, and again, I really have to look back. It had to go to committee of the whole. It couldn't just be done on the floor. We couldn't just say, oh, yes, we're going to name it for somebody. And, you know, more, a little more information needed to be coming. I mean, I'm sure we're all in favor of Lena being honored, but there is a process, and I think that there's a reason to keep to the process. So I think we need to send it to a committee of the whole. And I do forget there's some recommendation involved if we could look into it and check back to what it was just so that we're following our policy.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, the band room is now a designation. I'll get some information to the superintendent so that she can send it out and we can set up a meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Okay. Yeah, again, we can't vote it. There was definitely a process. We can't just vote it at a school committee meeting. And we can look at it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I believe that there was, we could have it in a separate meeting before. The reasoning behind it, there was a very exact reason behind it, which hasn't always been followed. It's true, but the reasoning behind it is that we just didn't want someone coming up and all of a sudden saying, oh yeah, we should name this four, without reflective thought, and does that make sense, and what is the larger picture, so that's why.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Yes, Diane, I just wanted to also thank you for your work. I know that you've had, as you've, we've been in this transition, you've had a large role and I wanted to thank you. Thank you, Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Please. But, so on one day we've got 141 sixth graders at the Andrews, and another day we have 140. But what we want to know is, without children being absent, how many, what is the number?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But we have the, what is the maximum number that are showing up now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What is the maximum number that are enrolled at that school?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So what we need and what Paul is saying is in order to determine what we're looking at, we really these numbers are the snapshot of the day as opposed to the potential large picture. And what I understand is you're saying I can't, I don't quite have that yet. What we're wondering is, you know, all of a sudden we see that the sixth grade is the same and then on the next day it's not. So we don't know, we can't tell by this, did we lose some people who then maybe enrolled their child at a different school because of the issues around the sixth grade. So we need a follow-up report on that when we get maximum numbers.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: last year, and I'm glad you were proactive and not a phone call. Absolutely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So for a while, PTOs, there was a period of time when different school PTOs did in fact take some of that on and were buying in bulk and coordinating the supplies. You know, it's one of those things. It takes a lot of effort and time. So you have a parent who's revved up about it and it lasts for a couple of years and then kind of falls by the wayside. It's certainly beneficial, but it is a, you know, it's just one more thing of organizing. But that isn't to say that it isn't worth trying to do.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I wanted to know whether we've replaced the teacher at the vocational school, the marketing teacher, whether we found someone to, I believe, that position retired or left for another?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so one teacher did leave though, right? Correct. Okay, thanks.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I'd like to suspend the rules, order of business, so that we can take up the new business, the CASA.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Point of information, that no good deed goes unpunished.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: First, I think that it's great that Erin, you've done the work on the homeless issue. And Michael, you're interested. It's certainly one that the MASC, Massachusetts Associated School Committees, has been interested. Unfunded mandates altogether has been a constant theme of their trying to, of advocacy. And it's very, very frustrating that the number of unfunded mandates that school systems have to deal with. On the budget overall, I think it's a, I was very pleased to see that the bottom line had risen and that we were able to accommodate so many things that we did want to put forth. I think that, Mayor, we're putting a great deal of trust in you because the other night you did, in response to one of my questions, mention that once you understand the level of free cash the city has, that we would be looking at a capital budget, which is just so essential now. We've actually been putting it off a little bit. When we came in, I think maybe two and a half years ago, we actually have done, we have the list of things that needs to be done, although they need to be updated. But some of those very same things, for example, playgrounds and whatever, they're on the list. And there's much smaller items and much bigger items. I think that is the one place in the budget which is just a little tough because, for instance, when I see The $100,000 in telephone savings, that would have been nice to be able to keep in the budget, but I have to be realistic about the demands of money on the city. And so I'm putting my trust in you, Mayor Burke, to make sure that we are going to move forward on a capital budget. I think that there's, we always have to understand, I said several times last week, that we are essentially in the bottom line, approving the bottom line of the budget. That's what we do. And that there always has to be understood that there will be some changes and some flexibility. So when we talk about areas that are of concern, that we might be seeing changes, hopefully, in the ways that the committee would like to direct over the next couple of weeks and months. So I'd like to put a motion forward to approve the budget. Yes. To approve the budget. Because my daughter is employed in the vocational program, I'd like to sever the vocational salary budget for $2,416,682 and vote on that separately. And then put forward a, so with someone else could put forward that motion to approve that piece of it. And then I would put forward a motion to approve the rest of the budget, 58,608,631, which will give us a grand total of 66,629,011. Is there a motion on the floor for approval of the vocational salary budget for fiscal 19 of $2,416,682? Yes. It's a motion by Ms. Kreatz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Abstain.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just want to mention that after our budget meeting on Thursday, by chance I found myself walking out to our cars with the new superintendent-elect, and she and I had a very interesting discussion about the kindergarten aides and what her what she would like to see for kindergarten age, what she would want expectations. She obviously would very much like to see support in kindergartens, but she also had some very clear ideas which were, I don't think it's for me to share, but I can guarantee you from that discussion that I've had with her, I don't think that this is just something that's going to go by the wayside. I do think we want her to be able to weigh in. I think we've talked about that there is some levels of flexibility in the budget that we need to hear the report from the security company to determine which way we're going forth. And so without, I mean, again, it's a little, I don't want to speak for her, but yet I do want to share with my colleagues that I had a most interesting conversation about that. And I feel comfortable from that, that she has a direction.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just, you know, I guess it's a different, different way of approach because for me, I am voting for all the teachers who are in this budget. I'm voting for all the administrators who are in this budget. I'm voting for all of the supplies that are in this budget. I'm voting for all of the coaches who are in this budget. I'm voting for all of the different, every level of different things and While I certainly understand the importance of some of the smaller other issues that people are bringing up and are concerned about, and I share that concern too, there are so many things. I think a vote no for the budget says that we are not providing adequate monies to educate our children. And I believe that we are. I think that we always would like to have more. Everybody would like to have more. But this is a sound budget.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: appropriate to thank all of the people who worked on the budget, particularly our superintendent of finance, Christine Patterson, and everybody else who just helped put this together, who did number crunching, who did paper collating. It's a huge job, and we're most appreciative.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot? May we take community participation before the report of committee? Sure. Committee of the whole.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's great to see you again. This was a great event last year, and I'm so glad you're here and going to continue the tradition. So thank you very much. Absolutely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. So first I want to say I think this is an absolutely wonderful idea. When that entranceway was refurbished some years ago, the idea always was that there should be plantings on that hill adjacent to the steps. And it's always made me very sad that that, you know, it's just kind of a dull space rather than an exciting space. I'm very enthusiastic about this project, and I really appreciate the idea. I have only one concern, which, you know, maybe you've thought about. I could see that a fallen apple could make a great missile, ball, substitute ball. So, projectile is probably the word that I really want. So I just want to ask if you've considered that, and how would you make sure that students are respectful of the fallen fruit and that we wouldn't find it being used for target practice against the side of the school?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: maybe some signage, too, about this project and what it is might help so that the students really are respectful of it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Also, in terms of the slope of the area that is to be planted, is that slope okay for the trees that you've suggested? Does it matter that there's a slope?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and how about watering the trees? making sure they've got enough water.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I'd like to also thank my colleague for donating the blueberries and being a help in this project. I think it's great, girls. Thank you so much for your presentation tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I think that one of the things which makes this particularly is that the fact that you guys are just freshmen now and you're gonna be able to, you're gonna have a piece of this throughout the rest of your high school career. And that really makes this even more meaningful than if you were seniors going out the door. So, thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. So, obviously, there's a lot we can learn. Smaller groups, more targeted groups, particularly, you know, with the struggling students, and being able to have extra hands like the high school students is great, just so that you can do a little bit more one-on-one. However, I also would like to say, let's say that if this was a six-week opportunity twice a week, that we might also think about. There are kids who excel, and it would be great to have maybe not as long, but if they're excited about math and they want it to come so badly, I mean, in an ideal world, if we can afford it, we should also have maybe a shorter, maybe a three-week, you know, session whatever, for the kids who excel so that we're bringing them up. And, you know, I'd really like to see both of those happen. If we were doing it again next year, this year we did it starting, I think it was in February, was it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: January. Very end of January. Right. So would you do a session in the fall and then a session in the early winter? What would your optimum timing be?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Well, thank you. I mean, I think this really sort of lays the foundation for us. And I realize that it is difficult to get faculty members to want to stay and do this, and that we need to be creative and see how else we can get all hands on deck for the kids. But thank you very much, and thank your teachers who participated.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I love the idea. A couple of questions in terms of practicality. You know the Italian exams that you take where the kids just like- The national exams. Yes. We do it in all three languages.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so how much does the AAPPL?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And students take it as in their, win of their senior year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So they don't get it, I mean, it would be even more helpful to our students to get some indication of the proficiency level when they're applying to colleges or. Right. But it doesn't really come then. It's really given at graduation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. So it's really given at graduation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, for me, if it would inspire kids to do well in language, and for certain some kids it will, because they would like to get it. It's a relatively small cost. How many kids do you anticipate would take it? You said you were 20.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so we might have 40 or 60?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I appreciate Mrs. DeCarlo for bringing us this information. I mean, I think it's a really interesting initiative, so thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just too wanted to add my thoughts, and I know we're going to see you again, but it's been a long wonderful journey with you, and we really, you know, seeing the department grow so much, and thank you for all your dedication and the opportunities that have been afforded to our students. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, they have, they have the whole report. Yes. I don't see, no, we didn't get to pricing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Teixeira. I guess the one question I have for you is with the redesign of the middle school EL program, it still keeps the whole EL population at the McGlynn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Which I understand was done six years ago because it was the way that at the time seemed the most efficient. But yet at the same time, I think that there isn't any equity that builds into our system where we don't have EL students at the Andrews. Given the numbers that we have now and the redesign you're talking about, does it still make sense to have all the EL students at the McGlynn?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I, yes, I'm fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So once we get responses to the RFP, let's say that we're surprised, because all of a sudden, we've got three. One's from Salem State, one's from Bunker Hill, and one's from Leslie. At that point, do we get to sit down and look at them and decide which is the best?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So tonight you'd like a motion to go forward with putting together an RFP and putting it out to bid.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'd make a motion that we go forward with creating the RFP and then putting it out to bid.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I didn't have a question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just want to ask a question in a different way. So right now, we've got 169 kids at the Andrews. And we have two teams. Each team is made up of four classes. If we do the math, that means that there would be 21 kids in each of those classes, right?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I was talking about core academic classes. I mean, the two teams, if you would, it means there's there would be 85 on each team. And of course, then in the corresponding school, there would be 15 kids in a class if you divide the number by eight, which obviously is great. Now, we've been very proud of our class size numbers, and frankly, 21 at middle school is not bad. Certainly for the McGlynn, where we have the EL and newcomers and whatever, it's an advantage to be there because it's smaller class size. But if you look at the numbers, 21 isn't awful. We've got many elementary kids classrooms where there might be 21. So I'm just looking at it in a different way and wondering and saying this is causing us a great deal of pain. We understand how much pain this causes parents. I don't know in terms of the inequity, in terms of our teaching staff, there may be teachers at the Andrews who feel unfair, but they're still very much within contractual limits.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, history has told us that there is a swing, that, I mean, that's, when we looked at at the projections over all the years, it was a clear swing. In fact, it balanced out amazingly so in the end. Absolutely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. No, I was looking at her face. Sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. I mean, I do, I understand that. You know, the difference is if we split them evenly, then our class size is 19 in each versus 21. So just throwing it out there, because I looked at it differently.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So in terms of the split that currently is in place, are there... Is the special education population equally recognized between the two schools?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So along that same line of thinking, we, have said six kids need to go to the McGlynn because of their program, the ELL program. They don't have any additional friends there. They've been made to go to a program. So frankly, they're pretty isolated from their group of friends. Where are you getting the six from?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The six who are going to the The two?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, OK. All right, so then two. OK, it's two. But still, it's not a lot of familiar faces, so I don't know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Fingers are up. Ms. Van der Kloot. So actually, the last time we discussed this, I had recommended that Mr. Tucci go to the schools. And obviously, he didn't have time. Now we're zeroing in on one particular school. Setting up a parent meeting, I'm not sure, but how about first, I think we need to allow Mr. Tucci time to be down there at the beginning of school, on a day, or the end, just where parents might be there. I think we need to send home a letter saying, giving them one last time, but saying Mr. Tucci's gonna be at the school at these times to give you a chance, and he's going to be visiting the fifth grade classes. I mean, that's how I'd go about it. And then I think you set a date. I think you set the date for the randomization of numbers, as my colleague says, to be sometime next week. But you set that up this week. You said send a letter home. You have Mr. Tucci be at the school at times when parents can meet with him. You have him be out maybe at the playground or something with students, fifth grade students, so he can get a chance to meet them. At the very least, it will at least give students familiarity with Mr. Tucci so that if they are the ones selected, they will at least have a face rather than just a name. So I think that that would be beneficial no matter what. I understand Mr. Tucci's just taking on a new position. This is just I just think that we need to get other people to cover it for the time that he's at the Brooks. I'm not, you know, suggesting he spend the whole day there, but I'm suggesting he be there when parents might reasonably be there and visit the classrooms, the fifth grade classrooms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I think you need a night meeting when parents can... To be honest with you, I would do both. I would have him there where he's around and either drop off or pick up. I mean, certainly Ms. Galusi can give you an idea of how many of the fifth graders' parents actually drop them off and if that is whether there would be any to talk to. And I'd certainly have him go into the fifth grade classes to introduce himself and let him. Well, the kids might go home and say, hey, I met the new principal. And then we make it clear that it's going to happen. But at least we've given it another shot.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Ms. Vander Kloof up next. The only thing I'd like to clarify is that the only message that I've received along the lines of what you're talking was, in fact, at a recent meeting when the person texted me to let me know that we were not, the sound was not on. And that was actually very helpful for us to know. So I think, I mean, that wasn't a question, that was just a point of information which was useful for us to know so that we were responsive. So I just need to be clear that that is a decidedly different type of message than someone asking you something. The only other way to do it is if someone were to, and I'm just throwing this out, is to announce this question comes from. And I wondered, I just sort of wondered, Paul, what your reaction to that is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does the emergency cover the sound off?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does the emergency cover that the sound is off?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I think it's, I certainly support Mr. Rousseau's motion. I just want to make the clarification.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot? May we take community participation before the report of committee? Sure. Committee of the whole.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's great to see you again. This was a great event last year, and I'm so glad you're here and going to continue the tradition. So thank you very much. Absolutely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So first I want to say I think this is an absolutely wonderful idea. When that entranceway was refurbished some years ago, the idea always was that there should be plantings on that hill adjacent to the steps. And it's always made me very sad that that, you know, it's just kind of a dull space rather than an exciting space. I'm very enthusiastic about this project, and I really appreciate the idea. I have only one concern, which, you know, maybe you've thought about. I could see that a fallen apple could make a great missile, ball, substitute ball. So, projectile is probably the word that I really want. So I just want to ask if you've considered that, and how would you make sure that students are respectful of the fallen fruit, and that we wouldn't find it being used for target practice against the side of the school?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: maybe some signage too about this project and what it is might help so that the students really are respectful of it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Also, in terms of the slope of the area that is to be planted, is that slope okay for the trees that you've suggested? Does it matter that there's a slope?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and how about watering the trees? Making sure they've got enough water.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I'd like to also thank my colleague for donating the blueberries and being a help in this project. I think it's great, girls. Thank you so much for your presentation tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. I think that one of the things which makes this particularly is that the fact that you guys are just freshmen now, and you're gonna be able to, you're gonna have a piece of this throughout the rest of your high school career. And that really makes this even more meaningful than if you were seniors going out the door. So thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, thank you. So obviously there's a lot we can learn. Smaller groups, more targeted groups, particularly, you know, with the struggling students. And being able to have extra hands like the high school students is great, just so that you can do a little bit more one-on-one. However, I also would like to say, let's say that if this was a six-week opportunity twice a week, that we might also think about, there are kids who excel, and it would be great to have maybe not as long, but if they're excited about math and they want it to come so badly, I mean, in an ideal world, if we can afford it, we should also have maybe a shorter, maybe a three-week, you know, session whatever, for the kids who excel so that we're bringing them up. And I'd really like to see both of those happen. If we were doing it again next year, this year we did it starting, I think it was in February, was it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: January. Very end of January. Right. So would you do a session in the fall and then a session in the early winter? What would your optimum timing be?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. Well, thank you. I mean, I think this really sort of lays the foundation for us. And I realize that it is difficult to get faculty members to want to stay and do this, and that we need to be creative and see how else we can get all hands on deck for the kids. But thank you very much, and thank your teachers who participated.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: van der Vloot, I love the idea. A couple of questions in terms of practicality. You know the Italian exams that you take where the kids, you know. The national exams.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so how much does the AAPPL?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And students take it as in their, when of their senior year?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So they don't get it, I mean, it would be even more helpful to our students to get some indication of the proficiency level when they're applying to colleges or. Right. But it doesn't really come then. It's really given at graduation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. So it's really given at graduation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, for me, if it would inspire kids to do well in language, and for certain some kids it will because they would like to get it, It's a relatively small cost. How many kids do you anticipate would take it? You said you were 20.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so we might have 40 or 60?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I appreciate Mrs. DiCarlo for bringing us this information. I mean, I think it's a really interesting initiative, so thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just too wanted to add my thoughts and I know we're going to see you again but it's been a long wonderful journey with you and we really, you know, seeing the department grow so much and thank you for all your dedication and the opportunities that have been afforded to our students. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Once approved. Yes, they have, they have the whole report, yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Teixeira. I guess the one question I have for you is with the redesign of the middle school EL program, it still keeps the whole EL population at McGlynn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Which I understand was done six years ago because it was the way that at the time seemed the most efficient. But yet at the same time, I think that there is an inequity that builds into our system where we don't have EL students at the Andrews. Given the numbers that we have now and the redesign you're talking about, does it still make sense to have all the EL students at the Andrews?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van de Kleef. So once we get responses to the RFP, let's say that we're surprised, because all of a sudden we've got three. One's from Salem State, one's from Bunker Hill, and one's from Leslie. At that point, do we get to sit down and look at them and decide which is the best?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So tonight you'd like a motion to go forward with putting together an RFP and putting it out to bid.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'd make a motion that we go forward with creating the RFP and then putting it out to bid.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I didn't have a question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just want to ask a question in a different way. So right now we've got 169 kids at the Andrews. And we have two teams. Each team is made up of four classes. If we do the math, that means that there would be 21 kids in each of those classes, right?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I was talking about core academic classes. I mean, the two teams. If you would, it means there would be 85 on each team. And of course, then in the corresponding school, there would be 15 kids in a class if you divide the number by eight, which obviously is great. Now, we've been very proud of our class size numbers. And frankly, 21 at middle school is not bad. So certainly for the McGlynn, where we have the EL and newcomers and whatever, it's an advantage to be there because it's smaller class size. But if you look at the numbers, 21 isn't awful. We've got many elementary kids' classrooms where there might be 21. So I'm just looking at it in a different way and wondering and saying this is causing us a great deal of pain. We understand how much pain this causes parents. I don't know in terms of the inequity in terms of our teaching staff. There may be teachers at the Andrews who feel unfair, but they're still very much within contractual limits.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, history has told us that there is a swing, that, I mean, that's, when we looked at the projections over all the years, there was a clear swing. In fact, it balanced out amazingly so in the end. Absolutely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I was looking at her face.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. I mean, I do. I understand that. You know, the difference is if we split them evenly, then our class size is 19 in each versus 21. So just throwing it out there, because I looked at it differently.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So in terms of the split that currently is in place, Is the special education population equally recognized between the two schools?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Darn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So along that same line of thinking, we have said six kids need to go to the McGlynn because of their program, the ELL program. They don't have any additional friends there. They've been made to go to a program. So frankly, they're pretty isolated from their group of friends.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The six who are going to the... Two. Two?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Six didn't request anything and they're going... Oh, okay. All right, so then... Two. Okay, it's two. But still, it's not a lot of familiar faces, so... I don't know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Fingers are up. Ms. Van der Kloot. So actually, the last time we discussed this, I had recommended that Mr. Tucci go to the schools. And obviously, he didn't have time. Now we're zeroing in on one particular school. Setting up a parent meeting, I'm not sure, but how about first, I think we need to allow Mr. Tucci time to be down there at the beginning of school on a day or the end of where parents might be there. I think we need to send home a letter saying, giving them one last time, but saying Mr. Tucci's gonna be at the school at these times to give you a chance and he's going to be visiting the fifth grade classes. I mean, that's how I'd go about it. And then I think you set a date. I think you set the date for the randomization of numbers, as my colleague says, to be sometime next week. But you set that up this week. You said send a letter home. You have Mr. Tucci be at the school at times when parents can meet with him. You have him be out maybe at the playground or something with students, the fifth grade students, so he can get a chance to meet them. At the very least, it will at least give students familiarity with Mr. Tucci so that if they are the ones selected, they will at least have a face rather than just a name. So I think that that would be beneficial no matter what. I understand Mr. Tucci is just taking on a new position. This is just I just think that we need to get other people to cover it for the time that he's at the Brooks. I'm not, you know, suggesting he spend the whole day there, but I'm suggesting he be there when parents might reasonably be there and visit the classrooms, the fifth grade classrooms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would have him there where he's around and either drop off or pick up. I mean, certainly Ms. Galusi can give you an idea of how many of the fifth graders' parents actually drop them off and if that is, whether there would be any to talk to. And I'd certainly have him go into the fifth grade classes to introduce himself and let them. Well, the kids might go home and say, hey, I met the new principal. I mean, you know, and then we make it clear that it's going to happen. But at least we've given it another shot.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Ms. Vander Kloof up next. The only thing I'd like to clarify is that the only message that I've received along the lines of what you're talking was, in fact, at a recent meeting when the person texted me to let me know that we were not, the sound was not on. And that was actually very helpful for us to know. So I think, I mean that wasn't a question, that was just a point of information which was useful for us to know so that we were responsive. So I just need to be clear that that is a decidedly different type of message than someone asking you something. The only other way to do it is if someone were to, and I'm just throwing this out, is to announce this question comes from. And I wondered, I sort of wondered, Paul, what your reaction to that is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does the emergency cover the sound off?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does the emergency cover that the sound is off?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. Well, I think it's, I certainly support Mr. Rousseau's motion. I just want to make the clarification.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot? Yes, Mayor Burke, while we're under suspension, I ask that we bring up the Medford Teachers Association next. They've asked if we could move them up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mayor Burke. I just wanted to address the McGlynn teachers. I appreciate their coming down tonight and telling the school committee what individually they've been up to in their classrooms and outreaching with students and to really take a hold this year and in previous years as well, but really to work and maximize the potential for every student at the McGlynn. It's unfortunate that it's under these circumstances, perhaps, but it's always great to hear from our faculty members. I do not make the leap that I think some have. There was a lot of tension. We know that. I think that's a fact, that there was tension at the school this year, earlier, and in fact, many of the McGlynn teachers came and addressed the school committee. But in no way, shape, or form does that mean or should it imply that we don't have the greatest respect for our McGlynn teachers, that we don't value their input each and every day, and that we aren't extremely proud to know that these are our staff, our people who are working at the school. I only see bright things. I know there's some turbulent times, but out of turbulent times, we will get better. And so I thank you very much for coming and appreciate the statements of those who came.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Melanie, I just wanted to mention one thing. I think that your call for community and family engagement was heard very much by the school committee and is reflected in the choice of our new superintendent. Certainly, as we went about interviewing people and talking to them, that was a major concern. And in fact, we've picked someone who we feel will be able to broaden family engagement and reach into communities that perhaps have been, not perhaps, but have been underrepresented. So I think that that is an extremely important point and that we heard you very clearly and know that that is a concern that we would like to make sure that we're broadening community and family engagement. By the way, one of the things that you mentioned about the podium and the way you come here, that's one of the reasons why many of us actually prefer committees of the whole, because it's a much more feeling of collaborative discussion when we're around the table versus here, which is a much more formal presentation. And remember, as you speak, part of the thing is your face is to the camera, and so while you're here, it's always awkward because your face is, you know, your back is to the community, but there's the larger community at home.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Mayor Burke, I just think that there may be positions that we want the superintendent to move on, and so I'm not, excluding that as a potential. But they have to be reviewed by us. Yes, but they would be, we would be part of that discussion. Now, of course, you know, um, and you know, I think the superintendent has made it very clear that he would also want to include, uh, the superintendent elect as well. Um, but to say there's going to be nothing happening to, um, until July 1st, I don't want that to be, um, the feeling there, there certainly needs to be movement. For instance, we might very well want to solidify our principal at the McGlynn, for example. We don't want to wait until July 1st to do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. So I just want to mention a couple of things. I think that at the time, as we consider potential people who would fill, at least in my head, and I guess I have to speak for myself, clearly the assistant superintendent, as it is outlined exactly in that, would have been the person who would have been most likely to step into the role. However, she's retiring. The deputy. The deputy superintendent. Beverly Nelson. Yeah. So she's retiring.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sorry. She's retiring. This is not the time to ask her in her career as she winds down for her to all of a sudden step into a very difficult role at the last minute. Another potential would have been Dr. Perella. Well, I don't think it's appropriate to then ask the guy who you just didn't forward on to the finalists to step into the role. Things change. I don't think that the superintendent is able. I believe that if, for example, had he taken ill, which thankfully he did not, but had he been taken ill, that people would have put any personal consideration aside because the loyalty to Mr. Belson is extreme amongst the people he's worked with. So I don't think, Angela, that we did not think about the succession plan or that we belittled it. I think we're going to have to look at it again as we do a new administration comes in to make sure that it all makes sense and look at our people, whatever. But I don't think that was the intent of the school committee just to overlook it. I think that they were extenuating circumstances. In my mind, there was only one thing that was important, and that is, what is in the best interest of the Medford Public Schools right now to ensure an effective transition to the next superintendent? So, if it, in the, as we now make that transition to a new superintendent, I have no problem at all revisiting that policy, taking a look at it, but essentially, it's going to stand. But, you know, For me, and you know, the big question of who do we hear, school committee members heard from a lot of people, a lot of people. And of course, there's been a very vocal segment of the community who's been very out there, who's been very upset with Mr. Belson, and there's been a whole lot of other people who've supported him. I feel that we are elected in the most difficult circumstances to keep our eye on the prize and be able to separate ourselves from all the different opinions we hear, no matter how difficult it is, and say, what is the most important thing going forward? For me, it was to say, how do we make the best transition? And in my mind, It was at this point, given the circumstances that presented itself, it was to keep an experienced superintendent who had dedicated his life to Medford to move forward through the next eight weeks.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: van de Kloet. So I understand that that evening was unfortunate and did not play well. I think that you meant the question now in a respectful way, and that we responded by saying, hey, this is the plan. OK? There were extenuating circumstances which happened, okay? There's another person who might have been a potential, but it wasn't a good time for her to take the role. We need to look at the large picture and determine what was the best course. And I understand there are a lot of people who disagree with us. The only thing that I can say is that there are five people who are extraordinarily different in many, many ways, and yet five of us agreed that this was the best path. Two did not, and I respect my colleagues for their decision, but this is the way it operates in our public discourse of majority rules. Five of us agreed that this was the best way. In going forward, Absolutely, especially if we have any changes in the way that we operate at central administration. We'll need to come up with a new succession plan in case we have, and hopefully we won't. Hopefully we won't in the future. We wish our new superintendent-elect a long and hopefully blissful reign as being superintendent. Mr. Russo.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just have a couple of thoughts on this. If, I'm reflecting back on the presentation by our superintendent elect and what Dr. Edouard-Vincent suggested was that we first appeal to people. Now, I don't think we can appeal to people and ask them if they might consider moving their child to the McGlynn unless we have. Absolutely key and so I would want to see us move on I Understand there might be some negotiations involved. I don't know whether the person who's there is ready to want that position, but I Obviously, he's been met with a lot of favoritism, and I think that if it was clear who the principal was, when we did this, it was, oh, there's no principal, while the other schools had a principal. I mean, I wouldn't have selected my school if, well, here there's no principal. So the first thing we have to do is move on on that appointment. That would be my number one. The second is the most obvious and is that we have a group of students. There's 21 students at the McGlynn and many of their peers already traditionally stay at the McGlynn. Now maybe not all 21 would go. But certainly if there is, because of the proximity, that principal who we put into place might be able to make a bond with the kids and family. So I'm just wondering whether it isn't worth putting a little bit of effort into saying it's not going to be quite equal, there'll be some imbalance that we're going to live with this year. But over time, And Mr. Martelloni did this very well. He showed us in his graphs how it had changed. We put a strong principle into the McGlynn, we're going to see a change. So I think that And down the road, we might want to do something completely different like Dr. Maurice floated to us as an idea out of the box. But I definitely think that we should at least send out letters to parents. We need to put a principle in place. We need to have, and we need to at least target maybe the McGlynn Elementary students saying, would you be willing? Now, again, there may be some parents who aren't for particular reasons that their kid needs a change, but then maybe on the other hand, someone's going to be here who the principal is and the rest of the group, and they're going to say, hey, I'd kind of like him for my kid. He would be a good match. So that would be my first thought.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just two things. I think first, part of my thinking about the McGlynn was simply because the hopefully principal elect, I'll say that, was a proximity. However, clearly it does make more sense for him also. if he takes the position to reach out to other students and other families, and we might need to figure out a way to do that. Also, ultimately, when we made the decision, it was really based on finances and put the groups of ELL students together. That did disrupt our racial balance plan, which I do have a copy of, and really was the—I mean, when these schools came out, there was an initial racial balance plan and how we're going to do it and how we select schools. And it might be beneficial for the committee to just be aware of what that plan is. So we'll talk about that at our next meeting too. I'll make sure that people get a copy of it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So because I think there are a lot of questions surrounding this. Of course, there should be. And we definitely need more information. I would move the paper to a committee of the whole so that we can discuss it as soon as possible.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: very much want to make sure to have an understanding of the impact on our student usage at the same time. And security, obviously. Obviously is a priority. I have a thing about the windows in the gym, and man, if they would replace the windows.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Of course. Yes, yes. So.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Going forward with this, if that's what we ought to do, I mean, I would really, this is something where I really would like to have the superintendent-elect involved. I think they've done by something that part of the discussion is I think they've done Alice in Boston. So, and so I just, you know, I, I think it will be, I'm very glad you're going out. I think that if we if the new superintendent elect has had some experience with this, that we want to certainly be talking to her right now about this specific item, and wish that you would bring it up, and experience and whatnot. I will say, Doctor, I'm sorry, at the Fisk School in Lexington, Mr. Martelone, just, they were doing it, and you know, I hope that he would at least be willing to still have a conversation with us. He just might be very useful in saying how it goes. I do know a teacher who's out there, and I certainly will pursue that to have a conversation with them, but if we could reach out to him as well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to ask whether the collaboration with Midday is expected to continue next year?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just think that that's such a strong addition right now, and that's something that we should be marketing, if you would, to prospective students of saying, hey, you know, and I've seen photographs I was over at Midea one day. I've talked extensively to them and they see it as a positive, a win-win. Their engineers are having a great time with the kids. So I just, I think that many parents don't know that it exists. So I would like us to see that. I'd also like to thank you for all of your years of work with the Medford Public Schools and leading the department. can say that you're on the retirement list and I'm sure that must be a little bittersweet, but I just want to make sure that I take a moment to thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: for staying so long tonight. I know it's a long drive home too, so I really appreciate it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just real quick, on the annual rental fees, I guess it makes me a little nervous that we only collect them once a year. Can we insist that they be paid twice? Because if one of these goes out of business or something like that, we could really be left holding I don't know how much each of these, AIC, Tibetans, Redemption Church, I don't know how much they pay us, but I'm just concerned that maybe going forward it would be a better idea to collect.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: When are they due?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, it just makes me a little nervous.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But I guess I'm just suggesting a twice a year collection as opposed to... Again, these were contracts in place, so I didn't have that option.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I just want to follow up and I wonder whether you've ever faced this kind of situation at one of the schools that you oversaw or the principal of and what did you do?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Was there any special education students or students with disabilities that you had to make arrangements for?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to know whether you had any questions for us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Very nice stuff. This is a budget scenario.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have a question. Do you have any questions for us? Excuse me, do you have any questions for us?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just want to thank Mrs. Kreatz for that report and the interesting way she's presenting to us. That's great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vanderpool. Just a technical thing. Under the school committee members, Kathy Kretsch is already listed in the above as a subcommittee. And if I'm listed separately, I should be put Paulette Van der Kloot, and please put non-voting, because I attended the meeting, but I'm not part of the subcommittee, and was not voting that night. Or you could just put me in parents and community members.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. Got it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we need to just vote that first. And then we'll do a motion to take the out of order.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, so on the June 1st, I'm just concerned that it's at the very time that we're preparing budget. I just want to understand what works best, whether it's that we do that at the year end, which would be June 30th?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just want to pick a date that makes sense. Me too.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Like an update. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. So the report also included information about the finalists that were brought to the school committee by the Superintendent Search Committee. Those four finalists were Dr Maurice and Ward Vincent. Dr. Perrella, Dr. Straight, and Mr. Thomas Martelone. Tonight, the committee met prior to this and voted to continue looking into the backgrounds and speaking with Dr. Marice Edouard-Vincent and Mr. Thomas Martelone. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So this is one of those topics that goes around. But when I first got involved, the first topic that I brought together a group of parents to talk about was called Leave My Child Alone. And that was the first forum that we had to discuss this issue. And it's come to that. I absolutely agree that now that the technology that's has just brought Atlanta to a whole new level. Now, back in, I think it was around 2010, school committee, Anne Marie Pugnell, working with Representative Paul Donato, we did a couple of public forums as well around the topic of polling. At that point, we did put together a rather extensive policy and some procedures. It seems to me that what we need to do is we need to review those, that everybody's on board. And it's probably time again that we again do a public program about educating parents about bullying and how they can help their students.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: At that particular point, Ann Marie was working with
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we want to make it a committee of the home?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to accept the report and place it on file. Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, just for the response to intervention, do we need any additional monies for planning for that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Right. So I'm just wondering whether we're going to need to build in more money for that. It just seemed earlier that when we talked about that. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So that's really what I was getting at, because I know some systems do have paid tutors. That's right. And I don't know whether it's something which we can get volunteer tutors or whether we are going to need, because of consistency, to have paid tutors and how much that might cost us. So I guess I just thought that might be a budget item.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Anderson? So if I understood, you just said a classroom per grade in each school? Right. So for the kids who aren't piloting the program, we were concerned about our science curriculum overall. And also the ability of kids to do hands-on stuff. So as we're piloting programs, how are we making sure that the other students who are not piloting the programs have the same opportunities as those who are getting the new materials.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So is your plan to make a new recommendation for whatever program we're going to go with by next year?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It can't be too long.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We're not ready to go now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So I just had one more question, and that is, when we do implement FOSS, what is the approximate budget amount that you anticipate?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just, we are not moving forward this year because we want to vet it more. Correct. Not because we're not, we can't afford it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Just making sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. So it's.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Tony, you let us know when we confirm a date for the presentation on anxiety. That's May 9th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we need to let you know that we want to come?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We want to come. Mr. Ruggiero.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi. I think it would be helpful if we understood a little bit more about your current job capacity. Boston is a little bit unknown to us. And so if you could explain exactly what you do in your current position, that would be extremely helpful.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I'm not sure if- When you say instructional focus, are you meaning instruction curriculum overall, or are you, is there different instructional methods that differentiate the schools?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So tell me about one of the biggest challenges in working in your current position.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But what is your challenge?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We've spoken about some of your successes, but I want to hear how you've been tested. So could you speak about, I'll say, two occasions where you did not succeed in something or where you actually failed and what you learned from it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It could be like an implementation of a program not going well or an interaction with a student's family for something, whatever.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Good. Thank you. Can I ask another one? Sure. Okay. So we've touched a little bit on this. You mentioned this. One of the things that students are presenting with is increasing levels of anxiety. How do you balance the emotional needs of the students while maintaining academic rigor? And can you give me any specific examples how you've handled that in your schools?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A couple of them, but they're short. So just budget. When you did your superintendent training, did you have experience with a particular budget in a particular community during that training?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, just, I didn't know if you worked with a particular mentor in a particular community that did budget with you. I just didn't know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Not during your time in Boston, but when you did your superintendent training classes, did you work with a mentor outside of Boston at all?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Next question is, if you could go to the Board of Education tomorrow and advocate for change, what would you be talking about?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So what other measures would you like to use?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi, Dr. Martelone. I noticed in your resume that there was a year when you went over to the dark side and you worked at the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Could you tell us what brought you there and what you learned during that year and why you left?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Could you speak to a time when you had to address parents about a difficult event that took place in a school that you were overseeing or a change that you had to implement that was unpopular where you had to address parents?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sarusa?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm trying to get more, to get to know you a little bit more. Sure. And so I'd like to know what are the core values that define you in your work and how do they affect the way you do your jobs as an administrator and a leader?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm going to pass over the question I planned at the moment just to be able to follow up on that. I'd like you to speak more specifically to your experience in grant writing. Is there a grant or grants you could tell us about that you identified and followed up with either, you know, with a group of people but that really you consider to be your success?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Was that a grant from the DESC?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: How did you identify that grant?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Russo. Hi, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Dr. Strait, I would like to know what being an educational leader means to you. And have you advocated before the State Board of Education on any issue? Or, or and, if you could tomorrow, what would you like to address them on?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And this took place when I was living in- Just FinCom is financial?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dr. Strait, when we put together the application, I kept on thinking that we really ought to put one of those warning boxes. And the warning box would say that our current superintendent is available 24-7. And he works around the clock, and we can always get him. And he's been on vacation. I've talked to him when he's on vacation, which is a rarity. And frankly, quite honestly, we're just used to that accessibility to our superintendent. So I just want to warn you, OK?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Exactly. So I just want you to understand what our expectation is. Because quite honestly, no joking aside, that really is quite a difficult place to follow on. Having said that, I'd like you to know what you do for fun, and what you do in your way, and how you de-stress.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dr. Perella, decision-making is a two-edged sword. Some situations call for decisiveness right at the start while others involved consensus building. Tell us about a situation where you were decisive and how it worked out for you. Then tell us about the time when you weren't decisive enough and what you learned from it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So John, why don't you speak to some accomplishment that you've done through collaboration and why you particularly see that as successful?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Mr. Russo? Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're welcome. Mr. Russo?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: John, what does being an educational leader mean to you? And have you advocated before the State Board of Education on any issue, or if you could, or and if you could, if you could go before them tomorrow, what would you address them on?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sebastian.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: One of the things that you've done here, and it's easy to, it really wasn't that long ago, but it feels longer ago, was that you oversaw the reconstruction of the science labs. And as superintendent, there's the educational leadership, there's the budget, there's negotiations, and there's also keeping up with the buildings and grounds. What was the most challenging aspect of having a major building project in the building? And what did you learn from the experience?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Now, John, you gave me a perfect segue because in your answer you mentioned anxiety. And the other question I really wanted to ask you tonight was about that. One of the things that students are presenting with is increasing levels of anxiety. How do we balance the emotional needs of students while maintaining academic rigor? And I wondered if you could give me any, obviously because of confidentiality, I want to be very careful, but could you give me examples of how we can do that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van de Kloof. So, you know, I don't have any problem with having a committee of the whole to discuss the payroll questions. I do have a huge problem with the feeling that some wrongdoing, the charge of wrongdoing. So let's, just going to be very clear, I'm going to vote for the meeting because I think it's always appropriate for us to ask questions. But I'm not, there's, I'm going with an open mind to hear explanations, which I believe will be reasonable explanations. and have always been in my, when I've gone and asked specific questions. But having a committee of the whole is, it's no big deal. Why, why not spend yet another night together?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's just great, Jenny. Thank you for all your work and the work, Kathy. You're welcome. That's easy to use. I'm thinking, of course, just that it just makes things so clear and it's great work.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thanks.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to say that it's not been unusual over the years for the school committee to occasionally comment on something that's coming before the city council and vice versa. The city council also comments on, um, stuff that comes beyond us, so I feel comfortable in supporting the resolution. I see the library as an essential element in any community, and I particularly want it to be a beautiful library in mine. And we all know that the library needs some updates. It's not particularly a surprise or a shock to any of us who have been in it, and we want we would like to see improvements. I think in terms of being members of the school committee, it just goes hand in hand with our caring about and dedication to our Medford children. So I appreciate the resolution and I certainly will support it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, again, I just wanted to add my thanks to Mr. Tucci. And also just to say that parents came before us at our last meeting. And it was difficult because we didn't respond to them. We didn't say anything about, I think, After they left, I said, I just want to say I hear your concerns. So we really, we did hear their concerns and took appropriate action. So thank you. And I'm glad the open house went so well. My colleague, Mr. Russo and the mayor, we were, we were off at the superintendent search committee that evening. So I didn't get to go, but I'm glad that it went so well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think that kind of answers part of my question. How much is the McGlynn trip this year?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandiver. Yeah, no, just I think that ultimately taking that step also so that the kids then get to meet each other before they go on to high school, you know, and there will be familiar faces. So clearly that is the progression. I hope the kids and the chaperones have a wonderful time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We kind of like to go.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hands? Ms. Vandekloot. So I too was surprised to hear how long this training was. At my workplace, Winchester Hospital, just up the road, Winchester police came in and did run, hide, fight. And those are the three words that you use, run, hide, fight. And it seemed much more targeted and concise. I personally will be speaking with Officer Convino so I understand the differences. And we might also I don't know if he's planning on coming to your subcommittee meeting, but if not, perhaps he could come to another one. Anyway, just because we've been using Alice because it's kind of been the original catch word, but I'm not sure that's the only approach, whatever. I'm a little puzzled about the time commitment, because it does seem extensive. I also wondered whether Officer Covino has, for Rennheide Fight, we have there's a movie, which is maybe 15 minutes long.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I think if there's a way for the committee to access that video so we can see it too, would be very useful. So I will reach out to him myself to ask my questions around it. But maybe if he could be included.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vandekloot. Yes, I just wanted to ask if you could recall when the deadline for the Connors scholarship is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think that all my questions have been covered. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Before we rush to approve that, I just, I have some questions for my colleague. Um, first of all, and I, uh, Christine, um, I'm not.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is that something you can easily get to us, or is this going to cause a great deal more work?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. But we know what we have a yearly budget. And in that yearly budget, we're given the yearly pay rate. I mean, it sounds as if my colleague is looking for something specific. And if she's looking for something specific, then perhaps it would be wiser to zone down into it too.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vanden Heuvel. I guess I have a concern because I haven't seen this. And I don't feel like there's, we've been doing it this way for many, many, many, many years. Perhaps it's a good thing. But I believe that I want to understand what exactly we would see. I wouldn't want anybody's confidential information now coming to us. So I'm very concerned. So I'm going to table this until our next school committee meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vanderkle. So first, I know that you guys did a lot of work over the past weekends, and I appreciate that. I am a little concerned, whatever, school committee last week also voted that we wanted to set up a parent advisory committee on security. So I want to make sure that we're working, that your group is working in tandem with that. I don't think we've yet appointed anybody, but I just want to make sure. I mean, if We did have any idea who was going to be on that. It would sure make sense for them to attend next Wednesday. Melanie, I do need, as the former curriculum, I do want to point out that you and I had talked many times. And it was really tough to schedule a meeting. And we have emails where back and forth. So I think that we should go ahead now and send it to the curriculum committee again, which now Erin is the head of it. And maybe we'll have better luck this year. But I just need to say in You and I talked many times, and I could show you those e-mails, too. Okay?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Any other questions? I actually concur because I saw the difficulty in trying to do it as a curriculum. The reason why we didn't just remind people was because there's six of us and we each have one subcommittee and then I think in the past it was, well, everybody wanted to be on that subcommittee. We've now already had differentiated with a subcommittee for selection committee, so I actually think that doing a separate committee makes a lot of sense.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. Anthony, thanks for your good work last week. We really appreciate it. We didn't expect anything less from you, though. Thank you. Thank you so much. In terms of the vacation week camps, are we doing another one in April?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I certainly understand that, but it may be that we should look at to see if there's someone else who could do it, since it does fulfill a need in our community at this point. And I was curious, during the winter February vacation, did the students use the pool?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thanks very much. Yeah, of course.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Diane, I have a relationship with one of the Burlington elementary teachers, and that's what really sparked my interest, our long conversations about this. And I do know that she said that The tutors were extremely helpful. But I also, and I'll check back with her, but I wondered whether, is this something you could, could you train any volunteers? Or is it too extensive?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, of course. Of course. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Could you please tell me how many students are signed up to go?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I think it's great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Thank you. While we are under suspension, I wanted to talk about our subcommittee meeting, Mr. Ruggiero. So typically, we send things to subcommittee meetings, but Mr. Ruggiero has proposed that we have a subcommittee meeting on community outreach this Friday. And perhaps I could just ask you to talk about it. I just want to make sure that the rest of the committee knows. I had asked that there be a preliminary meeting. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like timing is. And Mr. Ruggiero, I just want to mention that it needs to be posted. And that means you need to contact the superintendent's office to have that happen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to make sure we officially post it towards our regulations.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Could you announce what the agenda is for the meeting?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay I'm certainly hoping to be there planning to be there, but you know sometimes I would do work in an environment which can be tricky Thank you for the information
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I just want to make sure, though, that we received one report which had the name of a student. And I just want to make sure that it's deducted, because we should not have that information. Also, we do have a protocol for, what's it called, Paul? I can't remember. A protocol when a student says something or is of concern a safety care, and I think that we should remind everybody that that is in existence and in place. If, in fact, a student makes some kind of threat, but the safety care protocol is followed, then while the school committee can be informed, I just, I received one robo-call from a principal, and I wondered how, if nothing was, if there was no reason to be concerned after professionals had assessed the child, and it was an elementary school child, and kids will be kids and say things, that I didn't want to, I think there's a balance between what some would call transparency, and my concern would be heightened I'm just wondering where the line is so it's not too much and it's not inappropriate. And that we're protecting our students appropriately. So I think it's a balance that we need to achieve. I think we probably need a little practice with it. But I do think that we put in place a couple of years ago the safety protocol for assessing situations. And I think that we need to make sure that we're sticking to that. And if nothing is determined, and it was by Elliot, then I don't think that there's a reason to alert every parent that a third grader said something. Because sometimes third graders say something. I mean, they're kids. They're kids. And we have to recognize that, too. In our concern about safety, we also need to be concerned about safety and worried about or realizing the impact on the fact that these are children.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And will you be bringing that to us at our next meeting? Hopefully. We can get it done by then. That would be great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just wanted to add my voice to thanking all of your teachers. I, you know, attend as many concerts as I possibly can. I know Mrs. Kreatz and I and some other members were at the winter concerts and, you know, you listen to the orchestra concert. It is the thing that makes me, I think, so proud. when I can talk to other people and say, yes, all of our kids get to, you know, try out stringed instruments. And then they can do something in fifth grade. And people really are amazed. I mean, I tell them how many people we have in our orchestra. And then the band concert, the winter band concert, it was just blow your socks off. just so I wish everybody had been able to make it. So I really appreciate all the hard work of your teachers and yourself. Thank you very much. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vandekloot? Yeah. I had a question because I understand that, um, the, um, that there's going to be an election or preliminary election and is it the first day of school?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we would have school on September 4th? or school would be in session?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I'm just a little concerned about it. The students grade 1 to 12 go back the 28th, 29th, 30th, then they're off Friday, they're off Monday, and then Tuesday would be the election day. I mean, clearly when we think about concerns about security. So I just, I think we need to think this through and look at that particular date. I don't know if any other members have thought about this yet. I don't want to leave them out of school for, it seems difficult to leave them out of school for another day. So, but I was a little concerned.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We have had school before. And if we have school, people who come in to vote at the schools are segregated from completely? Correct. Correct.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. It's not just one. Um, when do kindergarteners go back to school? Uh, beginning September 5th. Um, beginning September 5th. And the day that we're talking about is September 4th. correct. Have we set the voting machines up in the kindergartners, kindergartens at all at the Brooks? At the Brooks. Yeah, because I mean, if you can think of, is there a way just to isolate? I'm just looking at a way to isolate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think the rest of the calendar, I think that the only question that we have a concern about is September 4th and how to deal with that. I guess for you it impacts the other day, though. Can we hold it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Miss Van der Kloot. Technically, it's supposed to come in by Wednesday, by noon, although I know that there is a certain amount of leeway that's usually granted. But just people need to be aware that our packets are received on Friday, so that it, you know, they can't come in at Friday at 5 and expect it to go out to us in a timely manner.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Mayor Burke. I'm a little bit troubled just how, um, when we just had people before us, we wanted to be clear that we couldn't deliberate on that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But I just wanted to add a sentence. I think that I would have added earlier if I had realized that we're going to walk away at that point. But, um, I just, it just the fact that we have it deliberated on it doesn't mean that we didn't hear the parents and their concerns. And that's an important distinction to make. Certainly we've been C receiving emails. I think that we're, um, that we're, I'm sure that every school committee member, if I can dare to speak for the body, is concerned about this issue and waiting to, we can't make a decision here or whatever, but I think that there's, that I would like to say that I heard them and have heard from parents. And if there is a better solution or whatnot, I'm sure that's something that we might take up at a different point. OK?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh. Motion of approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: First, thank you for everybody who's written to us. No matter what side of the issue you're on, I know that everybody was very upset and that You can disagree with the superintendent's decision, which many of us did, but you still know he is a good man. He has served this community well, and it was important as we figured out what we were trying to do or how we would go forward that we needed both a place where we could begin to mend this community, that we could support our teachers and administrators who serve us every day and we could go forward and also appreciate the fact that the superintendent has served us for 50 years and many of us, you know, really appreciate that. How do you measure a man? Is it a moment of a decision you disagree with? Or is it the totality? As we looked at the decision today, for me, it was the totality. So that's just what I'd like to say.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. Just for clarification, so for this initial step, all we need to do is submit this statement of interest? Correct. We don't need to submit any more detailed report?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So when we say, currently the building has many tiles that have asbestos flooring or many places which, while safe, when it is sealed, our intention would be to replace it, we don't need to give the number of square feet? No, not at this time. To general?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms. Jones? Yes. Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The next month should be clean. Yes. Ms. Van der Kloot? Christina, I read your report, and I think I understand the answer. the public, we had some really cold days in January. And so how has that affected our utility usage?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the question to follow up on Mr. Russo's question really is, is for the students who are in the sixth grade, are we looking at their math scores, the ones who came from the Columbus, are we looking at their math scores and seeing whether any of them need extra tutoring or?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, sorry. OK. Sorry about that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. Could you forward on to the committee members a copy of the flyer highlighting all the benefits students receive from applying for free or reduced lunch?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, I think that's great. I think it would be valuable for us to see. So thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Dr. Perlow, I wanted to thank you. This was a great presentation, and I was very happy I had the opportunity to attend. Apart from the information that was presented on vaping, I also want to mention that I thought it was fantastic that we had students available to act as interpreters that night for people in the audience. And that was just a great, great touch and something we should continue. And even if they weren't utilized, I don't know how much they were utilized that particular night, but the fact that they were available for people who needed translation was terrific. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I hate to say this, but there's a spelling mistake on it. OK. Well, I'm glad you told me today, not tomorrow. So if you go down to the last line where it says notification, The word signatures is spelled wrong.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just had a question. I understand that two teachers were present, teachers Robin Irving and Patty Haas had come forward and spoke about a field trip. I think it was to the Museum of Science, which didn't end up taking place. Or did it end up taking place? No.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just want to make sure that the kids get to go on the field trip. I understand it's a traditional field trip, and the kids are going to the Museum of Science. And I just want to make sure that because of this timing with the paperwork, that they're not held back. And if there's a cost differential that was caused by this, that we look deep into our budget and see if we can help make that go away.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, it was a motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I just wanted to thank Cheryl for all the work that she's done on this and for bringing this again to our attention. This has been something that we talked about the last time. We've done some patching. But it clearly is something, it's an expensive project when we go citywide to all of the schools. And I certainly appreciate her work on this to try to see if some funding could be gotten for it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just a little concerned that we're doing the focus groups. And are there dates and times set up? I mean, how are parents going to know about that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Um, and like for teachers, are they during the day?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: He's going to be around for a couple of days.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. I guess I'm particularly interested in the ones that open to the community members and to parents. That's probably going to be the 15th. That's the evening of the 15th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are we going to have any opportunity for people to come before us and make statements at a school committee meeting?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, no. As part of people, well, a focus group is one way of having discussion. A public hearing is another. So right now, you're sort of thinking about the public hearing. I mean, the focus group says all encompass. And the survey. OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I actually was the one who signed this particular warrant. And every time we go in, There's different groups of bills, and the activities account will say whether a club ordered pizza, whether money is put aside for the senior special day or whatever. So all of the bills are separate, but they're lump-summed in this one account when it reports out to us. However, the secretary, who's now Kathy, of course, will see every bill and sign the lump sum, but she sees every single one that we sign.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the meeting was called to order by myself at seven o'clock. All the school committee members were present. I stated at the beginning that this was elected The organizational meeting was to elect a vice chairperson and a secretary for the year 2018. And I also that this was the only official task of the senior member. Ms. Kreatz, seconded by Mayor Burke, placed the name of Mia Mastone in nomination for the position of vice chairman. The roll call was called, and Mia was universally nominated. And then Ms. Mustone put the name of Kathy Kritz, seconded by Mayor Burke, into nomination for the position of secretary. And she was nominated for that position. So we adjourned the meeting at 7 to 1 under new leadership, and it went great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to thank Cheryl for coming before us. Cheryl, you're great at searching out opportunities to get money for the students at the Robertson. I really appreciate that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. Thank you, Mayor. I just wanted to mention, though, and I'm all for the MASC taking over this. When we voted on it last week, I put it forth. However, I do think that there is a cost incurred, and it's an appropriate cost. I don't think that all of these services are completely free. So since you said free, I just don't want to mislead anybody in that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think he gave us the number around 9,000 or so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to be clear.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. I'm sure we'll have an opportunity later on to congratulate Mrs. DiCarlo and thank her for her work. But I can't let the moment pass. She's been an asset to our community. She's a great lady. And we will certainly need to celebrate her tenure with us and her retirement.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Superintendent. Recently the DESC put out some new, I don't know, they didn't come up with regulations yet, but new discussion about possibilities of having students do work that had been prepared for them so that if we had an elongated time out, there was an option other than tacking on school days at the end or whatever. I haven't read it completely. I was thinking that we would be talking about it. I definitely think, though I understand that it's complex because you need to make sure that all students can access the work that the teachers prepare for them and that is tricky in our community where not everyone necessarily will have access to a computer, but many will have access to phones now. You know, we're in a different age and all the kids that come in to volunteer at the hospital, they're all doing their homework on their phones. So if you're not prepared to talk about that in depth tonight, I think that we should talk about it in a curriculum subcommittee meeting and plan. I see this not so much for the one or two day absence. I see this in the, how to figure out in the event that we have a prolonged week, say a blizzard, that keeps us all home, how we're going to be proactive about this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. So yes, I just wanted to formalize my thought then and along with Erin's. I'd like to ask that the curriculum subcommittee review the recent DESC paper on alternatives for snow days so that we can begin this discussion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to congratulate our representative from the high school, Sebastian Tringali, on his recent acceptance to Tufts University.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It means he'll be nice and close.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. So I have first, the first thing I wanted to suggest or say that it also included all of those booster clubs or athletic support groups as well. I think September 1st is a bad day to pick because it's, you know, off on Labor Day weekend, I think it would make more sense to change it to September 15th or September 30th. I understand that you're in financial support, saying the relative wealth of where they stand. However, I get really uncomfortable, and you and I have had this discussion many times, when you start wanting to sound like, Mr. Superintendent, micromanage who's going to go to what bank and whatever. We can't do that. We just can't do that. We understand. And if you were seeing all of them and you wanted to draw people together and have a discussion, that's be one thing. But I get really uncomfortable with the thought that you're going to tell the Medford Educational Foundation, of which I belong, or a McGlynn PTO member or Columbus whatever, that, well, they can't have that fundraiser because somebody else is doing it. So I just want to put that out there and say, makes me real nervous when you went down that path. And I don't think it's appropriate. I think when you get to number six, expenditures of funds must be done in coordination with the principal slash administration or whatever. Because, for instance, the Medford Educational Foundation, we don't We have a principal sign-off sheet, however, we've been known to work closely with administration to make sure. that we are, in fact, not funding a program that would not be appropriate. And when I spoke up before, I do believe that the Educational Foundation would, in fact, benefit from something. Because we are a 501c3, and I think everybody who is a 501c this, you are required to have bylaws. Now, how formally you play them out is another thing. But somewhere in your organization, at some point, you have had bylaws, because if you're a 501c3, You needed to have that. You needed to specify how the offices worked. So even though, Paul, I understand what you're saying and your concerns, some of that actually is called for by the nonprofit status. Anyway, otherwise than that, I think that we can send it off. But those were some of my initial concerns.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Before you move on, though, I do know that there are members of the Are there any PTGs out there that would like to speak on this topic?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. It would be a shame if this conversation ended with any thought that we're not appreciative of the extraordinarily hard work of our PTOs, PTGs, booster clubs, and any other organization that gives up their time and effort to raise money for our students. I know from experience, I know from my time on the school committee and before that, how hard people work and how often it is a very small group of people in the end who really bust their butt night after night making sure that all of the money is raised that the kids get the opportunities. And so I just think that it's really important. You know, many of you won't remember this and the only two maybe in the room right now might be the superintendent and Diane Caldwell, remember that before I was on the school committee, one of the things that I did was an event called It's Your Night to Shine. And that was a thank you to all the volunteers, all the PTO members who busted their butts, because way back then, as someone who was just beginning in all of this, it was so clear to me that there were a few people who just kept things going. And they were all, blessedly, that it's always somehow worked out that we have a group of parents at each and every school who will take this. And sometimes it's because the void, they see that no one else is there and they step in and they make it happen. So within all of this and this discussion, by putting in something like this, ultimately the desire is not to just oversee and enforce and say you have to do one more thing, but to be helpful, to be positive, and always to say thank you so much for the work that you do.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Mr. Ruggiero, as a new colleague, I want you to know that I have no doubt at all that you meant no harm. You meant to be speaking up for parents, and in fact, were responding to parents' requests. I know that. And I know that you did it thinking that you were doing the very best thing. I have no, absolutely no doubt about that at all. I don't think you meant to be heavy-handed. I don't think you meant to cause this uproar. I don't think so at all. I do think you were inexperienced, and frankly, you learn. Because you see, you know that it's caused great upset. That was very evident the other night. We agree that we've now got some new things that have come out of this, maybe, and maybe that's all for the better. But there were some really hurt feelings. The treasurer has asked for an apology. Saying I'm sorry doesn't cost you anything, and it would help to move on. I understand that you didn't mean to hurt, but frankly, you did. It happened. It's happened to me. I didn't mean to, but it did. And I said, I'm sorry. Sometimes those two little words are just the easiest thing to say if they're heartfelt and meant, because I truly believe, I truly believe that you meant no harm. I look forward to working with you. I look forward to figuring out what it means to be a team. You and I have already had some discussions about personal styles, whatever. And in my view, it is time to move on. But in order for that to happen, you need to say something.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Before we leave tonight, I wanted to bring up one other discussion, which I thought Mr. Ruggiero might. Today, Mr. Ruggiero put online our packet of information, and I think that there was One piece, which I was uncomfortable with, which actually had to do with the ski trip, it didn't have names on it, but if there was names, I wanted that to be posted. I wasn't certain that I wanted everybody in the public to know exactly where the kids were going, what time they were going, whatever, just as a safety thing. I think that it's long been a thought that I know other school committee members share, that some of our documents, rather than having this big stack of papers, could be online for us as well. And so I think that we should take both things together, figure out, there were some questions about afterwards, which people in the public raised, which I certainly wouldn't have thought about. So it was interesting input of saying, how do you best post our information for our meetings? So I'd like to make a motion, maybe in conjunction with Mr. Ruggiero, that we search how we're going to effectively put our documents online, both for the public and also so that we can minimize the amount of paper that we have for our meetings. As a long-term school committee member, I can tell you that I could devote, I mean, whole rooms, buckets fills of these exist, and frankly, it's just way too much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, I made a motion. Do we want to just officialize it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. We'll include that in the amendment.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All please rise and salute our flag. Welcome, Justin.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Mr. Zigny, before you and the students go, first I want to tell you how much I was looking forward to hearing you tonight. So it's made our night. Thank you so very much. I will also tell you it made our night when we went to the orchestra concert at the high school. I don't think you could get another student on that stage. It was unbelievable. As well, myself and some of my colleagues, including the mayor, And Kathy Kreatz, we were able to go to the middle school concert as well. And it's just, I felt so proud. And so proud of our students here. You represent us so well. And it's so magnificent that we have this interest in our music program. And it's just wonderful. So thank you very much. Now, Mr. Zigny, though, I actually happen to have something I have to give you. So if you wouldn't mind coming forward. This is kind of funny, but I just happen to be given a donation of drumsticks. and from someone who was formally connected and did a student internship at Medford High, and he remembers us so fondly, so here's some drumsticks for you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Mrs. DiBenedetto, if I may? Yes. Just so you know, that as secretary, when I sign that, I look through every single one of them to make sure they're proper and in order. And they consistently have been. OK. Thank you. OK, roll call. Roll call for the bills. Please. Mrs. Cugno. Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto. Yes. Mrs. Kreatz. Yes. Mrs. Mustone. Yes. Mr. Scurry. Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot. Yes. Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is none. There is one, but we'll take it under report of committees. You want to do it under report of committees?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So if you would, Mrs. Cugno, I think that tonight it would be appropriate to just quickly say that we met at 6.30 on December 11th. All of us were present, as well as Michael Ruggiero, school committee elect, Paul Rousseau, school committee elect, The superintendent, deputy superintendent, director of curriculum, Bernard Riccadeli, and community members, Jen Graham, Michelle Ciccolo, and Franco Leary. The purpose of the meeting was to establish a process for the selection of the next superintendent, to identify the criteria for selection, to review application forms for candidates, and to initiate a process for selection. The superintendent spoke about different items, going over what our challenges would be, what its job description should be, giving us some information about the MASS, that's Massachusetts Superintendent Organization, salary information, et cetera. The outcome of this meeting was that the mayor appointed a subcommittee. She appointed me as chair, Mrs. Mustone, Mrs. Kreatz, It doesn't say here. Jenny? Jen. What's your name? Jenny Graham. And? Michael. And Paul Rousseau. And Paul Rousseau, sorry about that. And we are going to meet this Thursday, December 21st at 715 up at the high school to carry forward our charge of coming up with a questionnaire and also a information document that could be given out to prospective candidates.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: PM. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We had talked about AM, so it's a good question. All right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. A couple of different things. I just wanted to mention that in our folders, we also received all the other things, all the other plans, adding 15 minutes of math instruction daily. Chromebook practice so that we had a further report which covered additional in-school items that would be addressed. It also, though I just wanted to clarify, and Mr. Superintendent, I know we're being redundant here, but I understand that you're now committed to having a after school tutoring for the math students paid for by the district, because I'm just clarifying that, because earlier there was a rumor. And so I want to put that to rest. And committed to working out transportation, after school transportation. It sounds like so far, financially, you've committed to at least two days a week. Is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. I know that your request would have preferred three. I think two is probably a reasonable place to start. So, okay, that's great. Thank you so much. And I would like to thank you very much from the get-go. You've been very, very concerned about this issue, Maureen, and I thank you for coming forth and addressing us. And see, I told you it'd be easy. The other thing, too, is, though, I think that when I went and first met Maureen at the math night, one of the things that just stood out so much that night was when I had a great discussion with some of the teachers, and they were telling me about all the different things our math program could do, but then admitted that not every student had access to that at home. So by providing this after school time, this gives them an opportunity to utilize those, our math program to the full. So thank you very much, Mr. Superintendent, and thank you, Maureen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call. OK. So on the motion, Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Absolutely. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, so I think tonight we've seen, you know, heard about three different projects, which are very different, and I thank you so much for coming forward and telling us about your project, and girls also, about your projects. When you look at the project portfolio that the school committee members received, the scope of the projects is really just amazing. And it makes me, again, feel so very proud. Because here we have kids coming up with projects, all sorts of different projects. What a wonderful idea to have role models come in and speak to our students and for you to be interested in that. And then, you know, I read another one, one of our students, and I suspect we'll hear from her gladly so, is concerned about the styrofoam that we use for trays. And I could go through each one because there are so many positive, wonderful projects that kids came up with. And not just came up with, but then went forward and said, we're going to do that. We're going to make a difference. And I think that you've already made a difference. And I'm so proud that you're making a difference in Medford. So thank you very, very much. And I'm just grateful that the CCSR has flourished and taken off, especially. And I know that the leadership has been extraordinarily positive and helpful in this. And so I thank them as well. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vander Kloof? So just a clarification. On the front page, you say we'll cap the charges at three meals. for middle and high school students and five for elementary. But then if I understand it, they can still take a regular meal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just trying to figure out, first of all, in terms of the alternate lunch, are cheese sandwiches an option for all the time for everybody?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, because one of the things that we worked hard is not to signal students out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So three days in a row is pretty short time, is what I'm concerned about. And I'm just thinking about for a family who's got a sort of short-term crisis, I mean... In regard to
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So. Well, you know, obviously my concern is for the student who might have not yet signed up for reduced price lunch or something, but all of a sudden there's a crisis. And I just wouldn't want them to be in any way signaled out. This is consistent, you say, with other school districts? And we have to have- We have to have a charge policy, yes. Well, I'll be curious, yeah, what other people think about it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. So I think that having some threshold where the account is followed up on, that's not a problem for me. I definitely think that all of a sudden the kid goes through the line and they get a different meal is a problem for me. I would rather them still be able to take their regular meal. You know what? I mean, because it still shows up, and there's still, the follow-up would still be necessary, right? Yes, they would be in a negative capacity going through the line. I mean, it says here, I mean, because there's a punishment instated in here. The child will be allowed to take a meal. And that meal will be continued to be charged to the account at the standard lunch rate based on their meal benefit. So if the meal is three and a quarter, even though they're getting a cheese sandwich rather than chicken nuggets, they're being charged the same three and a quarter. To me, there is a punishment there, and I'm not comfortable with that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I understand that it's important for us to have some thresholds so that parents are contacted. And I understand that the alternative lunch is meets the same criteria, but I'm not comfortable with that. So I'm comfortable with saying, OK, flag the account. We need to talk to the parents. That's fine. That makes sense. But I'm not comfortable with changing the lunch for the student. That just doesn't sit well with me.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just want to thank Dr. Perella for being proactive on this issue. I think it's extremely important. I mean, I remember when vaping was considered to be healthier than cigarette smoking. And so the idea was that you were stepping down if you were vaping. And clearly when you presented the last time and mentioned jeweling and the amount of nicotine, I was shocked. And clearly this has taken on a new concern for us. So thank you very much. You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. So I've been thinking about this for the last couple of weeks and really wondering what to say to my esteemed colleagues who are leaving us. First, I'm going to turn to Robert Emmett Scurry, who's been sitting next to me for an awfully long time. We've shared many different instances, but amongst our colleagues from the back, and some of these names won't mean anything to some of you, but some of them will mean a great deal to others. So we sat with Bill Brady, Lena DiGiantomaso, the esteemed Fred Pompeo, Mary Alabirdy, Carol Sharpton, Fred Lasky, Jack the Bulldog Buckley, Ed Nolan, Ron Vining, Beth Fuller, Sharon Guzik, Bill O'Keefe, the Honorable Mike McGlynn, and now our current colleagues, Erin, Mia, Kathy, Anne Marie, and of course, Mayor Burke. I don't know if I got everybody, but I think I did. And through that, we've had a lot of different experiences. With Lena, we were climbing on roofs of buildings to check out the roofs. And then we had many, many long evenings as we prepared for building new schools. And I suspect, Bob, like me, your proudest moments come when you go see your name on those plaques in the new schools, because those were incredible, an incredible period of time. Bob, you and I haven't always gotten along. We're not always on the same page, but I know and have never doubted that your heart is in the right place. And this position here and your commitment to Medford and to the students of Medford has meant everything to you and that you have given a great deal of time and energy to the city of Medford and the children of Medford and our families. So colleague.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Almost four decades. Colleague, I'm not quite sure what it's going to be like sitting here without you, and I'm going to miss you, but I know that you will take your time and commitment and energy working on behalf of students in Medford will continue. So thank you very much for your service. Now, Mrs. Cugno, you've not been here quite as long as Mr. Scurry, but your impact has been huge over the last, is it 12? 12 years. And in that time, we also got to see your family grow up. And that was pretty cool. So because those boys, they were in elementary school way back when, and now they're in college or beyond. And it's really been quite an amazing ride, Anne Marie, hasn't it? Don't do this. So in that ride, one has to say, I mean, through all of the different things, of course, like with Mr. Scurry, the building of the new schools was just an amazing project. And so many meetings, so many, so many meetings that we spent. talking about the bigger picture and then the small picture. And the small picture was the color of the paint, the location of the switches, and then the bigger issues of equity, which was so, so, so important to us. And you were part of that. You were a very big part of that. And it fueled your becoming a school committee member. And we were all grateful for that. You went on, though, to be very active on the state level, first by becoming the head of the division two for the MASC, Massachusetts Association of School Committee, and then working your way up to an incredible year as being president of the MASC and representing Medford. I quite honestly believe that, sorry, Most of my colleagues here don't really realize what you did during the course of that period of time. But I was fortunate to sit on the board with Anne-Marie and be able to experience her leadership and the amount of work and travel that it took over that time. So Anne-Marie, maybe, luckily, my voice is giving out. So I just want to thank you as a friend and as a colleague. Thank you for your time and effort. And I know that you will be continuing to give your heart and your love to the city of Medford.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha, present. Mrs. DiDenedetto, present. Mrs. Kress, present. Mrs. Mustone, here. Mr. Skerry, present. Mrs. Vanderbilt, present. They have worked.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Also present is our student group, just in time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Mr. Zigny, before you and the students go, first I want to tell you how much I was looking forward to hearing you tonight. So it's made our night. Thank you so very much. I will also tell you it made our night when we went to the orchestra concert at the high school. I don't think you could get another student on that stage. It was unbelievable. As well, myself and some of my colleagues, including the mayor and Kathy Kreatz, we were able to go to the middle school concert as well. And it's just, I felt so proud. And so proud of our students here. You represent us so well. And it's so magnificent that we have this interest in our music program. And it's just wonderful. So thank you very much. Now, Mr. Zigny, though, I actually happen to have something I have to give you. So if you wouldn't mind coming forward. This is kind of funny, but I just happen to be given a donation of drumsticks. from someone who was formally connected and did a student internship at Medford High, and he remembers us so fondly, so here's some drumsticks for you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Correct. OK. Mrs. DiBenedetto, if I may? Yes. Just so you know, that as secretary, when I sign that, I look through every single one of them to make sure they're proper and in order. And they consistently have been. OK. Thank you. OK, roll call. Roll call for the bills. Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Vanderkoop? Yes. Mayor Burke? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is none. There is one, but we'll take it under report of committees. You want to do it under report of committees?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So if you would, Mrs. Cugno, I think that tonight it would be appropriate to just quickly say that we met at 6.30 on December 11th. All of us were present, as well as Michael Ruggiero, school committee elect, Paul Rousseau, school committee elect, the superintendent, deputy superintendent, Director of Curriculum, Bernadette Riccadeli, and community members Jen Graham, Michelle Ciccolo, and Franco Leary. The purpose of the meeting was to establish a process for the selection of the next superintendent, to identify the criteria for selection, to review application forms for candidates, and to initiate a process for selection. The superintendent spoke about different items, going over what our challenges would be, what its job description should be, giving us some information about the MASS, that's Massachusetts Superintendent Organization, salary information, et cetera. The outcome of this meeting was that the mayor appointed a subcommittee. She appointed me as chair, Mrs. Mustone, Mrs. Kreatz, It doesn't say here. Jenny. Jen. Jenny. And. Michael. No, and Paul Rousseau. Sorry about that. And we are going to meet this Thursday, December 21st at 715 up at the high school to carry forward our charge of coming up with a questionnaire and also a information document that could be given out to prospective candidates.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We had talked about a.m. so it's a good question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, a couple of different things. I just wanted to mention that in our Folders we also received all the other things which are all the other plans adding 15 minutes of math instruction daily And Chromebook practice so that we had a further report which covered additional in school items That would be addressed It also though, I just wanted to clarify. And Mr. Superintendent, I know we're being redundant here, but I understand that you're now committed to having a after school tutoring for the math students paid for by the district, because I'm just clarifying that, because earlier there was a rumor. And so I want to put that to rest. and committed to working out transportation, after school transportation, it sounds like so far, financially, you've committed to at least two days a week. Is that correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. I know that your request would have preferred three. I think two is probably a reasonable place to start. OK, that's great. Thank you so much. And I would like to thank you very much from the get-go. You've been very, very concerned about this issue, Maureen. And I thank you for coming forth and addressing us. And see, I told you it'd be easy. The other thing, too, is, though, I think that, When I went and first met Maureen at the math night, one of the things that just stood out so much that night was when I had a great discussion with some of the teachers. And they were telling me about all the different things our math program could do, but then admitted that not every student had access to that at home. So by providing this after school time, this gives them an opportunity to utilize our math program to the full. So thank you very much, Mr. Superintendent, and thank you, Maureen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call. OK. So on the motion, Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Absolutely. Mrs. Koretz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion for approval. Motion to approve. Second. Yes. Roll call vote, please. Mr. Scurry will be speaking first.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call, please. Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Vander Kloof? Yes. Mayor Berger?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, so I think tonight we've heard about three different projects, which are very different. And I thank you so much for coming forward and telling us about your project, and girls also, about your projects. When you look at the project portfolio that the school committee members received, the scope of the projects is really just amazing. It makes me, again, feel so very proud because here we have kids coming up with projects, all sorts of different projects. What a wonderful idea to have role models come in and speak to our students and for you to be interested in that. You know, I read another one, one of our students, and I suspect we'll hear from her gladly so, is concerned about the styrofoam that we use for trays. And I could go through each one because there were so many positive, wonderful projects that kids came up with, and not just came up with, but then went forward and said, we're going to do that. We're going to make a difference. And I think that you've already made a difference. And I'm so proud that you're making a difference in Medford. So thank you very, very much. And I'm just grateful that the CCSR has flourished and taken off, especially. And I know that the leadership has been extraordinarily positive and helpful in this. And so I thank them as well. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So just a clarification. On the front page, you say we'll cap the charges at three meals for middle and high school students and five for elementary. But then if I understand it, they can still take a regular meal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just trying to figure out, first of all, in terms of the alternate lunch, are cheese sandwiches An option for all the time for everybody?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, because one of the things that we worked hard is not to signal students out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So three days in a row is pretty short time. is what I'm concerned about. And I'm just thinking about for a family who's got a sort of short-term crisis, I mean...
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, you know, obviously my concern is for the student who might have not yet signed up for a reduced price lunch or something, but all of a sudden there's a crisis. And I just wouldn't want them to be in any way signaled out. This is consistent, you say, with other school districts? And we have to have? We have to have a charge policy, yes. Well, I'll be curious what other people think about it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. So I think that having some threshold where the account is followed up on, that's not a problem for me. I definitely think that all of a sudden the kid goes through the line and they get a different meal is a problem for me. I would rather them still be able to take the regular meal. I mean, because it still shows up. The follow-up would still be necessary, right?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, it says here, I mean, because there's a punishment instated in here. The child will be allowed to take a meal, and that meal will continue to be charged to the account at the standard lunch rate based on their meal benefit. So if the meal is three and a quarter, even though they're getting a cheese sandwich rather than chicken nuggets, they're being charged the same three and a quarter. To me, there is a punishment there, and I'm not comfortable with that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I understand that it's important for us to have some thresholds so that parents are contacted. And I understand that the alternative lunch meets the same criteria. But I'm not comfortable with that. Substitution. Don't substitute. So I'm comfortable with saying, OK, flag the account. We need to talk to the parents. That's fine. That makes sense. But I'm not comfortable with changing the lunch for the student. That just doesn't sit well with me.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van Der Poot? Yes, I just wanted to thank Dr. Perella for being proactive on this issue. I think it's extremely important. I mean, I remember when vaping was considered to be healthier than cigarette smoking. And so the idea was that you were stepping down if you were vaping. Clearly, when you presented the last time and mentioned jeweling and the amount of nicotine, I was shocked. And clearly, this has taken on a new concern for us. So thank you very much. You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. Thank you very much. So I've been thinking about this for the last couple of weeks and really wondering what to say to my esteemed colleagues who are leaving us. First, I'm going to turn to Robert Emmett Scurry, who's been sitting next to me for an awfully long time. We've shared many different instances, but amongst our colleagues from the back, and some of these names won't mean anything to some of you, but some of them will mean a great deal to others. So we sat with Bill Brady, Lena DiGiantomaso, the esteemed Fred Pompeo, Mary Alabirdy, Carol Sharpton, Fred Lasky, Jack the Bulldog Buckley, Ed Nolan, Ron Vining, Beth Fuller, Sharon Guzik, Bill O'Keefe, the Honorable Mike McGlynn, and now our current colleagues, Erin, Mia, Kathy, Anne Marie, and of course Mayor Burke. I don't know if I got everybody, but I think I did. And through that, we've had a lot of different experiences. With Lena, we were climbing on roofs of buildings to check out the roofs. And then we had many, many long evenings as we prepared for building new schools. And I suspect, Bob, like me, your proudest moments come when you go see your name on those plaques in the new schools, because those were incredible, an incredible period of time. Bob, you and I haven't always gotten along. We're not always on the same page. But I know and have never doubted that your heart is in the right place. And this position here and your commitment to Medford and to the students of Medford has meant everything to you and that you have given a great deal of time and energy to the city of Medford and the children of Medford and our families. So colleague. Almost four decades. Almost four decades. Colleague, I'm not quite sure what it's going to be like sitting here without you, and I'm going to miss you. But I know that you will take your time and commitment and energy. Working on behalf of students in Medford will continue. So thank you very much for your service. And now, Mrs. Cugno, you've not been here quite as long as Mr. Scurry, but your impact has been huge over the last, is it 12? 12 years. 12 years. And in that time, we also got to see your family grow up. And that was pretty cool. So because those boys, they were in elementary school way back when, and now they're in college or beyond. And it's really been quite an amazing ride, Anne Marie, hasn't it? Don't do this. I have to. OK. So in that ride, one has to say, I mean, through all of the different things, of course, like with Mr. Skerry, the building of the new schools was just an amazing project. And so many meetings, so many, so many meetings that we spent talking about the bigger picture and then the small picture. And the small picture was the color of the paint, the location of the switches, and then the bigger issues of equity, which was so, so, so important to us. And you were part of that. You were a very big part of that. And it fueled your becoming a school committee member. And we were all grateful for that. You went on, though, to be very active on the state level. First by becoming the head of division two for the MASC, Massachusetts Association of School Committee, and then working your way up to an incredible year as being president of the MASC and representing Medford. I quite honestly believe that, sorry, most of my colleagues here don't really realize what you did during the course of that period of time. But I was fortunate to sit on the board with Anne-Marie and be able to experience her leadership and the amount of work and travel that it took over that time. So Anne-Marie, maybe luckily my voice is giving out. So I just want to thank you as a friend and as a colleague. Thank you for your time and effort. And I know that you will be continuing to give your heart and your love to the city of Medford.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. DiBenedetto is absent. Mrs. Kreatz is here. You're sorry? Yeah. Mrs. Mustone on her way. Mr. Scurry present. Mrs. Van der Kloot present. Mayor Burke present. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God indivisible
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kreatz.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno is absent. Mrs. DiBenedetto is absent. Mrs. Kreatz? Here. Ms. Mustone is absent. They're all on their way. Mr. Scurry?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto is absent. Ms. Kreatz. Yes. Ms. Mustone, on her way. Mr. Skerry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Van der Kloot. Yes. Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is none. Is it your wish that I should present them? Okay. So this was the committee of the whole of November 13th. I don't know. Do we need to hear me? Okay. And present at the meeting were Mayor Burke, Vice Chair Anne Marie Cuno, Arenda Benedetto, Kathy Kreatz, Mia Mustone, Robert Scurry and myself. Also attending was Michael Ruggiero and Paul Rousseau, school committee members elect. Also present were the following, Deputy Superintendent Beverly Nelson, Assistant Superintendent Diane Caldwell, Director of Pupil Services Kathleen Madaglio, Director of Curriculum Bernadette Director of Finance and Administration, Kirsteen Patterson. Director of Foreign Language, Rita DeCarlo. Supervisor of Health Services, Tony Vento. Assistant Athletic Director, Rachel Curry. Headmaster, John Pirella. Principal, Paul DeLeva. Principal, Jacob Edwards. Assistant Principal, Nick Tucci. Athletic Trainer, Tanya Cashman. Tim Zitt. Registrar, Curtis Tudin, and other community members, including Tammy Simonotis, Marie Petrides, Angela Moore, David Lu, Melanie McLaughlin, Tanya Sullivan, and Jameel Webb Davis. Transcript recorder Miranda Wilson was also in attendance. The meeting was called to discuss school brains, the field trip policy, follow up on student concussions, and report on the North Medford bus. It was a very substantial meeting, went on for hours. I just added that. Superintendent Dawson made the following remarks. The evenings, and by the way, sorry, there was a mistake. It should be Bernadette Riccadeli. So we addressed the four different issues. And the first item was the report of the North Medford bus capacity and ridership. Director of Administration and Finance, Christine Patterson, gave this report and it's attached. And principal, Tucci verified the report. There are two buses coming from North Medford in the morning, and in the afternoon, there are between 45 to 50 riders daily, which is within its capacity. At this time, there's no need to add another bus. Administration will keep the committee informed as demand increases. The next item was student concussions. We talked about this at length. As part of our discussions, parent Tammy Simonotis spoke of her son's experience at Beverly High School. She asserted that her son was injured during a JV soccer game and that there was inadequate trainer medical coverage by the Beverly staff. She believes that the Beverly schools did not have a certified trainer at the game. Her son suffered a head injury, chipped teeth, and nosebleeds. The concern focused upon safety at away games. Members of our staff spoke with the athletic director at Beverly, but really haven't received any more news. Mrs. Simone was pleased with how Medford handles injuries, but was very upset at the Beverly response. Concern was particularly high because the game was allowed to go on after the injury took place. The superintendent promised that he will be conferring with the MIAA regarding this matter. The next item under discussion was the field trip policy, and Administrators Paul DeLiva, Tony Vento, and Kathy Medaglio contributed comments during the discussions. CPAC Chairperson Melanie McLaughlin raised equity issues about the policy and commented that CPAC should have been consulted as the policy was formulated. There was a discussion about the annual trip to New York by the Andrew School and the questions about deadlines. And among the 90 students who attended, there were 19 students who either had an IEP or 504 plan, and this was 19% of the participants. If we had added another bus, it would have cost approximately 7,500 and would not have made the trip doable. Ms. McLaughlin asserted that the trip excluded students with disabilities and that every trip should be planned to serve all interested students. The issue raised several points. Can field trips be planned with application deadlines if those deadlines are applicable to all students? Should field trips be limited if the economics cannot be balanced? And should the cost of medical services be shared by all participants or subsidized by the school system? After continued discussion, the policy was tabled. Administrators will bring forward a revised policy that addresses the issues. The final issue of the evening was school brains. Headmaster Perella and Data Information Specialist Registrar Curtis Tudin gave us a report. The headmaster reported that changes had been made to address the GPA concerns raised during the spring by Mr. David Lu. Mr. Tudin provided a chart that showed the increase in usage by parents and teachers. More will be done going forward. This is a work in progress, but it is moving forward. Mr. Liu was still skeptical about the accuracy of the reporting system. He revisited his concerns from last spring. Administrators asserted that the changes would work. The school committee asked to be informed as the year progressed. The meeting was adjourned at 10.05. Respectfully submitted, Paulette Vanderkoot, Secretary.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I can give it to you afterwards. I guess that would raise the question to me is if our kids are playing and a student got hurt, why wasn't our student cared for by the trainer who was there?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And if the student, I believe the parent, told us that the student was bleeding, so why would the, I mean, we already talked about why didn't the referee stop the game?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, but we do have the student who this happened to, and we could have a follow-up with the student.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: okay so we'll give you that we'll give you that report I noticed that the Tufts alternative school has a very low participation yeah this really surprised me because I would think it would almost be the natural environment for where kids would be coming in and might pick up some breakfast at school. Do you have any insight into that number?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the other thing I noticed is most of the schools we see an increase between September and October. There was only one school where there was a slight decline and I'm just want to make sure that we we keep on looking at these numbers because I wouldn't want there to be any stigma attached to kids going in for breakfast. That's why I think the classroom is environment really is ideal. And if it works at the Columbus, maybe if we could talk to some of the principals and ask another one to try it for a month and see how it goes, just to see what kind of participation we have then.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to make a motion to suspend the order of business so that we can take up the report on student survey on substance abuse.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vander Kloof. Penny, last spring I was able to attend, and I don't remember the title of it, but the Night of Remembrance for those who had died of opiate deaths, related deaths. And one of the things, and it was a very powerful presentation, but there were two speakers that particularly impacted me. They were both students who had previously attended Medford High. And one of the things that they said was they both said they actually were pretty good kids here. They were, you know, were popular. They were, you know, kids who were not involved, particularly with drugs or alcohol at that time. And one of my biggest concerns is, I think we're doing good work laying a positive foundation here, but I'm totally worried about that transition off to college. And I'm not sure, you just mentioned some posters, how to help a friend. And we see these incredible stories of the Fratt brothers. who are drinking too much and then let their frat brother die. And that's where I'm wondering, our last, we're touching the kids at 10th grade. I don't know whether we're discussing at that point, hey, when you get to college, these are things to expect. I'm just concerned about that transition to college and loneliness too. For some kids, when they go off, we put so much, hey, we're going to college and then all of a sudden they get there and it's kind of a little lonely sometimes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Also, I just wondered, those two speakers who were there that night, have they come and spoken? I know that they both expressed willingness to me and others to come and talk directly to students, and I've wondered if you might. I'm sure you have the names, and they certainly expressed their willingness to me, and I think that we might, it might be valuable.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Betty can give you more stats. Can I follow up on that? But actually, I wondered, I think that one in our report, that one stat about one jewel can have whatever it was, one jewel contains as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes. It's just so striking that it is time for us. We have a graphics arts department. We can get some posters made up. I think that that would be incredibly valuable to right away get out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ms. Vander Kloof. Yes, no, I just wondered if we can also, I don't know whether I should make it as a form of a motion, but maybe we could talk to the graphic arts department and get some posters made.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Christina, I had one question. Could you please explain what you mean by we are reclassifying payroll codes to reflect correct budget lines?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so it doesn't mean that somebody who was added to the business office or transferred in the role was given different classification?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. Ms. Vandekloot. So Mr. Texer, are you thinking that we would pilot a program in Portuguese for next school year?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay so and at Medford high school say for the Portuguese students level one and level two would be those students who were certainly level one would be the students who were just coming to us and level two they might have been with us for?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The other question, which certainly is to be addressed to you, but a little bit different, is that we changed significantly this year when we split some programs between the Roberts and the Brooks. How is that working out?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I was just curious, I think one of the concerns had to do with siblings and the ability of siblings to oversee their, you know, sisters and brothers.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so at some point I'd like to ask for a report on how that's worked out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: uh... i'm happy to take any any questions uh... thank you bernadette so of the uh... corrections and changes that you've made i've noted that all the ones that i particularly had brought up the taking care of that of course now being said is my eyes lit on another uh... which I think we need to amend. So if you give me a second so I can find it. It has to do with the notification for approval or disapproval of the field trip. And it is on page four, section three B. It reads right now, all school sponsored trips which involve overnight travel must receive prior approval of the superintendent and a vote by the Medford School Committee six months prior to the trip. And I have to say, I know that that's totally unrealistic. I think that when we're thinking about it, we're thinking about all-schools concert trips, which involve overnight out-of-country travel. So that would be when the kids are going off to Spain or Italy or whatever, that that time frame of six months is what we would be expecting or looking for. But we all know that there have been other overnight trips, even including, you know, the SkillsUSA program is an overnight trip. We've had kids go to the Ethics Bowl was an overnight trip. Those things, there was no time to give six months. It's not realistic to have our policy say six months. So I think we need a sentence which say, For other field trips, you know, for other overnight trips, the school committee will be brought to the school committee for their approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Using as timely, you know, I mean, it depends on the timeframe.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, prior to the trip. But I mean, it has to be reasonable. We really don't like the last minute ones that, I mean, there's a last minute one because there's an opportunity that's last minute. And there's a last minute one because nobody got around to telling us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, there is a clause which allows the superintendent to approve a trip if we don't have a meeting. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But again, I think the first sentence needs to say overnight out of country. Okay. Travel. And then the second sentence need to say other, I'm just trying to think. Other trips involving overnight travel must be approved by the school committee within an appropriate time frame. I think we're gonna need to leave it a little bit unclear. Unless someone else has a better wording.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So you're saying all school sponsored trips which involve overnight travel must receive prior approval of the superintendent and a vote of the Medford School Committee prior to payment.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May I ask one question? You have the samples ready? Is there any concern about tabling this piece of it at this point? Is it gonna hold anything up in terms of? We have an amendment. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, Erin, yes. No, Erin wants to, what I was just asking was for clarification, because Erin wants to table it at right now and hold it until we have all of it together. I just asked whether there was any problem with that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There's a motion on the floor, Ms. Vanden Heuvel. So you're gonna kill me, but I'm going back to this line about approval. And you just said something, you said that what happened in the past is that teachers started advertising to the kids that they were gonna go on this, and they got everybody all excited, and they might even start raising money, and that has nothing to do with payment. So if we're saying that when we want to approve the trip, if you're waiting, saying, well, we only need to approve it with payment, that means that teacher can already be advertising it and they can be raising money. Payment is not the word that you want there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So this is page four, number three.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I didn't suggest payment, someone else did. I did. Okay, and I suggested that what we were doing was saying that teacher was going out of the country, the school committee wanted six months notice. I think if there's an overnight trip, within the United States that we want two months notice, maybe three months notice. Okay, I'm saying, and then I'm putting in a clause and saying, if an opportunity arises for students that is, you know, underneath this timeframe, that approval can be given by the superintendent with notification to the school committee. I mean, that's that's how I would line it out now, because payment, I think, is I think payment is arbitrary.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So just recently, we had the Italian. Right. Come to New York opportunities to go to New York.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, that was being funded. I mean, someone else.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We had a new administrator.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So let me just ask the committee, if we're talking about foreign trips out of country to Italy, to Honduras, wherever it is, how much time does the committee want to know in advance to approve that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: 90 days, here it said six months.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So I think you should do three months, because I think... Wait, the six months was for foreign travel, okay? If you're saying just a general blanket, and the kids are going to Cape Cod, we're not asking for six months time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Mrs. Benedetto. All right, Mrs. Cress. Yes. Mrs. Stone. Yes. Mr. Scurry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Van der Kloot. Yes. Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cuno is on her way. Mrs. DiBenedetto is absent. Mrs. Kreatz is here. You're sorry? Yeah. Okay. Ms. Mustone on her way. Mr. Scurry? Present. Mrs. Van der Kloot present. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto is absent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Ms. Mustone is on her way. Mr. Skerry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is none.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vanderpool. Is it your wish that I should present them? If you wanted to summarize it. OK. So this was the Committee of the Whole of November 13th. I don't know, do we need to? Can you hear me? OK. Hold tight. And present at the meeting were Mayor Burke, Vice Chair Anne Marie Cuno, Arenda Benedetto, Kathy Kreatz, Mia Mastone, Robert Scurry, and myself. Also attending was Michael Ruggiero and Paul Rousseau, school committee members elect. Also present were the following, Deputy Superintendent Beverly Nelson, Assistant Superintendent Diane Caldwell, Director of Pupil Services Kathleen Medaglio, Director of Curriculum Bernadette Scurry, uh, Director of Finance and Administration, Kirsteen Patterson, Director of Foreign Language, Rita DeCarlo, Supervisor of Health Services, Tony Vento, Assistant Athletic Director, Rachel Curry, um, Headmaster, John Perrella, Principal, Paul DeLeva, Principal Jacob Edwards, Assistant Principal, Nick Tucci, Athletic Trainer, Tanya Cashman, Tim Zitt, Registrar, Curtis Tudin, and other community members, including Tammy Simenotis, uh, Marie Petrides, Angela Moore, David Lu, Melanie McLaughlin, Tanya Sullivan, and Jameel Webb Davis. Transcript recorder Miranda Wilson was also in attendance. Um, the mayor, uh, the, the meeting was called, uh, to discuss school brains, the field trip policy, follow up on student concussions, and report on the North Medford bus. It was a very substantial meeting, went on for hours. I just added that. Superintendent Dawson made the following remarks. The evenings, and by the way, sorry, there was a mistake. It should be Bernadette Riccadeli. So we addressed the four different issues. And the first item was the report of the North Medford bus capacity and ridership. Director of administration and finance, Christine Patterson, gave this report, and it's attached. uh, Tucci verified the report. There are two buses coming from North Medford in the morning, um, and in the afternoon there are between 45 to 50 riders daily with each, which is within its capacity. At this time there's no need to add another bus. Administration will Keep the committee informed as demand increases. The next item was student concussions. We talked about this at length. As part of our discussions, parent Tammy Simonotis spoke of her son's experience at Beverly High School. She asserted that her son was injured during a JV soccer game and that there was inadequate trainer medical coverage by the Beverly staff. She believes that the Beverly Schools did not have a certified trainer at the game. Her son suffered a head injury, chipped teeth, and nosebleeds. Her concern focused upon safety at away games. Members of our staff spoke with the athletic director at Beverly, but really haven't received any more news. Mrs. Simone was pleased with how Medford handles injuries, but was very upset at the Beverly response. Concern was particularly high because the game was allowed to go on after the injury took place. The superintendent promised that he will be conferring with the MIAA regarding this matter. The next item under discussion was the field trip policy and administrators Paul DeLiva, Tony Vento, and Kathy Medaglio contributed comments during the discussions. CPAC chairperson Melanie McLaughlin raised equity issues about the policy and commented that CPAC should have been consulted as the policy was formulated. There was a discussion about the annual trip to New York by the Andrew School and the questions about deadlines. Among the 90 students who attended, there were 19 students who either had an IEP or 504 plan, and this was 19% of the participants. If we had added another bus, it would have cost approximately $7,500 and would not have made the trip doable. Ms. McLaughlin asserted that the trip excluded students with disabilities and that every trip should be planned to serve all interested students. The issue raised several points. Can field trips be planned with application deadlines if those deadlines are applicable to all students? Should field trips be limited if the economics cannot be balanced? And should the cost of medical services be shared by all participants or subsidized by the school system? After continued discussion, the policy was tabled. Administrators will bring forward a revised policy that addresses the issues. The final issue of the evening was school brains. Headmaster Perrella and Data Information Specialist Registrar Curtis Tudin gave us a report. The headmaster reported that changes had been made to address the GPA concerns raised during the spring by Mr. David Lu. Mr. Tudin provided a chart that showed the increase in usage by parents and teachers. More will be done going forward. This is a work in progress, but it is moving forward. Mr. Liu was still skeptical about the accuracy of the reporting system. He revisited his concerns from last spring. Administrators asserted that the changes would work. The school committee asked to be informed as the year progressed. The meeting was adjourned at 10.05. Respectfully submitted, Paulette Van der Kloot, secretary.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Brewer. I guess that would raise the question to me is if our kids are playing, um, and a student got hurt, why wasn't our, why wasn't our student cared for by the trainer who was there? I mean.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And if the student, I believe the parent, told us that the student was bleeding, so why would the, I mean, we already talked about why didn't the referee stop the game.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. But we do have the student who this happened to. Right. And we could have a follow-up with the student.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I noticed that the Tufts Alternative School has a very low participation. Yes. And this really surprised me because I would think it would almost be the natural environment where kids would be coming in and might pick up some breakfast at school. Do you have any insight into that number?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the other thing I noticed is most of the schools, we see an increase between September and October. There was only one school where there was a slight decline. And I just want to make sure that we keep on looking at these numbers because I wouldn't want there to be any stigma attached to kids going in for breakfast. That's why I think the classroom environment really is ideal. And, you know, sort of if it works at the Columbus, you know, maybe if we could talk with some of the principals and ask another one to try it for a month and see how it goes, just to see what kind of participation we have then.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to make a motion to suspend the order of business so that we can take up the report on student survey on substance abuse.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. Ms. Van der Kloot. Honey, last spring I was able to attend, and I don't remember the title of it, but the Night of Remembrance. for those who had died of opiate-related deaths. And one of the things, and it was a very powerful presentation, but there were two speakers that particularly impacted me. They were both students who had previously attended Medford High. And one of the things that they said was they both said they actually were pretty good kids here. you know, were popular. They were, you know, kids who were not involved, particularly with drugs or alcohol at that time. And one of my biggest concerns is, I think we're doing good work laying a positive foundation here. But I'm totally worried about that transition off topology. And I'm not sure, you just mentioned some posters, how to help a friend. And you know, we see these incredible stories of, you know, the Fratt brothers who, you know, are drinking too much and then let their Fratt brother die. You know, and that's where I'm wondering, our last We're touching the kids at 10th grade. I don't know whether we're discussing at that point, hey, when you get to college, these are things to expect, you know. I'm just concerned about that transition to college and loneliness, too. For some kids, when they go off, we put so much, hey, we're going to college, and then all of a sudden they get there, and it's kind of a little lonely sometimes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Also, I just wondered, those two speakers who were there that night, have they come and spoken? I know that they both expressed willingness to me or to others to come and talk directly to students, and I've wondered if you might. I haven't gotten anything. I'm sure you have the names, and they certainly expressed their willingness to me, and I think that we might, it might be valuable.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I follow up on that? Actually, I wondered, I think that one in our report, that one stat about one jewel couldn't have, whatever it was, contains as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes. It's just so striking that it is time for us. We have a graphics arts department. We can get some posters made up. I think that that would be incredibly valuable to right away get out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ms. Vander Kloof. Yes. No, I just wondered if we can also, I don't know whether I should make it as a form of a motion, but maybe we could talk to the Graphic Arts Department and get some posters made.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Christina, I had one question. Could you please explain what you mean by we are reclassifying payroll codes to reflect correct budget lines?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So it doesn't mean that somebody who was added to the business office or transferred in the role was given different classification?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. Ms. Van der Kloot. So, Mr. Teixeira, are you thinking that we would pilot a program in Portuguese for next school year?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and at Medford High School, say for the Portuguese students, level one and level two, would be those students who were, certainly level one would be the students who were just coming to us. And level two, they might have been with us for?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The other question, which certainly is to be addressed to you but a little bit different, is that we changed significantly this year when we split some programs between the Roberts and the Brooks. How is that working out?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I was just curious, I think one of the concerns had to do with siblings and ability of siblings to receive their, you know, sisters and brothers.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so at some point I'd like to ask for a report on how that's worked out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Bernadette. You're welcome. So of the corrections and changes that you've made, I've noted that all the ones that I particularly had brought up, you've taken care of. That, of course, now being said, is my eyes lit on another line here, which I think we need to amend. So if you give me a second to find it. Sure. It has to do with the notification for approval or disapproval of the field trip and it is on page 4, section 3B. It reads right now, all school sponsored trips which involve overnight travel must receive prior approval of the superintendent and a vote by the Medford School Committee six months prior to the trip. And I have to say, I know that that's totally unrealistic. I think that when we're thinking about it, we're thinking about all-schools concert trips, which involve overnight out-of-country travel. So that would be when the kids are going off to Spain or Italy or whatever, that that time frame of six months is what we would be expecting or looking for. But we all know that there have been other overnight trips, even including the SkillsUSA program is an overnight trip. We've had kids go to the Ethics Bowl was an overnight trip. Those things, there was no time to give six months. It's not realistic to have our policy say six months. So I think we need a sentence which say, For other field trips, for other overnight trips, the school committee will be brought to the school committee for their approval. Using discretion. Using as timely, I mean, it depends on the time frame.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, prior to the trip. But I mean, it has to be reasonable. We really don't like the last minute ones. I mean, there's a last minute one because there's an opportunity that's last minute. And there's a last minute one because nobody got around to telling us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: until after the deadline. There is a clause which allows the superintendent to approve a trip if we don't have a meeting. OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But again, I think the first sentence needs to say overnight out of country. OK. Out of country. Travel. And then the second sentence need to say, I'm just trying to think, other trips involving overnight travel must be approved by the school committee. within an appropriate time frame. I think we're going to need to leave it a little bit unclear, unless someone else has a better wording.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So you're saying all school-sponsored trips which involve overnight travel must receive prior approval of the superintendent and a vote of the Medford school committee prior to payment. Prior to payment.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Nope, that's good. Motion to approve. Mr. Benedetto.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May I ask one question? Do you have the samples ready? Is there any concern about tabling this piece of it at this point? Is it going to hold anything up in terms of? We have an amendment. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, Erin, yes. I'd second. No, Erin wants to, what I was just asking was for clarification, because Erin wants to table it at right now and hold it until we have all of it together. I just asked whether there was any problem with that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There's a motion on the floor. Ms. Van der Kloot. So you're going to kill me, but I'm going back to this line about approval. And you just said something. You said that what happened in the past is that teachers started advertising to the kids that they were going to go on this, and they got everybody all excited, and they might even start raising money. And that has nothing to do with payment. So, if we're saying that when we want to approve the trip, if you're waiting, saying, well, we only need to approve it with payment, that means that teacher can already be advertising it and they can be raising money. Payment is not the word that you want there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I didn't suggest payment. Someone else did.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And I suggested that what we were doing was saying that a teacher was going out of the country, the school committee wanted six months notice. I think if there's an overnight trip within the United States that we want two months notice, maybe three months notice. Okay, I'm saying, and then I'm putting in a clause and saying if an opportunity arises for students that is, you know, underneath this time frame, that approval can be given by the superintendent with notification to the school committee. I mean, that's how I would line it out. Now, because payment I think is, I think payment is arbitrary.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: come with this opportunity to go to New York.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Superintendent, do I dare remind you that just last week we were approving a field trip and the kids had already gone? We had a new administrator.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Let me just ask the committee. If we're talking about foreign trips out of the country to Italy, to Honduras, wherever it is, how much time does the committee want to know in advance to approve that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: 90 days. Here it said six months. We usually bring those to you pretty early.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I think you should do three months because I think... Wait, the six months was for foreign travel, okay? If you're saying just a general blanket and the kids are going to Cape Cod, we're not asking for six months' time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right, Mrs. Chris? Yes. Mrs. Stone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Miss Van der Kloot. So is this then do we need to go before the City Council to ask for this match?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And would this be part of a capital improvement plan or would this be a standalone item?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And so we need to move on this relatively quickly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'd make a motion for approval because obviously anything that we can do to improve our infrastructure is absolutely worth doing. And so I make a motion to approve and to send this forward to the city council for their approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So my question was, it's a wonderful thing. I'm sure we're going to be very conscientious of making sure that we have lunches for all kids, no matter what their allergies might be or something like that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And the second question I had to do had to do with In the report, it said, as discussed, signs signifying Stop and Shop's donation will be placed inside the bistro, and we will receive content, i.e. photos, for marketing and media relations purposes. So I just wondered what exactly the, I could certainly see other people approaching other food stores for donations as well or for assistance. And so I just want to make sure that because Stop and Shop has their sign that it is open to other perhaps generous givers in the future.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, thank you, Chris.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just had a question about the bus. Is this a Bus that a private bus for these no, it's not a private bus.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I figured for the price it had to be but I just want yes I hope you guys have a wonderful time. I wish I was going. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. You know, this is an excellent thing. And of course, we're going to approve it. But I just want to set the record straight. In terms of timeliness of us receiving this, I believe the students left yesterday and are returning tomorrow.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So it's a motion of approval, sort of in retrospect. But it's a great thing, and we know that it's wonderful for our students. I'm certainly glad that they're going, and I look forward to hearing from them on their return.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha. Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto. Mrs. Kreatz. Yes. Mrs. Mustone. Yes. Mr. Scurry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Van der Kloot. Yes. Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Roy, we knew this day would come, but it doesn't make the coming any easier. You've been an exceptional leader for our community. Your commitment and dedication is simply, it can't be, it's unparalleled. I've been on the school committee for a long time, so I've known and been able to work with you for a long time. And I have to tell you, the number of nights that I found you in your office night after night after night, ready to respond to any question, ready to be there, is just unbelievable. And also, as a school committee, we can get to pick up the phone and call the superintendent, and it didn't matter was it weekend, it didn't matter whether he was on vacation. And so some of us have talked to him when he was on vacation, and he was always there ready to answer questions. I think of your great compassion to staff members who were under duress as something that was truly, you know, always unsung. It was always below the level. But when we had a staff member who was going through some crisis, Roy was always there and compassionate for them. His dedication to our students and the whole child approach, I think on some of these things, you led the pack. Early childhood education, the Medford Family Network, so important in our world. No superintendent can be everything to everybody. Yep, superintendents piss people off sometimes. They say no. And you've done that, Roy. And I know that there have been people who've not always been enthusiastic about your leadership. But I, for one, as someone who has sat and worked with you, who've been on many different committees and worked with you, can only say that you have been a remarkable leader for us. Your work ethic is just the tops, and you have Your dedication to Medford has been absolutely exemplary. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Scurry will call the roll. Mrs. Cugno? Absent. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Present. Mrs. Kreatz? Here. Mrs. Mustone? Here. Mr. Scurry? Present. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Present. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to mention that as your secretary, when I go in and sign the bills, I see all of the lists of teachers who've submitted paperwork to get reimbursed. And I get to see what courses they're taking, what grades they've gotten, they're doing great. And so I've noticed there were a lot that came in, probably because the teachers took them over the summer in recent, and that's the line item you're seeing, but I have looked at every single one.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vanden Heuvel. Yes, the only thing is, of course, some of the kids are already beginning to apply to college, so there is a timeliness issue. And I, too, have a different recollection than what's here, because I remember asking very specifically that whether we could continue for just as a transition period that the kids' GPAs be listed as they are now as a vocational program. It says here, Dr. Perrella said that we can create any list you want, so don't worry about it. I was definitely surprised when all of a sudden I was told that it wasn't working the way that we expected. Mr. Superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I would like to lay the paper on the table.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to say that I personally was very disheartened when I heard that the teacher's reaction was that he felt demonized and less so. I felt very, very sad because that was certainly, I don't think, our intention as school committee members or maybe even the superintendent. The reality was that we have gotten a lot of calls from parents whose kids were not being able to be placed in the school of their choice where their friends were. And this is a real dilemma for us because it has snowballed. I still am receiving emails from one parent who tells me how upset their child is because she has been separated from her friend back. And for me, this has become this sort of like, how do we solve this issue when all of a sudden one group of parents is selecting a school and that those who weren't able because we We want to keep class sizes reasonable, and it's not appropriate to have one school with, we can't go over contractually the class size limits, nor would we want to. So, this issue of friends, and how do we, how do we, tackle this issue so that we don't have an imbalance. I have been to the McGlynn School. I think you guys are great. I've had wonderful experiences, wonderful opportunities to be at the McGlynn School. I certainly would be comfortable to send any child of mine to the McGlynn School. And because I have history, as many of us do here, we know that there has been sometimes where the balance goes one way and then the balance goes the other way and if I blink my eyes another year it's going to go back the other way. From a school committee perspective I need to parents to feel good about the choices and this issue of friends, of what happens when my friends go there and it snowballs is real key for me in trying to figure that out. That's why we've been talking about saying we want to add after school activities where kids from both schools can attend so that a club will have friends and the kid won't feel so bad about being at the other school. I know from some people, their kids have acclimated in a positive way. Once the parent went, once the kid went, it's fine. But the angst that we saw and heard this summer was huge. Anyway, thank you so much for coming down and thank you for the work that you do for our kids every day.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd say clearly you guys did a great job.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just would like to respond to you, Mr. McKillop. I think we need to keep something in perspective. Up to this point, up to this year, in the recent years, if you look at our numbers, there's been a very sort of equal distribution between the schools. The school committee members have been to the McGlynn. We know many, many of the faces that are before us. We've gone to many different events. We celebrate the McGlynn, and we celebrate the Andrews. It is wrong to say that we didn't know that with 60%, okay, that was something which our great speaker talked about tonight, but we know that, and we may have to look about that. Is there a perception because of that number, that certain parents that are saying, and I think Justin did a fine job alluding to saying, hey, is that being so, parents are saying, oh, well, I want to go to this school instead. Those students are great students. I know them, and I love them, and they're fantastic students. But you know, not everybody necessarily knows them when they're choosing the school. So I don't really need you to be here tonight to lecture us about what we're not doing. We need to keep this into perspective. We've had a fine working relationship with our wonderful teachers across the district. This year, late in the spring, when we had selection, we discovered we had an issue, which caused us to sit back and say, whoa, what's going on here? Because all of a sudden we have these students who are very upset because their friends are going elsewhere. Okay? Nobody called me. Not one parent called me and said, I don't want to go to the McGlynn because their teachers are no good. Not one. What I heard was, I want my student to go to the Andrews because that's where his friends are going. And it's that how do we block up then? How do we make this division of friends going groups of friends so that kids don't feel isolated? That's what I've heard over and again. That's why I said I was so dismayed when I heard that the teachers felt somehow or another that we were thinking that they were lacking because that wasn't true. So I just, I need to keep it in perspective, okay? I need not to create an issue where there wasn't an issue. I appreciate the teachers coming forward. I need you to remember where this came from. And that's the problem we were trying to solve.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I just really wanted to congratulate you on working so hard. I remember so many times seeing you gathering signatures to make sure that this would happen. And now to see the amount of money and the possibilities before us is just wonderful. So thank you. Thank you so much. I'll go along with the playground. That's a good start. I'd also like to see a playground like those that they have in England, which are open, creative playgrounds for kids. And I just think that I've been reading up about them, and I just think that kind of the creative space opportunity, which is decidedly different area than a conventional playground would be a very interesting thing to pursue.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to mention also the Girl Scout Troop, who is selling 02155 gear. And because they're going to plan, they are planning a trip to Europe. And I just really want to support their efforts. And it's great. I wish I had brought mine. I meant to, and I forgot it. The bracelet?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, the hat. The hat, shirts.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We also had a request to discuss inclusionary field trips, and I'm wondering if that could be done in the same evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I wanted to ask, I totaled the numbers, and I see the first year that we were given data for in 2014-15 school year, there were 12. and then it went to 21, and then it grew to 25. So we're going in the wrong direction. But maybe that's a better identification.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The second piece of that is what I couldn't tell was whether, let's take fall 2016, there were six football, whether any of those students then were the same ones impacted because the same kids then went and played hockey.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess I'd like to trace it, too, because that's a concern if the kid has, you know, plays football in the fall and gets a concussion and then plays hockey in the winter and gets a concussion and ends up with lacrosse and, you know, we're making, it's also across the board, not just sport by sport.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I had one other question. So I was surprised when I got down to the very last line and found out that one of our students had a concussion as a crew member.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: VanderKloof, did that happen Once, was it a one time incident, or was it, it was when? Multiple. Multiple times. It was just the way that they operated, the advisory boards operated. They did not realize it. They didn't realize it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But we should be posting it, and now we know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Scurry will call the roll. Mrs. Cugno? Absent. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Present. Mrs. Kreatz? Here. Mrs. Mustone? Here. Mr. Scurry? Present. Mrs. Van der Kloot present. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to mention that as your secretary, when I go in and sign the bills, I see all of the lists of teachers who've submitted paperwork to get reimbursed. And I get to see what courses they're taking, what grades they've gotten, they're doing great. And so I've noticed there were a lot that came in probably because the teachers took them over the summer in recent and that's the line item you're seeing but I have looked at every single one.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, the only thing is of course the the some of the kids are already beginning to apply to college So there is a timeliness issue and I too have a different recollection than what's here because I remember asking very specifically that whether we could continue for just as a transition period that the kids GPAs be listed as they are now as a vocational program. It says here, Dr. Perrella said that we can create any list you want, so don't worry about it. I was definitely surprised when all of a sudden I was told that it wasn't working the way that we expected. Mr. Superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I would like to lay the paper on the table.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to say that I personally was very disheartened when I heard that the teachers reaction was that he felt that demonized and less so I would felt very very sad because that was certainly I don't think Our intention school committee members or or maybe even the superintendent. I'd the the reality was that we have gotten a lot of calls from parents whose kids were not being able to be placed in the school of their choice where their friends were. And this is a real dilemma for us because it has snowballed. I still am receiving emails from one parent who tells me how upset their child is because she has been separated from her friend back. And for me, this has become this sort of like, how do we solve this issue when all of a sudden one group of parents is selecting a school and that those who weren't able because we We want to keep class sizes reasonable and it's not appropriate to have one school with, we can't go over contractually the class size limits nor would we want to. So this issue of friends and how do we, how do we, tackle this issue so that we don't have an imbalance. I have been to the McGlynn School. I think you guys are great. I've had wonderful experiences, wonderful opportunities to be at the McGlynn School. I certainly would be comfortable to send any child of mine to the McGlynn School. And because I have history, as many of us do here, we know that there has been some times where the balance goes one way and then the balance goes the other way and if I blink my eyes another year it's going to go back the other way. From a school committee perspective I need to parents to feel good about the choices and this issue of friends, of what happens when my friends go there and it snowballs is real key for me in trying to figure that out. That's why we've been talking about saying we want to add after school activities where kids from both schools can attend so that a club will have friends and the kid won't feel so bad about being at the other school. I know from some people, their kids have acclimated in a positive way. Once the parent went, once the kid went, it's fine. But the angst that we saw and heard this summer was huge. Anyway, thank you so much for coming down, and thank you for the work that you do for our kids every day.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd say clearly you guys did a great job.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just would like to respond to you, Mr. McKillop. I think we need to keep something in perspective. Up to this point, up to this year, in the recent years, if you look at our numbers, there's been a very sort of equal distribution between the schools. The school committee members have been to the McGlynn. We know many, many of the faces that are before us. We've gone to many different events. We celebrate the McGlynn, and we celebrate the Andrews. It is wrong to say that we didn't know that 60%, okay, that was something which our great speaker talked about tonight, but we know that, and we may have to look about that. Is there a perception because of that number, that certain parents that are saying, and I think Justin did a fine job alluding to saying, hey, is that being so, parents are saying, oh, well, I want to go to this school instead. Those students are great students. I know them, and I love them, and they're fantastic students. But you know, not everybody necessarily knows them when they're choosing the school. So I don't really need you to be here tonight to lecture us about what we're not doing. We need to keep this into perspective. We've had a fine working relationship with our wonderful teachers across the district. This year, late in the spring, when we had selection, we discovered we had an issue, which caused us to sit back and say, whoa, what's going on here? Because all of a sudden, we have these students who are very upset because their friends are going elsewhere. Okay. Nobody called me. Not one parent called me and said, I don't want to go to the McGlynn because their teachers are no good. Not one. What I heard was, I want my student to go to the Andrews because that's where his friends are going. And it's that how do we block up then? How do we make this division of friends going groups of friends so that kids don't feel isolated? That's what is I've heard over and again. That's why I said I was so dismayed when I heard that the teachers felt somehow or another that we were thinking that they were lacking because that wasn't true. So I just I need to keep it in perspective Okay, I need not to create an issue where there wasn't an issue. I appreciate the teachers coming forward I need you to remember where this came from and that's the problem.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I remember so many times seeing you gathering signatures to make sure that this would happen. And now to see the amount of money and the possibilities before us is just wonderful. So thank you. Thank you so much. I'll go along with the playground. That's a good start. I'd also like to see a playground like those that they have in England, which are open creative playgrounds for kids. And I just think that I've been reading up about them, and I just think that kind of the creative space opportunity, which is decidedly different area than a conventional playground would be a very interesting thing to pursue.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to mention also the Girl Scout Troop who is selling 02155 gear and because they're going to plan, they are planning a trip to Europe and I just really want to support their efforts and it's great. I wish I had brought mine, I meant to when I brought it. The bracelet?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, the hat.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We also had a request to discuss inclusionary field trips and I'm wondering if that could be done in the same evening.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Nice. Ms. Van der Kloot. I wanted to ask, I totaled the numbers, and I see the first year that we were given data for in 2012, and then it went to 21, and then it grew to 25. So we're going in the wrong direction. But maybe that's a better identification.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's better identification. The second piece of that is what I couldn't tell was whether, let's take fall 2016, there were six football, whether any of those students then were the same ones impacted because the same kids then went and played hockey.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess I'd like to trace it too because that's a concern if a kid plays football in the fall and gets a concussion and then plays hockey in the winter and gets a concussion and ends up with lacrosse. It's also across the board, not just sport by sport.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I had one other question. So I was surprised when I got down to the very last line and found out that one of our students had a concussion as a crew member.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May I ask a question? Very good, Ms. VanderKloof. Did that happen, Once, was it a one time incident? Or was it, it was when?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Multiple times. It was just the way that they operated, the advisory boards operated. They did not realize. They didn't realize.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But we should be posting it, and now we know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno. Here. Mrs. DiBenedetto.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Kress. Here. Ms. Mestone. Here. Mr. Scurry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. Ms. Van der Kloot. I'd like to also acknowledge that we have a non-voting member, but our student representative, Sebastian Tringali, with us today.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So please understand from our point of view how confusing this is, because if in fact the other parent was just willing for them to come to Medford, we'd have no issue. Right. It would be not an issue. The superintendent wouldn't, there would be not an issue. So clearly, there is an issue, because the other parent does not want them to come to Medford, and they've already been in Andover.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But they were in North Andover last year, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot, do you have any paper or court order on your custody arrangements? The one thing we've never seen is what your custom custody order is, which says that the children are with you Monday through Friday.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So on Monday and Tuesday, they would be living in North Andover. So the problem that we have is they are not with us sleeping in Medford the five school days.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I move that the party before us meets with the significant other and attorneys or whoever is appropriate and the mayor and superintendent. Seconded.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I would like to make a motion that the school committee send a letter both to Team Medford and to Ajero and Mr. Wolfe to thank them so that it could be posted someplace and express our appreciation for their incredible donations. That would be great. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I have two questions. The first question is, I remember that last year there was the need for a lot of people to be concerned because some of the things that were reported out needed to be corrected. There were lots of discrepancies. And I know that's a very timely thing. Yes. Was the information that you received so far this year more accurate?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But I know you had to do a lot of footwork last year. Yes. The second question has to do with the participation rates. Are we anticipating that our participation rates were solid?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But we know who took the test and who didn't. Yes. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So as a... Yes, but we haven't gotten any results yet.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Traditionally it goes to the curriculum committee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Motion to accept and place on file. And thank you, Bernadette.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think that's such a great addition. I also, though, just need to take a moment to thank my colleague, Anne Marie Cuno, who was a driving force of setting up the camp 11 years ago. It's been a long time of great successes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And you do a great job, Anthony. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vander Kloof. Beverly, one of the big concerns this year was for the students who wanted to go to the Andrews and didn't get into the Andrews. And you already note that we still have a 47 discrepancy. But it was more than that, because there were parents of students who were very upset that this didn't work out well. I'm hoping that we are tracking those students and making sure that we know that a guidance Councilor, the principal, knows who those students are and are tracking how they're doing, helping make sure that they're getting connected to other kids in the school. This was clearly a great concern to the committee members, so perhaps you could address that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We knew that... No, not in terms of that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Like, I see that it says that we have plans to have more clubs at the McGlynn or clubs where kids could both join. And the thing is, I think we need to do that right away. I want to see options so that those kids who feel that they're taken away from their friends have an opportunity to perhaps join something and not waiting until the second semester.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think we usually plan for stipends to take place.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm racist So it's an interesting thing but there's always been over the course of all the years that they've been open that there are families who asked to go to one school or another and
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But not to this level.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So when we did it, it was very unpopular. And there were many, many parents who were extremely concerned. One of the things which now is I hear so many positive things about the Columbus that I think that parents, I've not heard anywhere near the level of concern because once people go and meet Mrs. K, they're so happy and the school is such a positive place to be. So I just haven't heard that level. The ugliest word of being a school committee member is probably redistricting. I mean, really positive. And Mia, you nearly took my breath away when you said, why don't we just do a lottery and have them do that? Well, that might be something we're going to talk about, but we're going to make A lot of people unhappy no matter what we do when we talk about this type of things of equity between choice and schools. It's a very difficult thing as a school committee member, because we are naturally people who want to please. And unfortunately, when you make that type of decision, you're going to not make everybody, it's impossible to make everybody happy. So what we have to concentrate on is we have to look at the total population of kids and say, what is the most equitable thing for our student body? And how are we making sure? And one of the things is when you go into those school buildings, you will see that they all have the same, they have a gym, they have a library, they have a... because we were so concerned at the time of building them that wherever a student in Medford went, that they would have an equitable building and environment to learn in and also populate as close as we can with the same kind of draws. This is, when I've been on the committee, the McGlynn at one point was more popular, and then it became the Andrews, and then it became the McGlynn. We've never had such an inequity as we did this year, and hopefully we won't again. But we clearly have to take steps this year to look at it. And in the meantime, my concern is the well-being of the students who didn't want to go.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think there's a reality that needs to be mentioned. The teacher is extraordinary. She does an extraordinary job getting all of those students onto the stage. I don't know if there's room one inch that is not covered by- She had a hundred last year. Right. So either we convince her and she would probably kill her because she told us to do it at the other school as well, or we have someone else run a drama program at the McGlynn that's equally popular. Because to just say, okay, every student, if I understand the student that you're talking about, But frankly, airing this, I bet tomorrow morning you're going to have 25 calls of kids who hear this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So perhaps we have to think about running a drama program.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. I just had one more question, a little bit back to earlier in your report. You mentioned to us the teacher changes. And I'm wondering if that's because are the teachers willing to do that? Are we going to see grievances at some point? I just wondered.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I understand, I was just curious why you were making, you know, informing the committee specifically. I mean, obviously, it's useful for us to know, but I just was curious.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thanks. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we didn't spend enough money? Oh no.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Christine, I just want to thank you for your diligence in sorting out all of these accounts, and this is good news. Great. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, we have condolences.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Skerry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Here. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Present. Mrs. Kress? Here. Mrs. Mustone? Here. Mr. Scurry?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. Ms. Van der Kloot. I'd like to also acknowledge that we have a non-voting member but our student representative Sebastian Tringali with us today.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Please understand from our point of view how confusing this is, because if in fact the other parent was just willing for them to come to Medford, we'd have no issue. It would be not an issue. The superintendent wouldn't, there would be not an issue. So clearly, there is an issue, because the other parent does not want them to come to Medford, and they've already been in Andover.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But they were in North Andover last year, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Do you have any paper or court order on your custody arrangements? The one thing we've never seen is what your custom custody order is, which says that the children are with you Monday through Friday.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So on Monday and Tuesday, they would be? In with her. they would be living in North Andover. So the problem that we have is they are not with us sleeping in Medford the five school days.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Party before us meets with the significant other and attorneys or whoever is appropriate and the mayor and superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I would like to make a motion that the school committee send a letter both to Team Medford and to Adgero and Mr. Wolf to thank them so that it could be posted someplace and express our appreciation for their incredible donations. That would be great. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I have two questions. The first question is, I remember that last year there was the need for a lot of people to be concerned because some of the things that were reported out needed to be corrected. There were lots of discrepancies. And I know that's a very timely thing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But I know you had to do a lot of footwork last year. Yes. We did. The second question has to do with the participation rates. Are we anticipating that our participation rates were solid?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, but we know who took the test and who didn't. Yes. Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, as a... Yes, but we haven't gotten any results yet.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Traditionally, it goes to the curriculum committee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Motion to accept and place on file. And thank you, Bernadette.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. I think that's such a great addition. I also though just need to take a moment to thank my colleague Ann Marie Cuno who was a driving force of setting up the camp 11 years ago. It's been a long time of great successes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. And you do a great job, Anthony. Thank you. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you guys.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vander Kloof. Beverly, one of the big concerns this year was for the students who wanted to go to the Andrews and didn't get into the Andrews. And you already note that we still have a 47 discrepancy, but it was more than that because there were parents of students who were very upset that this didn't work out well. I'm hoping that we are tracking those students and making sure that we know that a guidance Councilor, the principal knows who those students are and are tracking how they're doing, helping make sure that they're getting connected to other kids in the school. And this was clearly a great concern to the committee members. So perhaps you could address that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We knew that- No, not in terms of that, Beverly. What's being done now to make sure those students are- Oh, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, like I see that it says, you know, we have plans to have more clubs at the McGlynn or clubs where kids could both join. And the thing is, I think we need to do that right away. I want to see options so that those kids who feel that they're taken away from their friends have an opportunity to perhaps join something and not waiting until the second semester.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think we usually plan for stipends to take place.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I am So it's an interesting thing but there's always been over the course of all the years that they've been open that there are families who asked to go to one school or another and
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But not to this level.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So when we did it, it was very unpopular. And there were many, many parents who were extremely concerned. One of the things which now is I hear so many positive things. about the Columbus that I think that parents, I've not heard anywhere near the level of concern because once people go and meet Mrs. K, they're so happy and the school is such a positive place to be. So I just haven't heard that level, the ugliest word of being a school committee member is probably redistricting. I mean, really positive. And Mia, you nearly took my breath away when you said, why don't we just do a lottery and have them do that? Well, that might be something we're gonna talk about, but we're gonna make a lot of people unhappy no matter what we do when we talk about this type of things of equity between choice in schools. It's a very difficult thing as a school committee member, because we are naturally people who want to please. And unfortunately, when you make that type of decision, you're gonna not make everybody, it's impossible to make everybody happy. So what we have to concentrate on is we have to look at the total population of kids and say, what is the most equitable thing for our student body? And how are we making sure? And one of the things is when you go into those school buildings, you will see that they all have the same, they have a gym, they have a library, they have a, because we were so concerned at the time of building them, that wherever a student in Medford went, that they would have an equitable building and environment to learn in, and also populate as close as we can with the same kind of draws. This is, when I've been on the committee, the McGlynn at one point was more popular, and then it became the Andrews, and then it became the McGlynn. We've never had such an inequity as we did this year, and hopefully we won't again. But we clearly have to take steps this year to look at it. And in the meantime, my concern is the well-being of the students who didn't want to go, so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We don't want to have one school which has 300 kids in one school.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. Ms. Vandiver. I think there's a reality that needs to be mentioned. The teacher is extraordinary. She does an extraordinary job getting all of those students onto the stage. I don't know if there's room one inch that is not covered by- She had a hundred last year. Right. So either we convince her and she would probably kill her because she tells us to do it at the other school as well, or we have someone else run a drama program at the McGlynn that's equally popular. Because to just say, okay, every student, I understand about the student that you're talking about, but frankly, airing this, I bet tomorrow morning you're gonna have 25 calls of kids who hear this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So perhaps we have to think about running a drama program.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just had one more question a little bit back to earlier in your report you mentioned to us the teacher changes and I'm wondering if that's because are where the teachers willing to do that or where are they are we going to see grievances at some point I just wondered
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I understand. I was just curious why you were making, you know, informing the committee specifically. I mean, obviously, it's useful for us to know, but I just was curious.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thanks. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we didn't spend enough money? Damn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, right. Ms. Van der Kloot. Christine, I just want to thank you for your diligence in sorting out all of these accounts, and this is good news. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: New business.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Skerry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Mrs. DiBenedetto? Present. Mrs. Kreatz? Here. Mrs. Mastoon? Here. Mr. Scurry? Present. Mrs. Van der Kloot, present. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is a saying which says that the devil is in the details and I sort of feel like that's part of what our discussion about the vocational school and the the changes we had this summer, because while I'm having a feeling that perhaps the administration, it was all perfectly clear to them, all of these details, from the school committee perspective, as I had expressed to the superintendent, once I learned of some of the changes, was not clear at all. For example, I was not clear that all of a sudden, guidance Councilor would no longer sit in that particular office over on their side, or that the kids would not have an assistant principal with them in the course of where those SHOP programs are held. Maybe there's a good rationale behind a lot of the different changes, but quite honestly, I don't understand all of them. And I think, I mean, as every, my colleagues have said, it's important for us to understand it in order to embrace them or to say, hey, wait a second. does that really need to be and how do we maintain that identity for the vocational program, which I'll say the vocational program, because it's important that we have that identity held strong so that in the future, not only are they Mighty Mustangs, but they're members of the vocational program. I think it's possible to be both in a very positive way. So I look forward to the follow-up on this. I certainly have a lot of questions as well. And when I say that, I don't want to take away from the work that was done by so many in being able to bring some of the walls down, because there was a lot of work, and there are a lot of advantages. And so we want to go forward being able to take advantage of all those positive things, but also really looking back and saying, wait a second, is that what we thought, and how does that work?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There's none.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You didn't do a roll call vote for bills or transfer of funds?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Stoney? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Vanderpoot? Yes. Mayor Buerkle?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think we had a request.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there no other questions? I just have a housekeeping. I didn't receive, attach the, I received one page of new hires, but not the second page. So I don't know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And then if we could take up that issue again about the Andrews-McGlynn when we're under enrollment.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to say thank you to both people and Mrs. Lasky for organizing the new teacher induction and the administrative meetings. I had the opportunity to come up to the high school and say hello to the new teachers and of course they all look so young.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, my question, I heard something about there will be an action report, and I think that's in relation to the discrepancy of enrollment between the Andrews and McGlynn, is that correct? That's correct. Okay, and when are we to expect that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. And the biggest concern I have right at the moment, I think that there's a long term and a short term, but clearly we heard from some parents of students who did not get their first choice school and were very upset about that. And I just wanted to make sure that we follow those kids and make sure that their acclimation to the new school is in fact going well and they're not being adversely impacted.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Excuse me, I read my packet thoroughly and I don't, did you just give us an action report?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, maybe it's in someone's, but it's not in mine. I have the Yoki, I have the purple paper, I have the executive session. I do not have that paper.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No wonder, I don't know. Thank you. I still don't have it. So now I do.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So maybe perhaps we could put it on the agenda for follow-up at our next meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If we have questions about it, I'd like to put it on the agenda, please.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: John, in your report, you attached information from an inspection from the plaster in this auditorium. And it's difficult for us to see because the lights are in our eyes. I noted that you said that we made ceiling repairs. So are the ceiling repairs consistent? with the recommendations in the report, and did we have our guys do that, or did we have professionals come in?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We can't tell anything. Right above us, actually.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So all of those were taken care of?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I guess the key part of that is besides the repair work, it sounded like any issues that allowed water in that might have caused this are taken care of.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam Mayor. I would just like to say one thing. I don't know whether, and this obviously is totally up to you, because you're certainly free to make any statement you want to us, whether you want to make a public statement or you want to talk to our Attorney General directly. So I just want to put that out as to whether this is an issue you want aired publicly. I just wanted to make sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That I don't know. Mr. Greenspan, does the school committee have the right to direct the superintendent to enroll the students or would that be in contempt of court?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I haven't seen the document.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, this is a really difficult issue for us because I think that we have great sympathy and we certainly want to get the kids to school. Frankly, wherever they're going to school, we want those kids to be enrolled in school and resume their normal education path. As a one school committee member, I feel great sympathy, but I don't think this is in my purview as much as I might want it to be.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May I follow up?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. I don't really... My feeling, too, is that I understand you're saying we may not have the standing, but if we don't at least try. Obviously, it's in the best interest of the students, of the children, that we make the decision. And so, I would at least want to petition them, even if it's for a temporary placement. So, could we ask you to do that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I appreciate your work. Dr. Perillo, I have to say the only thing which is just, well, I have two different things that's just gnawing at me, and I'll vote to go along with this, but the other day I overheard a conversation between two parents, and one of them said, my son has already called or texted me six times, and it was only 10.30 in the morning. And she said, I wish they wouldn't allow this, because it was clearly, where is that separation between child and parent? And I see that as a growing, concern, we talk about helicopter parents, we talk about, you know, kids, they're just, the advent of this ease in 24-7 technology has also meant for some kids not being as, gaining their independence. And so I And at my workplace where I supervise high school students, I know that there's been a real issue where it's been very difficult to say, nope, you can't use those cell phones when you're, oh yeah, pushing a patient or taking them, you know, and having to make strict lines, especially because there's other than employees walking through the halls on their cell phones. And, you know, when you're in the kind of environment where I work, we need to impress upon our students what's appropriate and they're just so used to having ready access that when that cell phone buzzes, they're thinking they can be there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yep, that shouldn't be the whole focus of your day. So motion to approve? Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dr. Perla, while you're here, I'm just going to take this opportunity to mention that the school committee has been without a student representative for a long time. Over the course of years, occasionally we've had some students that we've done better or worse, but now for the last last two years or more, we haven't had anybody, and certainly nobody consistent. I think it's valuable when we get to a question like this. This is when, while you've done an excellent job defending your position and explaining to us the rationale, which I certainly appreciate, but this is so much a question when we should have our student representatives present. So I'm wondering if we could ask you to explain to the students what the role is, explain that this is an opportunity for them. We've had some great, you know, vocal people in the past. We like hearing from the kids, and I'm wondering if you could help arrange that so that we could expect to have students on a regular basis attend our meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm sure there are a lot of people who will force him. We'll be up to help you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If you do need us to come forward, and as Mr. Skerry said, to come recruit kids. You're always welcome. But there's always been a role. There always is a role. We've been to many other schools. We now have them, and I feel like we're really missing out right now.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Vandekloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Very good, thank you. So just quick, does the $25,000, is that really sufficient for the high school when I think about all the different class events? I mean, I see the checks that are paid out and some of them are quite substantial. Is that enough of a cushion to make sure that
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Vanderpoot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van de Koot. I had a couple of first nuts and bolts questions. You listed in your report Curtis liabilities and one of them was notification of rights and suggested that this could be easily resolved by adding a message to the school brains login screen. Has that been done?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's very easy to... Then it would just seem that we should try and take these liabilities off. Another one was the current ad hoc method of assigning user security roles. is unsustainable and may expose sensitive information. So I would think that that would be another one that we would need to spend some time on. The data storage, I understand, being an issue. So those are kind of nuts and bolts issues. Since you've identified them, I'd like to try and resolve them. The bigger issue that is also brought up in this report is the whole GPA system and the weighting of courses. And I think that's a much larger conversation than certainly any of us have the wherewithal tonight. I think that should probably happen within the course of meetings and probably in the curriculum subcommittee, perhaps, if my colleagues thought so as well. I think that there's a lot of input we need to get and a lot of information for all of those questions which were presented to us, really saying is that the best possible way to go in the future to determine student achievement and how we emphasize that, how we tell schools, colleges, when kids are applying, what sort of student this is. It also goes on and says, you know, how do we give out awards and is it based on GPA or is it based on other stuff? So a lot of information in that. And something that I would suggest that we send to the curriculum subcommittee, which is my subcommittee, and ponder and work on that over some period of time this year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just have a question that I'd like to throw out.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Since we're talking about next week's meeting, I have to tell you as one committee member, this has not been an ideal setup for me tonight. It's very difficult to feel like I'm having a conversation with my fellow school committee members. The lights are in our eyes. We only sort of see the audience. And I'm not sure whether the television was capturing the speakers who came before us. Yes? Okay. Oh, good.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great. The only problem is that as a body who is interacting with my colleagues, frankly, it's very disconcerting to be trying to have a discussion in this. So I'd like some thought put into this next week.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Present.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Congratulations, Phaedra. I noticed that it said that the students' work would be posted on our website with their parents' permission. And I have to say, when it was posted last year, I read every one, and it was great. So I really hope that, parents, you give permission so that we can read your students' work.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vanderclue, point of information? Yes, as a secretary, when I signed the bills, I remember signing that and looking at it specifically. I have to tell you because it's two weeks ago, I don't remember what it was, but I specifically looked at it and checked it because I, too, was like the way that it was categorized seemed funny, but it made
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On page what?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is none.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I noticed at the end of the minutes of the meeting that there were various different items that were discussed. And one, we had spent considerable time at an earlier meeting, which was broadcasts on TV publicly, so I just want to read it for the record. Meeting with Attorney General clarified the B-1, B-2 enforcement issue. Schools are not an agent of the federal government for the enforcement of immigration law. Therefore, our schools do not have to remove any existing B-1, B-2 students. This was a concern among many of the members, if all the members of the school committee, so I'm just glad to see that that was resolved. Also, as a question on... see that there was discussion to allow direct appointment of fine arts director and the technology director by the superintendent. And I want to ask the superintendent if he's made those appointments yet.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We did a motion, yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does the human geography course, will it be in place of one of the other AP courses or its addition to?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to ask about the summer school program in terms of tuition. For students who are on free or reduced lunch, you know, potentially if they fail two subjects, it's $500. Do we have a reduced cost for students who are clearly economically disadvantaged?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Whenever we discuss the summer fund program, I think I ought to give kudos to Ann Marie Cuno, our colleague, who really got it off the ground. So, just want to mention that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I just noticed that in the form, it says that the summer fund program runs 7.30 PM to 4.30 PM. It just needs to be corrected.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thanks.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Very good.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Very good. Ms. Van der Kloot. I think my biggest concern is sometimes older students are in charge of looking after younger siblings. And by splitting the families between two schools, which I certainly understand why we're moving in that direction, that could create some issues. And that's the place that I'm most concerned about. And there may be some interesting and creative solutions to that for families, but I think that we just need to be very, very well aware of. And most importantly is the information to the families so we're aware of any, you know, real problems ahead of time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cuno? Present. Mrs. DiVenedera? Present. Mrs. Kreatz? Present. Mrs. Twiston? Present. Mr. Sperry? Present. Mrs. Van Der Poel? Present. Mayor Burk?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hold on. Congratulations, Pedro. I noticed that it said that the students' work would be posted on our website with their parents' permission. And I have to say, when it was posted last year, I read every one, and it was great. So I really hope that parents should get permission so that we can read your students' work. Thank you for mentioning that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vanden Heuvel, point of information? Yes. As a secretary, when I signed the bills, I remember signing that and looking at it specifically. I have to tell you, because it's two weeks ago, I don't remember what it was. But I specifically looked at it and checked it, because I, too, was like, the way that it was categorized seemed funny. But once I saw what it was, it made perfect sense.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On page what?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I noticed at the end of the minutes of the meeting that there were various different items that were discussed. And one we had spent considerable time at an earlier meeting, which was broadcast on TV publicly. So I just want to read it for the record. Meeting with Attorney General clarified the B1, B2 enforcement issue. Schools are not an agent of the federal government for the enforcement of immigration law. Therefore, our schools do not have to remove any existing B1, B2 students. This was a concern among many of the members, if all the members of the school committee, so I'm just glad to see that that was resolved. Also, as a question, I see that there was a discussion to allow direct appointment of fine arts director and the technology director by the superintendent, and I want to ask the superintendent if he's made those
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Does the human geography course, will it be in place of one of the other AP courses or it's addition to?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to ask about the summer school program in terms of tuition. For students who are on free or reduced lunch, you know, potentially if they fail two subjects, it's $500. Do we have a reduced cost for students who are clearly economically disadvantaged?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Whenever we discuss the summer fund program, I think I ought to give kudos to Anne Marie Cuno, our colleague, who really got it off the ground. So just want to mention that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Very good. Miss Van der Kloot. I think my biggest concern is sometimes older students are in charge of looking after younger siblings and by splitting the families, uh, between two schools, which I certainly understand why we're moving in that direction, that could create some issues. And that's the place that I'm most concerned about. And there may be some interesting and creative solutions to that for families, but I think that we just need to be very, very well aware of. And most importantly is the information to the families, so we're aware of any real problems ahead of time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Scudino? Here. Mrs. DiBenedetto?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is such a wonderful thing. It's like a dream come true for our Medford students. Obviously, we can't express our appreciation to Jim and Thelma Connors, but we certainly owe them a huge debt of thanks for our students. And I appreciate all the people who are working on this to make sure that it is administered correctly and that our students will benefit. I do hope that we receive a list of all the students who received them. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I just, it's always nice to see the list. It's particularly nice to see that we've got a student accepted into Yale this year, because that's a very difficult school to have an acceptance, so I was particularly happy to see that a Medford student had made it to Yale. Yeah, I think it's been a while since that's happened.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Tony, that I know Mrs. Kreatz and myself were able to attend Dr. Ruth Pote's talk, which was just exceptional. Everybody in the audience who, and I've talked to people since, have said it was one of the best things that they've attended. I hope that at some point we might be able to bring her back again. She truly was... It was a wonderful event and I'm so glad that I was able to attend.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. Yes. an opportunity to review this report in detail and I did look at all of the findings and although there was much that I didn't understand as a novice in this area, there were other parts that just make common sense as they were talking about, you know, areas where all of a sudden it would get too crowded, if you would, and somehow or another it just seemed one of the most comprehensive and clearly it's something we need to move ahead on. Is the next appropriate step to have a committee of the whole to review this?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Personally, I'm comfortable with just authorizing the administration to move ahead if my colleagues are.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. Mayor Burke, this is actually a question for you. Earlier this year, we started out by putting together items that we thought were part of a capital improvement plan, including the edging along at the middle school complex, all of that edging along the roads that were sidewalk, which were a concern, and I think also the playgrounds. But I haven't, we're really sort of talking about individual projects again and not the capital improvement plan. Where are we on that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And would a project like, I mean, again, we've sort of had ongoing concerns, ultimately, about the play surfaces and the playgrounds. And I know that much work was done, and there were patches and whatever. But it's still out there as a project, which we need to take a look at.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yep.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pretty soon.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. Yes. Thank you, Mr. Superintendent, for your report. You touched on possible federal impacts, and of course that picture is not clear to us at this time. However, today the National School Boards Association did send out an alert because of the concern about the legislation to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act and the impact on Medicaid funding for public school students. If passed at this point, it would limit Medicaid funding and it says the impact, the ability of students with disabilities and students in poverty to receive critical necessary health services in public schools. The legislation will require schools to compete for limited Medicaid funding and result in the institution of arbitrary caps and how much Medicaid reimbursements are made to public schools. Again, this would be another area where I know that money comes back to the city, but it's another place where we would find a loss.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: They urge us to call our House of Representative people. Of course, we understand where they already sit in our state. However, I did want to bring it to your attention.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: There is none.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is such a wonderful thing. It's like a dream come true for our Medford students. Obviously, we can't express our appreciation to Jim and Thelma Connors, but we certainly owe them a huge debt of thanks for our students. And I appreciate all the people who are working on this to make sure that it is administered correctly and that our students will benefit. I do hope that we receive a list of all the students who receive them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I just, it's always nice to see the list. It's particularly nice to see that we've got a student accepted into Yale this year, because that's a very difficult school to have an acceptance. So I was particularly happy to see that a Medford student had made it to Yale.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: that I know Mrs. Kreatz and myself were able to attend Dr. Ruth Pote's talk, which was just exceptional. Everybody in the audience who, and I've talked to people since, have said it was one of the best things that they've attended. I hope that at some point we might be able to bring her back again. She truly was, it was a wonderful event and I'm so glad that I was able to attend.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, that I had, um, an opportunity to review this report in detail and I did look at all of the, uh, findings and although there was much that I didn't understand as, as a novice in this area, there were other parts that just make common sense as they were talking about, you know, areas where all of a sudden it would get too crowded, if you would, and somehow or another it just seemed one of the most comprehensive and clearly it's something we need to move ahead on. Is the next appropriate step to have a committee of the whole to review this?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Personally, I'm comfortable with just moving at authorizing the administration to move ahead.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Um, I think mayor Burke, this is actually a question for you. Earlier this year we started out by putting together, items that we thought were part of a capital improvement plan, including the edging along at the middle school complex, all of that edging along the roads that were sidewalk, which were a concern. And I think also the playgrounds. But I haven't, we're really sort of talking about individual projects again and not the capital improvement plan. Where are we on that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And would a project like, I mean, again, we've, we've sort of had ongoing concerns ultimately about the play surfaces and the playgrounds. And I know that much work was done and there were patches and whatever, but you know, it's still out there as a project, which we, we need to take a look at.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Yes. Thank you, Mr. Superintendent, for your report. You touched on possible federal impacts, and of course that picture is not clear to us at this time. However, today the National School Boards Association did send out an alert because of the concern about the legislation to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act and the impact on Medicaid funding for public school students. If passed at this point, it would limit Medicaid funding and it says the impact the ability of students with disabilities and students in poverty to receive critical necessary health services in public schools. The legislation will require schools to compete for limited Medicaid funding and result in the institution of arbitrary caps and how much Medicaid reimbursements are made to public schools. Again this would be another area where I know that money comes back to the city but it's another place where we would find a loss.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It impacts the pie. They urge us to call our House of Representatives people. Of course, we understand where they already sit in our state. However, I did want to bring it to your attention.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Grignano. Present. Present. Mrs. Kreatz. Here. Mrs. Mastone. Here. Mr. Skerry. Present. Mrs. Vanderbilt. Present. And her.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I didn't. Thank you, Toni.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. All right. Great. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: As I reflect on this, I think exactly what Kathy picked up was the thing that most concerns me, that 32 out of 39 kids reported that they had been in a car where they knew that someone had been drinking or using drugs. Just about two months, within the last two to three months, a young stonem teenager lost her life. And prior, I know many of the kids who were friends or in her class, and sadly, Prior to that, and fortunately, there were other students in the car who had gotten out before she had her tragic accident. And I think that that's the piece here, we're talking about ninth graders, that we really need. By the junior and senior prom, it's really too late. That's the piece that we really need to target.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Toni.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just think that it's important that we note that the different sorts of things that the money is being spent on, including five foot wide concrete sidewalk and granite curbs, including ramps, pavement mill and overlay, signs and striping, landscaping, drainage, utility improvements, school zone, flasher, traffic control. And these are the sorts of needed improvements that will make our city safer for walking. So this is really fantastic, and thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot? I was trying to think that perhaps it would have been nice to have our principals of the middle schools come forward so that we could approve their field trips rather than keeping them to the end of the meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I did have a question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vanden Heuvel. Yes. I think that the Andrews told us the cost of the trip, but I didn't see it in the McGlynn report.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And yours, the students go just overnight?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And for the Andrews, it's two?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So what time do they leave in the morning?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And then they return?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. It's just an interesting difference.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Anyway, I think it'll be interesting when you compare notes after the trips to see how it worked out. And how many students do you have participating?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. And you have?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It doesn't make sense to combine them. I mean, obviously not this year.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. I'm not meaning this year at all. I'm just, and I think that there were pros and cons, but I, The question needs to be asked.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Anyway, great. Thanks very much. You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Yes, I just had one question. We have the list of where they are in the school system. I'm just sort of curious. Is there one in this? Yep. Right in the front lobby. OK. Just in case, because sometimes passions get pretty heated here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to mention that I really love that after the AP exams, the students are going to go down to Kids' Corner and teach them some some words and whatever. I thought that was a lot of fun.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So if you have any questions. Thank you very much. Ms. Vandekloot. Could I just ask, what was the date of the pathways?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. There's so many things that night.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And that one didn't get on our list. So thank you very much. You're welcome. I guess one other comment, I just wanted to, I really like that there's been so much interaction between our students and Tufts and many of the other MIT and whatever so that our students are seeing real world potential jobs in mathematics and what people do with it. So I think that clearly your report listed so many of them and I think that's terrific. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: 10th is canceled. Yes. And that's rescheduled to April 24th. Right. OK. Thank you. I did wonder, when we were given the school council reports, my colleague earlier asked about the PTO representation. And I wondered if we might combine those two, because often the school council reports reflect. We can.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Sometimes we hear about them.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Plinio? Here. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Present. Present. Mrs. Vanderpool? Present. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? No. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mastella is absent. Mr. Skerry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot, yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion for approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: the conference room. Professor Carter, Ann Marie O'Neill, or individuals at SFS, me and the staff. President Superintendent Roy Belson, Deputy Superintendent Beverly Nelson, Assistant Superintendent Diane Caldwell, Vocational Principal Director Heidi Riccio, Director of Finance and Administration Christine Patterson, and Director of Buildings and Grounds John McLaughlin, parents Sarah O'Grady, Melissa McGinnis, Carolyn Montello, and Michelle Ciccolo, all rose to salute the flag. Vice Chair Cunha stated the purpose of the meeting was to continue our discussions on capital planning, projects for the Medford Public Schools. Vice Chair Cugno called upon the superintendent to begin the discussion. The superintendent reiterated the importance of understanding the difference between capital planning projects and general repair and maintenance issues. Capital planning is usually a multi-year group of projects. Such projects generally require a mix of bonding, grants, and revenues. The superintendent listed the capital projects that have been completed since FY 2000, which are attached. Secretary Van der Kloot pointed out that the pool and the boiler project should be added to the list. The superintendent stressed the importance of getting started. Capital projects often take multiple years to get approval from the funding agencies. Additionally, there are many non-school projects that need to be addressed. There must be a balance between city and school priorities as we go forward. Mayor Burke joined the meeting and assumed the chair. The mayor was attending a city council meeting. Each committee member was provided with a packet of materials. The superintendent identified capital plan proposed on August 5th, 2016 for the committee's reference. This discussion then reviewed the statement of interest, which was approved by the school committee at their last regular meeting. This is only the first step toward acquiring MSBA funding assistance. Dr. Heidi Riccio then detailed three grant awards that are moving forward to enable major improvements in program development. They are attached. The three grants are the Massachusetts Life Sciences Grant for $98,516, which will support the development of our robotics and engineering programs. Number two was the capital skills grant for $500,000 to support the development of our culinary and hospitality program. We will match this funding with both in-kind assistance from our partners in industry and labor. Also, we will use funding that is in the reserve contingency from the science labs project. This will require council approval. Third is regional services grant for $200,000 to expand our shops to accommodate enrollment increases. The focus of this grant will be on our electrical program and related areas. It will facilitate the inclusion with students from Everett who will pay a tuition. Currently, we have 25 Everett students. We expect to increase the number of tuition students to 100 over time. We are also recapturing tuitions from Minuteman. The grants will be supplemented by in-kind work by the laborers and Wynn, as well as the other industry partners. The development of our shop spaces will also enable us to serve adult learners and to maximize the use of our facility. The laborers will also help increase handicap accessibility. The discussion moved to the high school roof, see infrared roof survey. The high school roof needs some small repairs. that could be accomplished for about $25,000 to $30,000 this summer. We would expect to consider roof replacement beginning with 2020. This would be done in sections. The outside schools are still in good shape. They have another 10 years before possible replacement. Mr. McLaughlin was present to ask your questions. Mr. McLaughlin then discussed the emergency repairs to the heating system pipes in A building. which is attached, a financial account was provided. Member Mia Mastone asked how we could find funding for this type of repair. Also why we are not finding money for building appearance projects. The superintendent explained that. he would have had to shut down a building if the repairs were not made. It is not uncommon to divert funding for emergency repairs. He also reiterated his plan to add additional funds to the operational budget next year for general repairs. Member Erinda Benedetto asked that the hanging wires in the conference room be removed from sight. Mr. Scurry urged more cosmetic work be done, and members Cugno and Van der Kloot recognized the need to do more with appearance, but supported the priority of emergency repairs. Ms. Van der Kloot asked for a report on the bleachers at our K-8 schools. The superintendent referenced the report from Mr. McLaughlin regarding the need to repair air conditioning compressors. While the schools are functional, there could be better efficiency. There's also an attached listing there. Curb replacement and parking lot resurfing was discussed with emphasis on the high school McGlynn and Andrews. A report is attached. Playground replacement at the elementary schools was discussed. Pricing is now being sought. There is some possible mitigation linkage from a developer to assist with the Roberts playground. The committee received the draft executive summary for our school technology. As we move forward, technology is central to our educational and operational programs. Testing, state, federal funding, reporting, and instruction are more and more dependent on a robust and reliable technology, sorry, infrastructure and tools. We are eligible for substantial funding from the e-rate program under Tier 2. This will require a 40% match. Technology capital investment must be an essential part of our capital plan. Almost made it. On the motion of Mr. Skerry, seconded by Ms. Cugno, the meeting was adjourned at 8.55 p.m.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I've asked the students if they could just stay up here so perhaps we could do a photo. The other thing that I would like to do is I would like to put forth a resolution that the Medford Public Schools pay for our students to attend the competition in North Carolina. And if Mr. Eisner is willing, we certainly would certainly appreciate his accompanying our team in doing whatever we can do, because I am so, so proud of you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Mrs. Mustone is absent, but she'd vote yes, I know that. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We all know that Jean Barry Sutherland meant an awful lot to this community. She was a remarkable woman, both in her life and also as she was approaching the end of her life, and was really an inspiration in so many ways for all of us. This is very fitting, and I'm thankful to her husband, Thomas, for making this a lasting tribute to her on our school grounds, which she loves so dearly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno. Mrs. DiBenedetto. Mrs. Kreatz. Mrs. Mastone. Mr. Scurry. Yes. Mrs. Vanderklift. Yes. Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Beverly, I thought that the last year that we've been setting in more like seven snow days, not five. So I was surprised to see that this was, in my eyes, rolled back to five. I would have thought that we would have called the end of school the 22nd, for instance, so to set expectations that it could go that late. So I'd like the superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I guess I'm looking at it a different way. If I'm a parent thinking about making plans, If you say the end of the school is the 22nd, well, then I'm going to be thinking I'm going to make my plans starting the 23rd. If you say it's the 20th, then I'm going to start making them the 21st.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like some other feedback, but I'm thinking that it's better to set people's expectations that there could be the possibility, because if we go back to two years ago in 2015 when we had so many snowstorms. I think it's an expectation thing. What do others think?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. If we just did some further clarification. Okay, fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we used to go back in Medford after Labor Day. And in fact, many families preferred it. Um, and certainly the teachers did. The fact of the matter was with them, we were running into a problem because we were going too late too far into June because we were getting more snow days. We went through a period of years where we're getting a lot of snow days. And so with the cooperation of the teachers union, we then moved it back. Is it preferable? Well, not necessarily. It depends on who you talk to. But it's because of, I mean, if we could predict snow days, we wouldn't be doing this, but we can't. And if teachers were unhappy, they were really, really, really unhappy if, you know, school went to June 30th or, you know, when it went that late. So that's why.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great. Also, if I can follow up, I was wondering if you're seeing students who are concerned about their family's immigration status, if that's causing any angst?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Klooten. I'm not quite sure what you said in that. So a freshman can't take art and band together?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So is that for the whole school year, they would just have one elective?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So if they wanted to take So if one of the electives was guitar, they would take guitar for the whole school year. Correct.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the pro of this is? I mean, the advantage?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. OK. The opposite of that is I got into an elective and I don't really like that one, but I love the other one I'm taking. So there's pros and cons.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Um, will they get graded in that CTE exploration?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just wanted to make sure that we have enough people in the schools. I know you're saying you're working on it. I was thinking about a meeting I attended recently down at one of the middle schools. And at that point, there was no school nurse present. There was, in fact, maybe the only person present might have been a principal. So that if I was a parent attending, or for that matter, a school committee member attending with a history of heart disease in the family, you know, just make sure that it would be great if we could really encourage as many people as possible to learn how to do this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Superintendent didn't say anything about forcing people to do it who didn't want to do it. I'm thinking that there are people who, in fact, would like to learn how to do it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha? Here. Mrs. DiVendita? Present. Mrs. Vanderpool? Present. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha? Yes. Mrs. DiVenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Estella is absent. Mr. Skerry? Yes. Mrs. Van De Kloet, yes. May I vote?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion for approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The meeting was called to order by Vice Chairperson Anne Marie Pugno at 7.06 p.m. President Superintendent Roy Bellson, Deputy Superintendent Beverly Nelson, Assistant Superintendent Diane Caldwell, Vocational Principal Director Heidi Riccio, Director of Finance and Administration Christine Patterson, and Director of Buildings and Grounds John McLaughlin, parents Sarah O'Grady, Melissa McGinnis, Carolyn Montello, and Michelle Ciccolo, all rose to salute the flag. Vice Chair Cunha stated the purpose of the meeting was to continue our discussions on capital planning, projects for the Medford public schools. Vice Chair Cuno called upon the superintendent to begin the discussion. The superintendent reiterated the importance of understanding the difference between capital planning projects and general repair and maintenance issues. Capital planning is usually a multi-year group of projects. Such projects generally require a mix of bonding, grants, and revenues. The superintendent listed the capital projects that have been completed since FY 2000, which are attached. Secretary Van der Kloot pointed out that the pool and the boiler project should be added to the list. The superintendent stressed the importance of getting started. Capital projects often take multiple years to get approval from the funding agencies. Additionally, there are many non-school projects that need to be addressed. There must be a balance between city and school priorities as we go forward. Mayor Burke joined the meeting and assumed the chair. The mayor was attending a city council meeting. Oops. Each committee member was provided with a packet of materials. The superintendent identified capital plan proposed on August 5th, 2016 for the committee's reference. This discussion then reviewed the statement of interest, which was approved by the school committee at their last regular meeting. This is only the first step toward acquiring MSBA funding assistance. Dr. Heidi Riccio then detailed three grant awards that are moving forward to enable major improvements in program development. They are attached. The three grants are the Massachusetts Life Sciences Grant for $98,516, which will support the development of our robotics and engineering programs. Number two is the capital skills grant for $500,000 to support the development of our culinary and hospitality program. We will match this funding with both in-kind assistance from our partners in industry and labor. Also, we will use funding that is in the reserve contingency from the science labs project. This will require council approval. Third is regional services grant for $200,000 to expand our shops to accommodate enrollment increases. The focus of this grant will be on our electrical program and related areas. It will facilitate the inclusion with students from Everett who will pay a tuition. Currently we have 25 Everett students. We expect to increase the number of tuition students to 100 over time. We are also recapturing tuitions from Minuteman. The grants will be supplemented by in-kind work by the laborers and Wynn as well as the other industry partners. The development of our shop spaces will also enable us to serve adult learners and to maximize the use of our facility. The laborers will also help increase handicap accessibility. The discussion moved to the high school roof. See infrared roof survey. The high school roof needs some small repairs. that could be accomplished for about $25,000 to $30,000 this summer. We would expect to consider roof replacement beginning with 2020. This would be done in sections. The outside schools are still in good shape. They have another 10 years before possible replacement. Mr. McLaughlin was present to ask their questions. Mr. McLaughlin then discussed the emergency repairs to the heating system pipes in A building, which is attached. A financial account was provided. Member me I'm stony asked how we could fund find funding for this type of repair also why we are not finding money for building appearance projects the superintendent explained that He would have had to shut down a building if the repairs were not made. It is not uncommon to divert funding for emergency repairs. He also reiterated his plan to add additional funds to the operational budget next year for general repairs. Member Erinda Benedetto asked that the hanging wires in the conference room be removed from sight. Mr. Scurry urged more cosmetic work be done, and members Cugno and Van der Kloot recognized the need to do more with appearance, but supported the priority of emergency repairs. Ms. Van der Kloot asked for a report on the bleachers at our K-8 schools. The superintendent referenced the report from Mr. McLaughlin regarding the need to repair air conditioning compressors. While the schools are functional, there could be better efficiency. There's also an attached listing there. Curb replacement and parking lot resurfing was discussed with emphasis on the high school McGlynn and Andrews, a report is attached. Playground replacement at the elementary schools was discussed. Pricing is now being sought. There is some possible mitigation linkage from a developer to assist with the Roberts playground. The committee received the draft executive summary for our school technology. As we move forward, technology is central to our educational and operational programs. Testing, state, federal funding, reporting, and instruction are more and more dependent on a robust and reliable technology, sorry, infrastructure and tools. We are eligible for substantial funding from the e-rate program under tier two. This will require a 40% match. Technology capital investment must be an essential part of our capital plan. Almost made it. On the motion of Mr. Skerry, seconded by Ms. Cugno, the meeting was adjourned at 8.55 p.m. Respectfully submitted.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I've asked the students if they could just stay up here so perhaps we could do a photo. The other thing that I would like to do is I would like to make a put forth a resolution that the Medford Public Schools pay for our students to attend the competition in North Carolina. And if Mr. Eisner is willing, we certainly would certainly appreciate his accompanying our team in doing whatever we can do, because I am so, so proud of you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Mrs. Mustone is absent, but she'd vote yes, I know that. Mr. Skerry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much. You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We all know that Jean Barry Sutherland meant an awful lot to this community. She was a remarkable woman, both in her life, and also as she was approaching the end of her life and was really an inspiration in so many ways for all of us. This is very fitting, and I'm thankful to her husband, Thomas, for making this a lasting tribute to her on our school grounds, which she loves so dearly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno, Mrs. DiBenedetto, Mrs. Kreatz, Mrs. Mastone, Mr. Scurry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Vanderklift. Yes. Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, Van der Kloot. Beverly, I thought that the last year that we've been setting in more like seven snow days, not five. So I was surprised to see that this was, in my eyes, rolled back to five. I would have thought that we would have called the end of school the 22nd, for instance, so to set expectations that it could go that late. So I'd like the superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I guess I'm looking at it a different way. If I'm a parent thinking about making plans, if you say the end of the school is the 22nd, well, then I'm going to be thinking I'm going to make my plans starting the 23rd. If you say it's the 20th, then I'm going to start making them the 21st.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like some other feedback, but I'm thinking that it's better to set people's expectations that there could be the possibility, because if we go back to two years ago in 2015 when we had so many snowstorms, I just, I think it's an expectation thing. What do others think?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. If we just did some further clarification. Okay, fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we used to go back in Medford after Labor Day. And in fact, many families preferred it. And certainly the teachers did. The fact of the matter was with them, we were running into a problem because we were going too late. too far into June because we were getting more snow days. We went through a period of years where we were getting a lot of snow days. And so, with the cooperation of the Teachers Union, we then moved it back. Is it preferable? Well, not necessarily. It depends on who you talk to, but it's because of — I mean, if we could predict snow days, we wouldn't be doing this, but we can't. And if teachers were unhappy, they were really, really, really unhappy if, you know, school went to June 30th or, you know, when it went that late. So, that's why.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great. I was also, if I can follow up, I was wondering if you're seeing students who are concerned about their family's immigration status, if that's causing any angst.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I'm not quite sure what you said in that. So a freshman can't take art and band together?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So is that for the whole school year, they would just have one elective? Yep. So if one of the electives was guitar, they would take guitar for the whole school year? Correct.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the pro of this is, I mean, the advantage?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. So just, you know, the opposite of that is I got into an elective and I don't really like that one, but I love the other one I'm taking. So there's pros and cons.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Will they get graded in that CTE exploration?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just wanted to make sure that we have enough people in the schools. I know you're saying you're working on it. I was thinking about a meeting I attended recently down at one of the middle schools, and at that point, there was no school nurse present. There was, in fact, maybe the only person present might have been a principal. So that if I was a parent attending, or for that matter, a school committee member attending with a history of heart disease in the family, you know, just make sure that it would be great if we could really encourage as many people as possible to learn how to do this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Superintendent didn't say anything about forcing people to do it who didn't want to do it. I'm thinking that there are people who, in fact, would like to learn how to do it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I would urge the superintendent as he considers this not to choose the third option all students proportionately share in the cost which was what was originally presented to us last week in reference to when the band trip. To me it just felt like that by doing it that way it could make students feel like their trip was more expensive because one of their fellow students needed a nurse. Instead I think that it would be much better for either us for us to decide that on whatever field trip there was a uniform every student puts 25 bucks into the kitty or whatever I mean just so that it was a uniform a cost to help offset the district's cost because option number one is the school system pays for the cost outright and that of course would be my choice but I'm also understanding that it is there's an expense and it could so by having some amount of money, but it would be uniform. So it wouldn't be for just one field trip or the other would be across the board. Every time there's a field trip, every student would have as part of the cost, a small charge.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the idea of having the kitty, if you would, would be so that money would be thrown into that. to help offset the costs. And it would be proportionate to, let's say it's a, if a, you know, $5 a day or something like that. I'm just speaking off the top of my head. So if it was a five-day field trip to Florida, the kids might put in 25 bucks.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So exactly. I'm recognizing that, and I'm also proposing a way to help offset it. And I certainly think that we're smart enough to come up with a way to do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If I could follow up, are you saying that if there's a field trip, let's suppose we're having two field trips as we are this year going to, or next year, Disney. So on one there's a student who has medical needs and needs a nurse, but on the other one there are no students. So, in that case, what you're saying is that group of kids where the parent is having, where there's medical needs for one student have to share that cost. But that other group of students, just because they happen to have none. So, in my mind, I would rather say, hey, let's develop a policy where everybody kicks something in. Okay? Everybody would benefit if there was a nurse. Everybody would, I mean, I just think it's more equitable and I think it takes away the onus or the burden of a student feeling that they were costing their peers more.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Point of information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But I just, the point of information is that we just had a field trip presented to us at our last meeting where this issue was brought up. And so, uh, one, maybe it was a general, It was a general idea. OK, I don't know. Yes. I mean, again, I don't know. But I just, you know, the superintendent, I think that the motion is a good one. We've asked him to develop something. I personally have feelings that I wish to express tonight and have done so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekoot? I should hasten to add, though, that if my colleagues were in agreement, I agree 100% with you, Ms. Mistone. Great. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: are we going to take a are we going out for a photo yeah
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kirsten. We're going to get you out of here before it snows.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, but we'll do it at the beginning of the meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I think this actually is for the superintendent. As a school committee member, I was not aware that we had sustained urgent repairs due to pipe leaks at the high school and bursts. Was that over the holiday break or was that in December when we, on that one cold snap we had?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So at this point, is that area repaired?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Has any section had to be closed down?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dollars.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I'm just thinking what's a minor versus an extraordinary repair. So that's what I was asking. OK, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I wanted to go back to the discussion about the Andrews. At the time we were doing the walkthroughs, Kathy Kreatz, my fellow school committee member and I, went to the Andrews. And we submitted to the superintendent a list, including the bleachers, the clock, the things that you guys mentioned. And also at that point, because I don't remember, I'd gone to some other schools too, some of those very same things, the bleachers, were on multiple. So I'm thinking that that's part of the capital plan, because that's when we already talked about some of those things. I think we sort of got to the point where we were going together, and then the superintendent said, because it was difficult to bring us all together, go. And Kathy and I just both happened to do that school. Great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just wanted to, I think the breakfast actually would be going up 40 cents per day. Is that correct? Is it $1.10 to $1.50? So $2 a week times how many weeks are there in a school year?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So 30, 40 weeks, general 36, you know, times two bucks, 72 bucks in the year just for the breakfast increase. So it's certainly with multiple kids adds up. if your student is having breakfast at school. I think at this point, it's appropriate. You're not asking us to take any action tonight, is that correct? You can if you want.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I do. I'm not asking for a subcommittee meeting on the rate hike. However, I am asking, it was traditional that we met somewhere along the line during the school year with the school lunch people, and it seems like it's been a long time since we've done that. I don't know whether at some point or another there used to be an advisory committee or whatever. Does any of that exist anymore?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Again, I'm not asking on it from a financial level.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kretsch? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Skerry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I had one question. Can I be a chaperone? That's a great verb.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Skerry? Yes. Mrs. Vanderquist? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno. Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto. Yes. Mrs. Kreatz. Yes. Mrs. Mustone. Yes. Mr. Skerry. Yes. Mrs. Vander Vliet. Yes. Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cugno? Yes. Mrs. DiBenedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kreatz? Yes. Mrs. Mustone? Yes. Mr. Scurry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burke?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: 29th. 29th?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to thank Cheryl for coming before us. Cheryl, you're great at searching out opportunities to get money for the students at the Robertson. I really appreciate that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Van der Kloot. Thank you, Mayor. I just wanted to mention, though, and I'm all for the M.A.S.C. and taking over this. When we voted on it last week, I put it forth. However, I do think that there is a cost incurred and it's an appropriate cost. I don't think that all of these services are completely free. So since you said free, I just don't want to mislead anybody in that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So much based on what I've talked to her under right, but we'll get we'll get right I think he gave us the number Around 9,000 or so.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion carried. Mayor Burke, I'm sure we'll have an opportunity later on to congratulate Mrs. DiCarlo and thank her for her work, but it would I can't let the moment pass. She's been an asset to our community. She's a great lady, and we will certainly need to celebrate her tenure with us and her retirement.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Mr. Superintendent recently the D ESC put out some new I don't know they didn't come up with regulations yet, but new discussion about possibilities of having students do work that had been prepared for them so that if we Um, and if the teacher, uh, had a elongated time out, there was an option other than, uh, attacking on school days at the end or whatever. Um I haven't read it completely. I was thinking that we would be talking about it. I definitely think that I understand that it's complex because you need to make sure that all students can access tricky in our community where not everyone necessarily will have access to a computer, but many will have access to phones now. You know, we're in a different age and all the kids that come in to volunteer at the hospital, they're all doing their homework on their phones. If you're not prepared to talk about that in depth tonight, I think that we should talk about it in a curriculum subcommittee meeting and plan. I see this not so much for the one or two day absence. I see this in the how to figure out in the event that we have a prolonged week, say a blizzard that keeps us all home, how we're going to be proactive about this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: under X. Means he'll be nice and close.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I have first the first thing I wanted to suggest or say that It also included all of those booster clubs or Athletic support groups as well. I Think September 1st is a bad day to pick Because it's you know often Labor Day weekend. I think it would make more sense to change it to September 15th or September 30th Okay I understand that you're in financial support, saying the relative wealth of where they stand. However, I get really uncomfortable, and you and I have had this discussion many times, when you start wanting to sound like Mr. Superintendent, micromanage who's going to go to what bank and whatever. Can't do that. Okay? We just can't do that. We understand. And if you were seeing all of them and you wanted to draw people together and have a discussion, that's be one thing. But I get really uncomfortable with the thought that you're going to tell the Medford Educational Foundation, or of which I, you know, belong, or a McGlynn PTO member or Columbus whatever, that, well, they can't have that fundraiser because somebody else is doing it. So I just want to put that out there and say, it makes me real nervous when you went down that path. And I don't think it's appropriate. I think when you get to number six, expenditures of funds must be done in coordination with the principal slash administration or whatever. Because for instance, the Medford Educational Foundation, We have a principal sign-off sheet. However, we've been known to work closely with administration to make sure that we are, in fact, not funding a program that would not be appropriate. And when I spoke up before, I do believe that the Educational Foundation would, in fact, benefit from something. Because we are a 501c3, and I think everybody who is a 501c this, you are required to have bylaws. Now, how formally you play them out is another thing. But somewhere in your organization, at some point, you have had bylaws. Because if you're a 501c3, you needed to have that. You needed to specify how the offices worked. So even though, Paul, I understand what you're saying and your concerns, some of that actually is called for by the nonprofit status. any way otherwise than that I think that we can send it to send it off but those were some of my initial concerns. Thank you. Mister zero.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. Are there any PTGs out there that would like to speak on this topic? Certainly, if you'd like to step forward.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It would be a shame if this conversation ended with any thought that we're not appreciative of the extraordinarily hard work of our PTOs, PTGs, booster clubs, and any other organization that gives up their time and effort to raise money for our students. I know from experience, I know from my time on the school committee and before that how hard people work and how often it is a very small group of people in the end who really bust their butt night after night making sure that all of the money is raised, that the kids get the opportunities. And so I just think that it's really important You know, many of you won't remember this, and the only two maybe in the room right now might be the superintendent and Diane Caldwell, remember that before I was on the school committee, one of the things that I did was an event called It's Your Night to Shine. And that was a thank you to all the volunteers, all the PTO members who busted their butts, Because way back then, as someone who was just beginning in all of this, it was so clear to me that there were a few people who just kept things going. And they were all, blessedly, that it's always somehow worked out that we have a group of parents at each and every school who will take this. And sometimes it's because the void, they see that no one else is there and they step in and they make it happen. So within all of this in this discussion, By putting in something like this, ultimately the desire is not to just oversee and enforce and say you have to do one more thing, but to be helpful, to be positive, and always to say thank you so much for the work that you do.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ms. Van der Kloot. Mr. Ruggiero, as a new colleague, I want you to know that I have no doubt at all that you meant no harm. that you meant to be speaking up for parents and, in fact, were responding to parents' requests. I know that. And I know that you did it thinking that you were doing the very best thing. I have no, absolutely no doubt about that at all. I don't think you meant to be heavy-handed. I don't think you meant to be, cause this uproar. I don't think so at all. I do think you were inexperienced and, frankly, you learned. Because you see, you know that it's caused great upset. That was very evident the other night. We agree that we've now got some new things that have come out of this maybe and maybe that's all for the better. But there were some really hurt feelings. The treasurer has asked for an apology. Saying I'm sorry doesn't cost you anything and it would help to move on. I understand that you didn't mean to hurt, but frankly, you did. It happened. It's happened to me. I didn't mean to, but it did. And I said, I'm sorry. Sometimes those two little words are just the easiest thing to say if they're heartfelt and meant, because I truly believe, I truly believe that you meant no harm. I look forward to working with you. I look forward to figuring out what it means to be a team. You and I have already had some discussions about personal styles, whatever. And, you know, in my view, it is time to move on. But in order for that to happen, you need to say something.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Before we leave tonight, I wanted to bring up one other discussion which I thought mr. Ruggiero might Today, mr. Ruggiero put online our packet of information and I think that There was One Piece which I was uncomfortable with which actually had to do with ski trip. It didn't have names on it But if there was names I wanted that to be posted I wasn't certain that I wanted Everybody in the public to know exactly where the kids were going what time they were going whatever just as a safety thing I think that it's long been a thought that I know other school committee members share that some of our documents rather than having this big stack of papers could be online for us as well and so I think that we should I think we should take both things together, figure out. There were some questions about afterwards, which people in the public raised, which I certainly wouldn't have thought about. So it was interesting input of saying, how do you best post our information for our meetings? So I'd like to make a motion, maybe in conjunction with Mr. Ruggiero, that we search how we're going to, effectively put our documents online, both for the public and also so that we can minimize the amount of paper that we have for our meetings. As a long-term school committee member, I can tell you that I could devote, I mean, whole rooms, buckets fills of these exist. And frankly, it's just way too much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ysgolwyr.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ysgolwyr Craigs. Ysgolwyr. Ysgolwyr. Ysgolwyr Sterry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Iawn. A yw'r cyfrifiadau'n ymwneud â'r cyfrifiadau yma? Iawn. A yw'r cyfrifiadau'n ymwneud â'r cyfrifiadau yma? Iawn. ac roedd yn fwy cost-effeithiol.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Nid, dim ond, roedd yn argyfwng anhygoel, felly... Felly, dydw i ddim wedi'i ysgrifennu drwy'r system ysgol, rydw i wedi'i ysgrifennu ar fy ngredydd ar gyfer hynny. Perfect, diolch.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Cymorth i ddathlu gan Mrs. Van der Kloot a Mrs. Cuno. Cymorth i ddathlu gan Mrs. Van der Kloot a Mrs. Cuno. Cymorth i ddathlu gan Mrs. Van der Kloot a Mrs. Cuno.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dwi'n meddwl y bydd hwn yn mynd i'r cyfarwyddwr. Dydw i ddim yn ymwybodol o'r cyfrifiad hwn rydyn ni wedi'i weld o'r blaen, fel y mae'n dweud fy nghyfranwyr, o ran cymryd cyfrifiad meddygol yn ei gilydd. Gallwch chi siarad â hyn i gyd? Y meddyg.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yn y cyfrifiad cyntaf.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mae'n dweud cyllideb ar gyfer y myfyrwyr, ac mae'n dweud, mae hyn yn cynnwys cyllideb ar gyfer cyrraedd gwybodaeth ar $1,700. Pan ddweud Haley, dweud y byddai hynny oherwydd y newyddau a'r rheoliadau newydd, os yw cyllideb angen ar gyfer un myfyrwyr ar y tro, yna mae'r cyllideb ar gyfer y myfyrwyr
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't know. Personally, I think that there should be a different way of doing it because if I'm... y myfyrwyr sydd ar y trwp sydd angen y ffyrwyr, ac rwy'n gwybod bod y blynyddoedd rydw i'n mynd yn costio mwy o arian i fyfyrwyr arbenigol, mae hynny'n teimlo'n anhygoel iawn i mi, felly dydw i ddim yn meddwl y byddwn ni wedi edrych ar hynny. Byddwn i eisiau gweld os oes unrhyw ffordd arall y gallwn ni ymdrech ar y syniad hon. Rwy'n deall beth rydych chi'n ei ddweud, beth yw'r broblem, ond rwy'n anhygoel o'r ffordd y byddai hyn yn gweithredu. Mae'n deimlo i mi y byddwn ni'n oherwydd y byddwch chi ddim yn eisiau cael y rest o'r myfyrwyr yn teimlo mai fy mhoblwg yw'n bwysig iawn, oherwydd roedd rhaid i mi gyflwyno gofal ar gyfer unrhyw un arall.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rwy'n gobeithio y byddwch chi'n dod i ni'r newydd ymddygiad sy'n ei ddweud hyn, er mwyn i ni edrych arno ar ei gilydd, ac yn ymddangos fy marn i y byddai hyn ddim yn teimlo'n ymddygiad. Nid yw'n rhywbeth sy'n mynd i gynhyrchu'r ymddygiad hwn, felly byddwn i'n gwneud cymorth y byddwn ni'n cyflawni'r ymddygiad yma'r diwrnod hwn, ond rwy'n gobeithio y byddwn ni'n gweld hynny.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mae'n dweud y bydd, ar unrhyw ffordd, os yw'r ffordd i Italy neu'r ffordd... O'r ffordd i Albania. O unrhyw ffordd, mae'n rhaid i'r meddyg fynd, oherwydd mae hi yno i ddangos... Y poblogaeth. Y poblogaeth o gofal meddygol i bawb. Mae hynny'n wahanol o'r ffordd y mae wedi'i gynhyrchu i ni yma. Rwy'n siŵr bod hynny'n rhywbeth sy'n ymwneud â Chwaraeon Ysgol i ddarganfod a gwneud hynny'n llwyr ynghylch ein polisi. I ddarganfod.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mae'n wybodaeth ddiddorol. Rwy'n meddwl y bydd y Comisiwn Ysgol yn cael y cyfle i drafoda'i ychydig yn fwyaf, gyda'r ddysgwyr yn cynnwys a'r rest o'r ymdrech. Oherwydd mae'n rhaid iddyn nhw fod yn cynnwys yn ein gysylltiadau ymddygiadol pan fyddwn ni wedi newid ein ymddygiad.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Cunha? Yes. Mrs. Di Benedetto? Yes. Mrs. Kress? Yes. Mrs. Bestow? Yes. Mr. Skerry? Yes. Mrs. Van der Kloot? Yes. Mayor Burkett?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roeddwn i'n cael cwestiynau am adroddiadau sgôr MCAS a gwirioneddau eraill. Yn ystod y blynyddoedd diwethaf, wrth gwrs, mae'n dda iawn iddyn nhw'n sefydliadol, i ddweud, edrychwch sut mae ein myfyrwyr yn cynyddu. Felly, roeddwn i'n ymwybodol o'r rhai o'r pethau hynny. Roeddwn i hefyd eisiau gwneud yn siŵr, wrth i ni drafod hynny, y bydd pawb yn deall nad yw hyn yn ddifrif o'r ysgol weithredol yn unrhyw ffordd, ond mewn gwirionedd, Rydyn ni wedi gweithio i wella'r ysgol bwriadol a'n ysgol fawr hefyd, ac mae'r gweithgaredd rhwng nhw'n yr hyn rydyn ni'n ei weld yn ei wneud. Ond nid yw'n ymwneud â'r ffaith, pan fyddwch chi'n eu clywed, y byddai'n debyg ei fod yn cael ei wneud mewn ffyrdd gwraidd. Felly rwy'n credu bod hynny'n bwysig iawn y byddwn ni'n mynd ac mae gennym ychydig mwy o drafodaeth ar hynny, er mwyn ysgrifennu hyn i'n gymuned ynghylch beth y bydd ein syniadau'r dyfodol yn gallu bod.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Felly gallaf gofyn, a oes yna... Rwy'n credu bod yna broblem ychydig yma, oherwydd wrth i chi siarad am y standardau, nid yw'r Ymgeiswyr yn dda iawn gyda'r standardau, felly mae'n teimlo'n ychydig. Yn amlwg, roedd ein broblem yn ein bod ni'n gwella addysg ysgolion ysgolion i'w gynhyrchu'r myfyrwyr yn gyflym. Yn ystod hyn, yw yna, er enghraifft, mwy o weithgareddau ar gael ar gyfer y myfyrwyr, a yw'r... Mae'n cwestiwn gwych.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: sut maen nhw'n gallu helpu'r plant gyda ddysg, y ffordd rydyn ni'n ei wneud ar gyfer math a llyfrgell? Ie, mae hynny'n mynd i fod yn cyfleoedd addas.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roeddwn i'n siarad gyda grwpiau o blant, ac maen nhw wedi dweud i mi bod eu plentyn ddim wedi cael gwaith ddysg. Roeddwn i'n teimlo cymhwyster. Dyna rhan o'r hyn rydw i'n ceisio ysgrifennu yma. i ddweud, okay, sut ydyn ni'n mynd i'r ymdrechion hwnnw'n ffwrdd. Felly dyna'r hyn rwy'n ymdrech ar. Felly, Brif Weinidog, os ydw i'n gallu, fel rydych chi'n gwybod, bydd y seriâd InVision'n cael'i pagu.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Nid, rydw i'n dda. A ydyn ni'n angen un cyfrifiad, un cyfrifiad i'r un hwn? Rydw i. Iawn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Iawn. Ms. Cuno. Iawn. Mr. Benedetto. Iawn. Ms. Krets. Iawn. Ms. Mestone. Iawn. Mr. Scurry. Iawn. Ms. Van der Kloot. Iawn. Mayor Burke.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ms. Vandekloot. Mr. Zigney, I waited all day today knowing that the students were gonna be here, anticipating, knowing what joy you would bring us. And it was joy over the last two weeks. I managed to attend every concert this winter season, and it was just thrilling, whether it's a group of 12, or I don't know, 14 students you have tonight, or 125 or 30, I don't know, there's so many on the stage. It's amazing that you managed to do it. And Miss Chang as well, wonderful concert, the choir concert was great. They were absolutely fabulous and we're really proud of our students and thank you very much Mr. Zigny for bringing them to us tonight and always.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I too would like to just extend the thanks of this of myself and the school committee and also for all of those students in the future who are going to receive the generous scholarship because of your generosity tonight. So thank you very much. We really appreciate that you've come down and this was just before my time on the school committee but I know that Leia's reputation was someone I heard of and was very very well known and very well respected so thank you so much and thank you for reminding us tonight during this holiday season of the tremendous people we've had in our past. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I just wanted to thank the parents for coming down and bringing the kids tonight. My favorite part was hearing the kids tell us about their projects. Obviously, there's a whole lot going on at the Columbus School, and it's really great. I'm very familiar with the Little Free Libraries. I first ran across them in a Chicago neighborhood when I was visiting, and so I'm so proud that we have one now right outside the Columbus School. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I would just like to take a moment to comment on remembering Jean Barry. Jean was such an exceptional individual, a teacher who just loved what she did, a administrator and a community member, and lastly, a fighter who waged such an incredible fight and with such a wonderful, always upbeat, always lovely personality. So I just take a minute to remember Jean Barry because over the years in the school committee, she was certainly one of the first teachers that I got to know well and one who I certainly felt had a very large impact on our students. And I remember her both professionally and personally. She's a great lady.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I just did have a question about the cost. I thought it was significantly lower when you and I talked, Mr. Superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I think they're going to speak and someone could speak on the cost.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Mr. Belson, just to remind you, the other day when you and I talked, you may have forgotten this, but you told me it was about $40 per instrument.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, you've said a lot of things and I need to tell you that as a school committee member. First of all, because I know many of the people who are involved in this company and have known them over years. because of their professional positions in Medford and as Medford residents. That in fact, in my eyes, the way to look at this statute is to say, what does the statute say? And in fact, if you would, divorce myself from the people involved. The statute says that we should be telling parents that there is a option for sanitation, period. Sterilization. Sorry. Sterilization. Period. That's okay. That's what the statute says. And what I understand us to be voting on tonight is simply, are we going to accept it? And then incumbent on us is to let parents know whose children are renting instruments, um, uh, that they should be, um, that, that there is this option and it is an option. That's what I'm voting on. If I have some blinders on, it's purposeful because I don't want to get involved with personalities or, or whatever. I think it's, for me, it's a clear cut. There's a statute. It says that this would be, that's what the legislature has told us. I don't have any hidden agenda.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The one concern that I do have is I think that it's incumbent on us that we want to make sure that the flyer which is going out to the parents is acceptable to us. I think it probably should have a website for the parents attached to it for more information. I don't want to scare every parent thinking that their kid now is going to die if they don't do this. I think that we want to let them know that it is an option for them and consistent with the statute. So I just want to make sure. I haven't seen a flyer yet that would go out to the parent, but rather than that flyer going directly to the music company or through whatever, I want to make sure that we have administrative oversight of that flyer.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was going to suggest we move the question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam Mayor, may I ask? Ms. Vander Kloof. Does it make any sense to suspend the rules to pick up the adoption of Medford Conversations Project?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I understand, Erin, exactly what you're trying to say, that we've been a positive place and we want to keep on staying that way. And that's why we're going to go ahead and say this. I have to tell you, and neither of these incidents happened inside or with anybody involved in Medford. But I have been shocked within the last two months of two very different incidents that were so outrageous to me personally of discrimination and, uh, inappropriate hate. Um, and one was, you know, I went to a craft show and I don't want to go into it here. Although if anybody wants to know, I'll, I'll talk to you personally about what happened and something else which happened with words that were totally inappropriate. And somehow I feel that in the political climate that took place over the past year, it is unleashed a firestorm. And so this is the appropriate time to go public and just to reaffirm our values.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam Mayor, thank you Beverly. I called Mr. Cieri today and unfortunately he didn't get back to me and now I know why. Because I wanted to let him know that also in addition to that the Medford Educational Foundation just approved our grants and our grant cycle. One of them is for materials for Medford's youngest learners in the kindergarten, for owl pellets across the kindergartens, across the city of Medford in every school, which if anybody hasn't done an owl pellet, you take the pellet apart and the kids find the things that the owl has eaten and it's all very exciting. And we've also approved one at the high school level, the remotely operated underwater vehicle. So those are two things that will be added to the list and we've actually got one more. that we're going to be talking to Mr. Cieri about. So he better get back here quickly, right? Well, you know, let him recover.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Vanderclute? So, Beverly, would these be courses that a student is doing at home or during school time?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If I can continue, does this particular product allow for a different usage? Say a student didn't fail the course but they got a D and now they're a senior and they're realizing that that D is really going to hurt them or that they really need the content of that course. Is there a way to use it as a review or possibly to improve their grade?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the other question I have, the only thing that makes me uncomfortable in the protocol you've put forth is the absolute. No outside of district programs will be accepted for credit recovery. My preference actually would be no outside of district programs will be accepted. for credit recovery unless approved by the assistant superintendent or something. We could do that. The reason for that is because I think that you can't foresee everything. And there might be a reason why it makes sense. And if we're going to adopt this as a policy, my preference is for oversight and for the unexpected. So I would move if it's acceptable. will be accepted for credit recovery unless approved by, and you can decide whether it's the assistant superintendent, the superintendent, the department head, whatever.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Director of guidance. Director of guidance, that sounds good.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I think that I disagree with you that we don't, I mean we don't have any way to control it, but we certainly have a way or should think about how are we introducing to students this issue of sexting and what the long-term and short-term ramifications are. I believe it was in that very article that you gave us last week, that excellent article that you gave us in our last folder, which talked about the uptick. And it isn't high school students. It is the, you know, starting at middle school. So I think it's a very important conversation to have. One of the things that I found on the Internet just this past week is whatever is, you know, someone had 1 times 9 equals 7, 2 times 9 equals 18, 3 times 9 equals 27, and it went on. And then said, and the teacher put it on a blackboard. And right away the kids started going, the teacher, you made a mistake, you made a mistake. And even though all the other ones were right, The only one that they talked about was the wrong one. And when you do something wrong, I mean, it was such an easy how that can follow you. That's the thing that people see. And I thought it was such a concrete example that should be presented to kids about saying, you know, this is the problem. If you make that mistake and all of a sudden you write something out or you send a picture to somebody. it's going to follow you. So, you know, I don't think it's just, I think the policy that you presented to us, which we will need to follow up, is a piece of the puzzle, but it's not the entire puzzle. I think that what Mia is talking about, if I may, Mia, if I think, is sort of saying is how are we making sure that within the scope of our conversations as we seek to educate our kids about social and emotional issues, that sexting becomes part of the topic.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think we just need to be clear. I did not hear that this is happening in the Medford Public Schools. We are hearing that there is a concern about it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. One question. I was surprised that you picked a Monday.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Klooth. I do want to thank my colleague for attending and voting for us. I also attended and we had the opportunity to talk down there. And as usual, it was, you know, interesting to hear people's discussion about the various different resolutions. So thanks, Bob.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Miss Van der Kloot. Hi. First, Miss Glasser, thank you for organizing this and working with our students. I do have a couple of questions. I'm curious whether it's a private charter airline or a regular airline.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All the major ones. Is the Zika virus an issue in the Dominican Republic?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My last question is, I'm just curious, it looks like you're going to be staying in the Central Mountain region at some point. Where are you staying? What sort of accommodations are the kids in?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, as you're doing that, I'll just mention that I also went on a service trip to the Dominican Republic about five, six years ago, and it was an incredible experience.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I believe there's a motion. I'll second the motion. Ms. Cuno.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Yes, I was just thinking, I remember Charlie when he was in high school. and I remember him at the pep rally. And it's so nice to have seen how he's grown and matured and now is giving back to our community in so many ways. There's something very special about it. I also just want to mention that while I was not able to attend, I know about Noah's interest in World War II memorabilia, and it's truly phenomenal, and so I'm really appreciative to him, son of school committee member. Cathy Kreatz, that he is sharing that with people and I just think that's fantastic.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: As you know, I was at the conference and spent quite a bit of time there. I think that the only thing which was unfortunate was that more members of the committee were not able to come this year, because it's not only about talking about the The issues at hand are attending the different conference sessions. It's also about networking, talking to other school committee members, talking, giving, having a chance to talk about issues. with your colleagues while you're there. It's difficult because for me it was three days off from my own job, but it is really worthwhile in the long run and I hope that next year that more people will be able to attend. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: – Yes. In looking at the data, there's one thing to me which is a little unclear. It uses the entire population, 4,529 students, but it doesn't break it down into levels. I mean, so you could assume or jump to the conclusion that all of these things are taking place at the high school, which there are not many. I want to be clear about that. But that's not necessarily true, or perhaps I don't have the data that tells me whether they're high school or middle school.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the data, as far as I'm looking at it, would be more helpful if we were to break it down between elementary, middle, and high. We can do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Madam Mayor, can I just ask for a clarification on the time on Wednesday? What time does it begin and what time do you... I believe it's 4.30. And what, how long do you expect it to run? It will go till 7.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I do want to thank my colleague for attending and voting for us. I also attended and we had the opportunity to talk down there. And as usual, it was, you know, interesting to hear people's discussion about the various different resolutions. So thanks, Bob. Very good. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Hi. First, Ms. Glasser, thank you for organizing this and working with our students. I do have a couple questions. I'm curious whether it's a private charter airline or a regular airline?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All the major ones. Is the Zika virus an issue in the Dominican Republic?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My last question is, I'm just curious. It looks like you're going to be staying in the Central Mountain region at some point. Where are you staying? What sort of accommodations are the kids in?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: As you're doing that, I'll just mention that I also went on a service trip to the Dominican Republic about five, six years ago, and it was an incredible experience.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I believe there's a motion. I'll second the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. van de Kloot. Yes, I was just thinking, I remember Charlie when he was in high school. and I remember him at the pep rally, and it's so nice to have seen how he's grown and matured and now is giving back to our community in so many ways. There's something very special about it. I also just want to mention that while I was not able to attend, I know about Noah's interest in World War II memorabilia, and it's truly phenomenal, and so I'm really appreciative to him son of school committee member Kathy Kreatz that he is sharing that with people and I just think that's fantastic.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: As you know, I was at the conference and spent quite a bit of time there. I think that the only thing which was unfortunate was that more members of the committee were not able to come this year, because it's not only about talking about the the issues at hand or attending the different conference sessions. It's also about networking, talking to other school committee members, having a chance to talk about issues with your colleagues while you're there. It's difficult because, for me, it was three days off from my own job. But it is really worthwhile in the long run. And I hope that next year that more people will be able to attend. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. In looking at the data, there's one thing to me which is a little unclear. It uses the entire population, 4,529 students, but it doesn't break it down into levels. I mean, so you could assume or jump to the conclusion that all of these things are taking place at the high school, which there are not many. I want to be clear about that. But that's not necessarily true, or perhaps I don't have the data that tells me whether they're high school or middle school.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So the data, as far as I'm looking at it, would be more helpful if we were to break it down between elementary, middle, and high. We can do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Madam Mayor, can I just ask for a clarification on the time on Wednesday? What time does it begin and what time do you... I believe it's 4.30. And what, how long do you expect it to run? It will go till 7.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: ar 24 Oktobr, ac roeddwn i'n gofyn i'r cyfrifiadur ar 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cyfrifiadur ar y 6.45. Roeddwn i'n cy Yn ogystal â'r ymrwymiad sydd wedi'i ddysgu, a oedd ymwneud ag ysgrifennu'r elementau o'r ysgrifennu'r cyllideb cyllideb a gwneud ymrwymiad o'r ysgrifennu, roeddwn i'n gofyn i'r Prif Weinidog, Belson, ar gyfer gwybodaeth o'r ysgrifennu'r dydd. Roedd y Prif Weinidog yn rhoi copïau addas o'r ysgrifennu cyllideb a'r adroddiad o'r ysgrifennu cyllideb sy'n ymwneud â'r adroddiad hon. Roedd y Prif Weinidog wedi'i ddysgu na fyddai'n gallu y ond y byddai'r Prif Weinidog a'r Prif Weinidog, gyda'r Director McGlaughlin, yn cydweithredu argyfwngau cyhoeddus i'w gweld. Byddai'r tôn ar gyfer cynyddu technoleg yn cael ei ysgrifennu i'r sesiwn ddiweddaraf, oherwydd roedd hwn yn tôn cyhoeddus gyda'r cyfathrebuau sylweddolaethol. Mae'r systemau cyhoeddus, fel y rwyf a'r HVAC, yn rhaid bod yn rhan o'n cynllun cymdeithasol hefyd. Rydyn ni wedi gwneud astudio rwyf a byddwn ni'n cael argyfwng ar gyfer y dyfodol. Mae'r Prif Weinidog wedi'i ar gyfer y cyfraniadau ar gyfer y cyfraniadau ar gyfer y cyfraniadau ar gyfer y cyfraniadau ar gyfer Yn ddiweddaraf, mae'n rhaid i ni fuddsoddi at ein rhaglenoedd mewn ffordd strategaethol, ac yn cyhoeddi'r dyfodol, nid dim ond i gynyddu'r sefydliad ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer y cyfnod ar gyfer Yn gyntaf, rydyn ni'n mynd i'r Llyfrgell. Dr. Pirella sefydluodd y ffyrdd y mae'r Llyfrgell wedi'i newid o'i dylunio'n gyntaf dros y 45 mlynedd diwethaf. Roedd yn ymddangos bod y llun naturol wedi cael ei rannu i'r adnodd o nifer o chymdeithasau gweithredu, ac hefyd y bydd yr ymddygiad genedlaethol o'r Llyfrgell wedi'i ymddygiadu. Byddai'n ei gynllun i'w newid i'r Llyfrgell i mewn i sefydliad cymdeithas cymdeithasol sy'n ymddangos ar y datblygu technoleg. Yn ddiweddaraf, roedd y dylunio cyntaf a'r cynllunio wedi'i ddechrau fel argyfwng o Gymdeithas XQ Project Academy o'r Pwysigrwydd. Cynllunio'r Llyfrgell ddiweddaraf gyda chyfathrebu i gynllunio'r dylunio gan ddefnyddio'r gwybodaeth o dylunwyr archwilio. Cynllunio'r nesaf i'r Ysgol Gwybodaethol. Yn ddiweddaraf, rwy'n gweithio gyda'r Llyfrgell. Yn ddiweddaraf, rwy'n gweithio gyda'r Llyfrgell. Yn ddiweddaraf, rwy'n gweithio gyda'r Llyfrge Rydyn ni'n ymweld â'r cynllun ymdrechion a'r ysgrifennodd sut y bydd y rhaglenau cyfnodol yn cael eu cymryd. Bydd Medford yn ymweld â gwybodaeth ar gyfer sgiliau cymdeithasol leol, ond bydd yn amlwg i'r cyfrifiadau ar gyfer sefydliad. Bydd hyn yn cynnwys llinellau gŵr a gwasanaethau, ymdrechion, llwybrau, dŵr, cymdeithas ADA. Mae'r gwybodaeth hwn yn cael ei ddatrys gan y Gweinidog, gyda'r cyfrifiadau sy'n cael eu gwneud ym mis Decembr. Bydd y gwasanaeth ar gyfer sy'n grwpio'r arferion gwahanol i'r clwsterau. Bydd y datblygiad byth yn cael ei ddefnyddio gyda'r Ysbyty Gweinidog a'r hyn sy'n gallu ei wneud o ran eu cyhoeddiadau a'u gynlluniau. Yn ystod y cyfarfodydd, y Comisiwn wedi ymgyrchu yn yr ystafell y cyfarfodydd i ymgyrchu'r ystafell. Roedd y Prif Weinidog yn dweud y byddai'n anodd ymwneud â chyfathrebu rhai rhaglenni fel ychydig o ddyniadau cyntaf a'r ystafell gweithredu i ddod o hyd i areau i ddatblygu y rhaglen. Bydd y wedi'i gynhyrchu ar 8.45 p.m. Ac os gallaf ddod yn ôl, roedd y ffyrdd a'r sylwadau rydyn ni wedi'u cynhyrchu ar y cyfarfod yn wirioneddol gwych ac yn ddiddorol iawn, ac rydych chi'n mynd yn ôl ac rydych chi'n teimlo eich bod chi ddim yn edrych ar y pethau fach o gynhyrchu, sy, wrth gwrs, mae'n anodd iawn, ond mewn sylwadau mwyaf a plan i'r dyfodol. Diolch.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yr aelodau sy'n ymdrech. Yr aelodau sy'n ymdrech.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yr aelodau sy'n ymdrech.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi. A couple of different things. First of all, it looks like it's going to be an interesting and exciting program. And as you guys know, I just attended the school committee Yn ystod y diwrnod diwethaf, rydyn ni'n gweithio gyda'r Llywodraeth, ac rydyn ni'n gweithio gyda'r Llywodraeth, ac rydyn ni'n gweithio gyda'r Llywodraeth, ac rydyn ni'n gweithio gyda'r Llywodraeth, ac rydyn ni'n gweithio gyda'r Llywodraeth, ac rydyn ni'n gweithio gyda'r Llywodraeth, ac rydyn ni'n gweithio gyda'r Llywodraeth, ac rydyn ni'n gweithio gyda'r Llywodraeth, ac rydyn ni'n gweithio gyda'r Llywodraeth, ac rydyn ni'n gweithio yn hapus iawn i weld bod yna gweithdai ar gyfer y paraproffesiynwyr. Rwy'n credu bod hynny'n hollbwysig. Wrth i mi ddysgu'r llyfr sydd wedi'i rhoi i'r ffacwliad, rwy'n sylweddoli bod hynny wedi bod yn rhywbeth rydw i wedi'i ychwanegu ar un pwynt ac yna wedi'i gobeithio amdanyn nhw. Ond byddai'n deimlo i mi y byddwn i'n hoffi, yn hytrach na'r myfyrwyr sy'n rhaid iddyn nhw ddod i gael gynnyrch eu hunain, y byddwn i'n gallu cynnyrchu, y byddai'r ysgolion cyhoeddus as a thank you, because somehow or another it strikes me when we're doing a day of professional development for our valued teachers that the least we could do is to say, hey, lunch is on us. So if I could put it in the form of a motion that next year at a professional development day, or if it comes later this day, that the Medford Public Schools would provide lunch for our teachers, I just I just think it would be a wonderful thing. So if I could make that motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So write it down. Okay. Sorry we couldn't do it this year, but at least next year it should happen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yn ddiweddaraf, rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n gweithio'n fawr iawn, ac rydw i'n roedd ganddyn nhw'n deall yr hyn y mae'r candidatau'n eu rhoi ar gyfer yr ymdrech, sydd, fel rydym yn gwybod, weithiau wedi bod yn anodd ym mhryd y flwyddyn hwn. Felly, o unrhyw ffordd, roedd hynny'n unig ymddangos eich socsau, yn dda.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Y personau oedd yn anhygoel. Yn yr un cyfnod, roeddwn i'n eisiau cydnabod y bydd y myfyrwyr y cymdeithasol ym MhS wedi datblygu fideo arbennig sy'n cyfrannu ag ymddygiad dynol, oherwydd bod Iawn. Iawn. Iawn. Iawn. Iawn. yn cael eu cymryd ar y 5 Decembr. Yn ogystal â'r cyfarfod honaf, roeddwn i'n cymryd amser i fynd ar-lein ac i edrych arno. Mae'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn. Roedd e'n hollbwysig iawn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: place on October 24th and was called to order by myself at 645. Present were Erinda Benedetto, Kathy Kreatz, Mia Mastone, Robert Scurry, and myself. Five school committee members present, two absent. Also present was Superintendent Belson, Headmaster Perella, Vocational Principal Director Heidi Riccio, Director of Buildings and Grounds John McLaughlin, and parent Cheryl Rodriguez. After saluting the flag, And after the purpose of the meeting was stated, which was to review the high school vocational school elements of the proposed capital plan and to do a selected tour of the facility, I called on Superintendent Belson for an overview of the evening's meeting. The superintendent handed out additional copies of the capital plan and a prepared document proposal from the vocational school, which is attached to this report. The superintendent stated that it would not be possible to view the entire high school or vocational school in one evening, but that the headmaster and vocational principal, along with Director McLaughlin, would identify priority sites for viewing. The topic of overall technology upgrades would be referred to a subsequent session, since this was a major topic with system-wide implications. Major systems like the roof and HVAC must be part of our overall planning as well. We have done a roof study and will have a recommendation in the near future. The superintendent then explained that capital planning must be focused on major projects, general maintenance upgrades for the most part belonging in an enhanced operational budget. Also, that school system capital needs would be part of a larger citywide initiative. Further, it is important that we view capital plan issues not only as upgrades to facilities, but also as part of a long-term vision for the development of school system capacity and educational opportunities. He went on to say, as we recapture certain Out of district payments, we must reinvest into our programs in a strategic manner and anticipate the future, not just to upgrade the present facility bit by bit. Committee members recognized the capital mission, but wanted the administration to plan for greater maintenance investment going forward. The committee then began a tour of selected sites led by headmaster and vocational principal director and buildings and grounds director. First, we went to the library. Dr. Perella focused on the ways the library has been altered from its original design over the past 45 years. He noted that natural lighting has been lost to the addition of several office spaces and also that the general condition of the library has deteriorated. It would be his plan to redesign the library into an open space media center reflecting upon the advance of technology. The library would flow into the courtyard and be a multipurpose epicenter for students and faculty exploration and utilization. He explained that the initial design and planning had already begun as a result of the XQ Project Academy of the Possible. The tour of the library ended with an agreement to formalize the design by utilizing the expertise of an architect engineer. The next tour moved to the vocational school. Director Riccio explained that her number one priority was the relocation of the culinary arts and hospitality program to an accessible location for the general public. The director reviewed the draft floor plan and explained how the current programs would be moved. Medford will pursue a state capital skills grant, but it will require matching funds for construction. This would include gas and water lines, electricity, flooring, lighting, doors, ADA accessibility. This grant is now being released by the Commonwealth with applications due in December. The total revamp of the vocational school beyond the culinary arts hospitality project will involve the development of an academy model that groups the various offerings into like clusters. Long-term development should be pursued in conjunction with MSBA to the extent possible under their priorities and guidelines. The committee then reconvened in the conference room to recap their tour. The superintendent indicated that it will be necessary to consider the relocation of certain programs such as early childhood, and office space to free up areas for program development. The committee will await follow-up materials to continue its capital planning for the complex. The meeting was adjourned at 8.45 p.m. And if I could just add, the tour and the vision that we were presented with at the was truly inspirational and very exciting. And you take the step back and you realize you're not just looking at the smaller pieces of maintenance, which of course are extremely necessary, but kind of a bigger vision and a plan into the future. Thank you. Thank you very much, Ms. Van der Kloot. Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. I'd like to provide an update on the crossing guide. Kathy, is it? Yeah. Oh, am I? Oh, can you hear me?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, sorry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Hi. A couple of different things. First of all, it looks like it's going to be an interesting and exciting program. And as you guys know, I just attended the school committee conference down at the Cape this past couple of days last week and it was all centered on social emotional learning. One of the truly exceptional parts that we heard about was from a woman who made just an incredible presentation and I would like to tell my colleagues more about it at a different point. However, it looks great. A couple of different things. I am extremely happy to see that there is a workshop for the paraprofessionals. I think that's terrific. And as I read the letter that was put out to faculty, and I realized that this had been something that I had caught at one point and then forgot about it, but it would seem to me that next year I would like that rather than teachers having to bring their own bag lunch that we could supply, the Medford Public Schools could supply lunch for our teachers. as a thank you, because somehow or another it strikes me when we're doing a day of professional development for our valued teachers that the least we could do is to say, hey, lunch is on us. So if I could put it in the form of a motion that next year at a professional development day, or if it comes later this day, that the Medford Public Schools would be I would provide lunch for our teachers. I just think it would be a wonderful thing. So if I could make that motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So write it down. OK. Sorry we couldn't do it this year, but at least next year it should happen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Madam Mayor, myself and school committee member Kathy Kreatz were able to attend the wonderful mock presidential debate and it was so much fun and our students just did such a great job. They did a particularly good job in really trying to develop really some understanding of what the candidates were putting forth for policy, which, as we all know, has sometimes been difficult this year. So, anyway, it was just, knock your socks off, great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, well, the personas were just stunning. But in the same handout, I just wanted to bring attention that the media students at MHS have developed a special video which takes a stand against domestic violence. and because October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Mr. Jack Dempsey, the media teacher, submitted a copy to the video to the MIAA, and though we didn't win this year, but remember we won last year, so someone else has to have a turn, they were so impressed with it, and that it's going to be used, be presented, for their wellness educators workshop being held on December 5th. Prior to the meeting tonight, I took a minute to go online and take a look at it. It is just great. And it was just, it was really, it just really pulled at you emotionally. And it's simple, it's direct, it's just wonderful. So I wanted to make sure I mentioned that and congratulated the students and Mr. Dempsey for their work.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam Mayor, I have to say that without any question of a doubt, and I'm sure the audience will all agree, that is the most positive thing that has happened during this election season. Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Trudde du att de kan hjälpa oss med vårt kandidatval?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Hi. We did have a meeting on October 13th. I was the chair. Subcommittee members Mia Mastone and Robert Scurry were present. Also present was Kathy Kreatz and Arenda Benedetto, the superintendent, assistant superintendent Diane Caldwell, director of curriculum, Bernadette Riccidelli, director of humanities, Nicole Chiesa, Director of Math, Carolyn Joy. Director of Science, Rocco Sieri. Director of Pupil Services, Kathleen Madaglio. Director of ELL, Leslie Trotta. All of our principals, teachers, Ms. Cole Sanford, and parents, Alexandra Laurie, Alicia Karen, Melanie McLaughlin, Michelle Ciccolo, and Jen Lewis. The purpose of the meeting was to review and discuss the 2000 state test results. We were each provided with the reports on the test results in all areas which are attached to this report. Deputy Nelson and Assistant Superintendent Caldwell discussed the state testing and the variables affecting the testing. They explained that the discussion would focus on subgroup data for park rates 3 to 8 and MCAS. Deputy Superintendent introduced Nicole Chiesa, Caroline Joy, and Rocky Cieri. Ms. Caldwell gave a brief history of MCAS. It was also stated there was no state data available this year. Vi har en overview av ELA MCAS grad 10 result. Superintendent Belson clarified the Asian subgroup population. It is not homogeneous. It includes a wide range of groups from across the continent, and it varies from city to city. We continued with an overview of the MCAS grade 10 results, and then we went to the science results for grades 5, 8, and 10. Discussion was held about the difficulty of disaggregating grade 10 science as students were taking different content areas and are in different grade levels. They also discussed the low scores for grade 5. Mr. Cieri said that grade 5 scores were low across the board and he plans research programs this year. They also need to look at the budget for material supplies and additional professional development for elementary students. A view of PARC ELA Mathematics for Grades 3 to 8, PARC N to ELA Mathematics for Grades 3 to 8 followed with a review of the highlights and the subgroup data. Discussion was held regarding computer-based testing at the Andrew School and paper testing. It was determined that more time is needed for elementary staff to learn how to use computers when testing. Dr. Riccadeli explained the PARC assessments. This is Medford's first year. Students are required to not only answer the question, but also to explain how they got there. Mr. Benedetto asked about comparison of like districts to Medford. A report will be generated. Ms. Nelson described the five-point scale park uses and the four-point MCAS scale. Ms. Nelson also reviewed student report inconsistencies around the following changes in numbers between levels, plus or minus 7.4 range and the explanation of the legend. I asked what was the takeaway from the evening. Superintendent Belson said that we need to get better, improve science and math scores, review and purchase a new elementary science program. and look hard at our specialized population. There's a lot of transition statewide, and the state is still sorting it out. Ms. Mastone would like to look at the Brooks School to collaborate on effective teaching strategies around science. The number of ELL students at the Brooks is much less than the other schools. Testing in 2017 was discussed. The high school will continue to use MCAS. MKS 2.0 is untimed, no long compositions, and will resemble park questions. Grades 4 and 8 will have online testing of all students. The Andrews will be online testing for all grades. A meeting with Revere and Burlington Public Schools is planned to look at infrastructure needs for technology. Ms. McLaughlin raised concerns around students with disabilities taking MCAS 2.0. It will be discussed in the weeks ahead. Our meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m. Respectfully submitted myself as chair.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think committee of the whole is the way to go initially. Melanie, just to respond to your big ask, I think we should start that way because I know one of the concerns is when we get into who's going to be on the subcommittee, and we all want to be, or we have a subcommittee and then we all show up anyway. But then some people aren't really voting members versus whatever, so I think by starting this with a committee of the whole makes a lot of sense, and then perhaps we can move to decide whether a subcommittee makes a lot of sense. I'm not anti-subcommittee by any means, focused on this. I just understand what some of the challenges are. It's a lot of information. And I think everybody's interested. That's one of the things, is we're all interested.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I just wanted to mention that, in fact, that this is only a small part of the grants that we gave out in these funding cycles, and President Ann Frenning-Cassooth and David Sayers, who's been the head of the Grants Committee, will be coming forward in a couple of weeks' time to tell you about some of the other grants that we funded either in the spring cycle or we are collecting grants right now and the applications are open. We decided to extend it to the end of October. It's very exciting. It's great. It's really kind of fun to do something positive like this and we really, really appreciate all the teachers who write the grants and also it's been very, very helpful to be working so closely with the school district so that when There is a question about is this consistent with our goals, educational goals. We have great people and great support, including helping everything work, so I really appreciate that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Mr. Superintendent, I'm wondering if there's any way that we can advocate for that a five-year graduation rate also be included. We've talked on multiple occasions that everything has been based on a four-year graduation rate. but we have had, as well as many other school systems, additional students who might take a little bit more time, but they do reach the goal. So I'm wondering if, it mentions the high school graduation rates will still be, you know, part of this. I'm wondering if there's any way that both the four-year and the five-year graduation rate could be included in when we provide data so that we can look at
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Superintendent, my question is how do we move along the discussion of including the five-year graduation at the state and federal level.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I think that's something that our school committee could take as a responsibility of talking about this and bringing it forward when we attend meetings outside of Medford, and also within Medford too.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think the best is if we could just get to the core of it. I think we can do so in one or two sentences.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is there a way that we should amend this resolution so that it covers our concern? I'm just looking as I read it, having heard your point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So there's obviously many, many different levels of conversation that we could have on this. I'm going to strictly take mine to the financial. Right now, it costs Medford approximately $4 million to fund our charter school students. We have 10 students less than last year, but it's costing us $270,000 more this year. Why is that? It's because the state has underfunded the charter school account by $57 million. This comes to one of those unfunded mandates. It's not a question of how good charter schools are or how not. Right now we're simply talking about a funding mechanism and the number of charter schools that would be potentially approved by this would only have a greater impact. Therefore, I certainly personally have been urging people to vote no on two because of the particular way the funding works. And I would urge the school committee to take a stand and say vote no on two.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. While we're under suspension, I also just In our packet, we received a reminder that our next meeting will be on October 24th at the superintendent's conference room to discuss the capital plan and it will begin at 6.30.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: In the foyer. In the foyer, the lobby. is that it's also the National Honor Society Information Night, which is 6.30 to 7.30 in the Karen Theater.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, that makes much more sense. Great, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rwy'n rannu'r bwysigrwydd i'n cymdeithaswyr ynglyn â ddiflannu'r notifikatiad i'r rhain o'r rhain i gael iddyn nhw gwybod beth oedd wedi digwydd yn ysgol y diwrnod honno. Rhaid i mi ddweud i chi y byddwn i'n teimlo'n ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig ychydig y
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Felly, roeddwn i hefyd yn clywed, ac rwy'n gwybod ein bod ni wedi cael ymgeisydd am y myfyrwyr sy'n cael eu cymryd allan i'r brifysgol. A oedd hynny un o'r myfyrwyr hynny sy'n cael eu cymryd allan, oherwydd dyma'r hyn sy'n cael ei ystyried i fod yn angen, y byddant yn ymgyrchol.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Iawn, ond mewn y cas hwn, roedd yna trafnidiaeth. Felly, os oedd gen i blant yn y clas hwn, byddai'n rhaid i mi ddweud y byddai'n bwysig iawn, oherwydd nawr maen nhw wedi ymweld â ddau blant gwahanol, a byddai'n bwysig iawn bod fy mhlant yn meddwl beth yw'r nesaf. Ac rwy'n meddwl, eto, rwy'n sylfaenol o'r ffordd y mae'r cyfrifoldeb ynghylch A oedd pobl wedi mynd i mewn i siarad â'r plant? A oedd yna grŵpau fach sy'n siarad â'r plant? Roedd yn ddweud bod y plant yn mynd i'r ystafell i'r ystafell. Ac fel rhan o'r rhain, rwy'n debyg i ddeall pam y byddwch, Ms. Rodriguez, yn ymdrech ar beth y bydd y cynllun yn mynd ymlaen. Felly, ie, roedd yn cyhoeddi bod rhywun yn mynd i mewn i siarad gyda'r plentyn, efallai ym mis Mawrth. Felly, bydd hynny'n digwydd. A yw'r ddau plentyn wedi bod allan, neu y byddan nhw'n dod yn ôl ar yr un pryd, neu y mae gennym unrhyw... Mae'r ddau plentyn arall ar hyn o bryd, ond rydyn ni'n gobeithio y byddan nhw'n dod yn ôl ar unrhyw bryd yma'r wythnos.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Felly, rwy'n credu, rwy'n credu y bydd y broblem cyfathrebu yn bwysig, ac rwy'n credu y bydd, yn amlwg, ac rwy'n clywed eich bod chi ddim yn ymwneud â'n ymddiriedigol, ac rwy'n deall pam, ond, rydych chi'n gwybod, deallu sut y bydd hyn yn cael ei gysylltu er mwyn i'r plentyn ddim fod yn ymdrech. Mr. Rodriguez ysgrifennodd am ei dau ei hun, ond, rydych chi'n gwybod, rwy'n gallu mynd yn ôl i ddeall y byddai'n ddangos pan fyddai pethau'n digwydd mewn ystafell, ac rwy'n gwybod bod y blaenau'n ymddangos arnyn nhw weithiau. Mae rhai blaenau'n ymddangos llawer mwy na'r rhai eraill, ac mae'n rhaid i ni ymddangos arnyn nhw. Felly, rwy'n ymddangos ychydig.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rwy'n ymddangos ychydig. Rwy'n ymddangos ychydig.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The only problem with doing that is that we have ELL students then who have been at the Roberts for the younger grades, who have friendships, who are comfortable there and now we're, you know,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Iawn, ond byddai'n mynd i ffwrdd o'r cyffordd honno, ond mewn gwirionedd, mae'n ymwneud â sefydliad. Arweinydd, rwy'n rhaid i mi ddweud, rwy'n ymdrechu'n ddiogel iawn gyda chi ychydig. Dydw i ddim yn meddwl y bydd yr uchelgais yma i'w hyrwyddo. Rwy'n meddwl y bydd cyngor ysgolion wedi clywed Yn ddiweddaraf, rwy'n gobeithio y byddai'r cyfrifiadau wedi digwydd yn ystod yr wythnos diwethaf, ac nid yw'r rhai o'r rhai sydd wedi digwydd yn ystod yr wythnos diwethaf, ac nid yw'r rhai o'r rhai sydd wedi digwydd yn yr wythnos diwethaf. ffeithiau fawr y bydd y pethau'n mynd ymlaen mewn ffyrdd cyffredinol, oherwydd i lawer ohonyn nhw, mae hynny'n blynyddoedd sy'n mynd ymlaen. Felly, byddwn i'n hoffi gwneud cysylltiad. Roeddwn i'n clywed eich bod chi'n dweud eich bod chi'n gwneud cysylltiad. Nid oeddwn i'n clywed hwnnw.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, well, my motion must be slightly different. I just want to make sure that this isn't falling through the cracks for us, so I'd like to make a motion to make sure that we receive a report at our next school committee meeting and at our meeting after that, so that we have some ongoing understanding of what's going on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I ddod o'r ffordd hwnnw, rwy'n credu y byddai'n dda iawn i ddod o'r ffordd hwnnw hefyd i ddod o'r ffordd i gwneud hynny'n ddiweddar iawn, oherwydd roedd yn dda iawn, ac rwy'n gwybod sut mae'r bobl wedi mwynhau a chymryd hynny, ac roeddwn i'n teimlo'n bleidlais iawn i fod yn gallu ymwneud â hyn. Diolch yn fawr iawn, Paula. Roedd hynny'n diwrnod hafoddol.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Fodd bynnag, rwy'n hapus i ddweud am y rhan sy'n ymwneud â'r ysgol Brookes. Roedd yna grŵp o faterion o'r Brookes sydd wedi ymweld â'r ffurfwr Mike McGlynn, sydd wedi dod â'u syniadau. Mae hwn wedi bod yn brosiect ar gyfer ychydig amser, ac mae'n dda iawn i weld bod yna adroddiad.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mae'r ffynediad hwn yn ymwneud â'r strwythoedd gyhoeddus hwn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Y cynllun cyfartal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ac erbyn ein bod ni'n ymwneud â'r argyfwng, a allaf ddweud y byddwn hefyd yn ymwneud â'r argyfwng rydyn ni'n cael yma'r diwethaf yma ynghylch y cyhoeddiad i ddewis gwybodaeth o'r
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just had a question about it. Okay. So the question was, I guess I didn't really understand one thing about the yes pass to the kids. Um, can they get the physical pass and loaded at an MBTA station or do they, do we have to, do they have to bring us the money to load?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion of approval. Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam chair, since the results were just released this afternoon and school committee members have only received the preliminary report. I think that with the information that was provided so far, um, by, uh, the deputy superintendent, that at this point, it seems like it would be appropriate for us to move this to a subcommittee meeting when the rest of the analysis has been done. So I'd make a motion to move it to the curriculum subcommittee meeting. Motion on approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Um, I accept the nomination. And after discussion with Mr. Scurry, where he assures me he will attend the meeting, I nominate Mr. Scurry to be the delegate to the MAFC full conference.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rwy'n rannu'r bwysigrwydd i'n cymdeithaswyr ynghylch gwybodaeth i'r blant i gael nhw'n gwybod beth sydd wedi digwydd yn y sgwrs honno'n dydd. Rhaid i mi ddweud i chi y byddwn i'n teimlo'n ychydig ychydig ychydig yn y gloch. Rwy'n deall y byddwn yn amlwg eisiau cymdeithaswyr y myfyrwyr, ond dim ond cwestiwn sy'n golygu. A ydw i'n deall y bydd y ddau myfyrwyr yn ymwneud â'r un arall? Nid. Roedd yn sefyllfa lle oedd ddau myfyrwyr wahanol sydd wedi teimlo
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mae'r ddau wedi digwydd yn yr un ystafell, mae'r ddau wedi digwydd yn yr un ystafell.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Felly, roeddwn i hefyd yn clywed, ac rwy'n gwybod ein bod ni wedi cael ymgeisydd am y myfyrwyr sy'n cael eu cymryd allan i'r brifysgol. A oedd hynny un o'r myfyrwyr hynny sy'n cael eu cymryd allan, oherwydd dyma'r hyn sy'n cael ei ystyried i fod yn angen, y byddai'r myfyrwyr yn ymgyrchu.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Felly, os oedd gen i blant yn y clas hwn, byddai'n bwysig iawn, oherwydd nawr maen nhw wedi'u gweld dwy o blant gwahanol, ac byddai'n bwysig iawn bod fy mhlant yn meddwl beth yw'r nesaf. Ac rwy'n meddwl, eto, rwy'n sylwadu sut byddai'r cyfrifiad ymlaen, ond Oedd y bobl wedi mynd i mewn i siarad gyda'r plant? A oedd yna grwpiau mawr sy'n siarad gyda'r plant? Roedd yn ddweud bod y plant yn mynd i'r ysgol i'r ysgol, ac fel rhan o'r rhain, rwy'n debyg i ddeall pam y byddwch, Ms. Rodriguez, yn ymdrech ar beth y bydd y cynllun yn mynd ymlaen. Felly, ie, roedd yn cyhoeddi bod rhywun yn mynd i mewn i siarad gyda'r plentyn, efallai ym mis Mawrth. Felly, bydd hynny'n digwydd. A yw'r ddau plentyn wedi bod allan, neu y byddai'r ddau plentyn yn ymwneud â'r un pryd, neu y mae gennym unrhyw... Mae'r ddau plentyn yn ymwneud â'r un pryd, ond rydyn ni'n gobeithio y byddant yn ymwneud â'r un pryd ym mis hwn. Felly, rwy'n credu... Rwy'n credu bod y broblem cymdeithasol yn bwysig, ac rwy'n credu y bydd, yn amlwg, ac rydw i'n clywed eich bod chi ddim yn ymdrech i ddefnyddio, ac rwy'n deall pam, ond rwy'n deall sut y bydd hwn yn cael ei gysylltu fel i ddweud nad yw'r plentyn hyn yn ymdrech iawn. Mr. Rodriguez ysgrifennodd am ei ddaughter ei hun, ond rwy'n cael mynediad yn ôl i deall y byddai'n ddangos pan fyddai pethau'n digwydd mewn ystafell, ac rwy'n gwybod bod y blaenau'n ymddangos ynglyn â nhw weithiau. Mae rhai blaenau'n ymddangos ychydig yn fwy na'r rhai eraill, ac mae'n rhaid i ni ymddangos arnynt. Felly, rwy'n ymddangos ychydig. Rwy'n ymddangos ychydig.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rwy'n ymddangos ychydig.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Iawn, ond byddai'n mynd allan allan o'r cymorth hwnnw. Ond, mewn gwirionedd, mae'n ymwneud â'r cyfrifol. Mr. Prif Weinidog, rydw i'n rhaid i mi ddweud, rydw i'n ymdrechu'n ddiogel iawn gyda chi ychydig. Nid ydw i'n meddwl bod yr uchelgais yma yw cynyddu hynny. Rydw i'n meddwl bod yr holl aelodau'r Gweinidog ysgolion wedi clywed y bydd ymdrechion wedi digwydd yn yr wythnos Yn ddiweddaraf, rwy'n gobeithio y byddai'r cyfrifiadau a'r cyfrifiadau a'r cyfrifiadau a'r cyfrifiadau a'r cyfrifiadau a'r cyfrifiadau a'r cyfrifiadau a'r cyfrifiadau y bydd y pethau'n mynd ymlaen yn y ffordd mwyaf poblogol, oherwydd i llawer ohonyn nhw, dyna'r blynyddoedd yr ydyn ni'n clywed. Felly, byddwn i'n hoffi gwneud y cyfrifiad. Roeddwn i'n clywed eich bod chi'n dweud eich bod chi'n gwneud y cyfrifiad, nid oeddwn i'n clywed hwnnw. Mae gen i tri cyfrifiadau ar hyn o bryd, efallai y gallaf ysgrifennu nhw ar hyn o bryd.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, well my motion must be slightly different. I just want to make sure that this isn't falling through the cracks for us, so I'd like to make a motion to make sure that we receive a report at our next school committee meeting and at our meeting after that, so that we have some ongoing understanding of what's going on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I ddod o'r ffordd hwnnw, rwy'n credu y byddai'n dda iawn hefyd i ddod o'r ffordd hwnnw i ddod o'r ffordd hwnnw i gwneud hynny'n event ddiddorol, oherwydd roedd yn ddiddorol iawn, ac rwy'n gwybod sut mae'r bobl wedi mwynhau a chymryd iddyn nhw, ac roeddwn i'n teimlo'n ddiolch iawn i fod yn gallu ymwneud. Diolch yn fawr iawn, Paula. Roedd hynny'n ddiwrnod hapus.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yn enwedig, rwy'n hapus i ddysgu am y rhan sy'n ymwneud â'r ysgol Brookes. Roedd y grŵp o roeddwyr o'r Brookes sydd wedi cwrdd â'r arweinwyr gynhadledig, Mike McGlynn, yn dod â'u sylwadau. Mae hwn wedi bod yn ymwneud â sylwadau ar gyfer ychydig amser, ac mae'n dda iawn i weld bod yna adroddiad.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Y cynllun ymlaen i'r dyfodol.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ac er bod ni'n cael argyfwng, gallaf gofyn y byddwn hefyd yn ymwneud â'r adnoddau rydyn ni'n cael yma'r dyfodol ynghylch y cyhoeddiad i dderbyniadu
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rydyn ni'n cael ei gynhyrchu fel cyfrifiad. Yn ein pachet, rwy'n ymwneud â chyfrifiad i dderbyn cyfrifiadau o ysgolion byd yng Nghaerfyrdd. Mae'n gofyn y byd ysgol yng Nghaer yn gofyn cymorth i ddod o'r ysgafn o ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn Medford, ac maen nhw'n mynd i'w adeiladu, maen nhw'n gofyn adeiladu ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn ysgafn y yn gallu cyflawni'r ddadl o'r ddadl mewn cymdeithas, er nad oes unrhyw broblemau rydw i ddim yn gwybod amdanyn nhw.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yn ddiweddaraf, ymwneud ag adnoddau ysgolion, ymwneud ag adnoddau ysgolion, ymwneud ag adnoddau ysgolion,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, I read through the material and I just wanted to be clear. So, if a student does reveal information which is alarming, they will be told that what they're saying is not confidential?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ac os yw'r myfyrwyr yn dweud ai,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rwy'n gobeithio dweud, diolch i chi am yr holl gwaith sy'n ymwneud â hyn. Rwyf wedi mynd drwy hyn, ac roeddwn i'n gweld pa mor gwaith, oherwydd nid yw'n unig yn ymdrechu â nhw, ond hefyd yn sicrhau ein bod ni'n cynllunio'r holl gweithgareddau sy'n ymwneud â nhw. A yw hyn angen ymwneud â Dwi'n meddwl, ie. Felly, byddwn i'n gwneud y cyfrifiad i gyhoeddi'r golau, sefydlu'r golau edrychol ar gyfer y blwyddyn 2016-2017. Yr ail gwestiynau? Rwy'n cael ychydig o gwestiynau, os ydych chi ddim yn meddwl.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just had a question about it. Okay. So the question was, I guess I didn't really understand one thing about the ESPAS. Do the kids, can they get the physical pass and load it at an MBTA station or do they, do we have to, do they have to bring us the money to load?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam Chair, since the results were just released this afternoon and school committee members have only received the preliminary report, I think that with the information that was provided so far by the Deputy Superintendent, that at this point it seems like it would be appropriate for us to move this to a subcommittee meeting when the rest of the analysis has been done. Felly byddwn i'n gwneud cwmniad i'w defnyddio i'r cynghrair sub-cynghrair. O, gallaf gofyn cwestiwn cyn i ni wneud hynny? Roedd gen i cwestiwn roeddwn i'n mynd i'w gofyn.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Diolch, Mr. Fincham. Cymorth i ddewis ar ddŵr.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Rydyn ni'n cael dwy nominatio. A oes gennym ddau?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Madam Mayor. So that was exactly my question, because I've also received calls. And I just spoke to Diane about it, and I'd like her to come forward and give a clarification, because I was told that there were classes where there were 25. And I believe it was grade two. And also, I think it was the kindergarten as well, or 24 or something. And it does look, I do have to say, I do have a concern If you look at the numbers in kindergarten and look at the numbers in grade one, it looks like the average class size in kindergarten is higher, quite a bit higher than in grade one across the board. And, you know, it's always been, particularly in kindergarten, that those were the places where we're looking, you know, for low numbers and in, you know, At the Roberts, even with average class size, 21.5, so there's 22 kids in the class. That's a lot of little five-year-olds all together. So I am concerned about our kindergarten numbers. Diane, could you address the concern about the numbers at the Roberts specifically?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But there is 24?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Are the teachers Do they feel that's a very amenable way to divide the children fairly, or is that causing... I mean, I understand, but clearly there were parents who were reacting to it, so I'm somewhat curious about the staff.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, thank you. I'm not quite sure what to think yet. I guess part of it depends on How many more kids come into the district in those classes? Have you been receiving concerns, Diane?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just wanted to go back to some of the numbers and if I could ask Diane to come forward again. So, Diane, there is a difficulty here because we're sort of seeing numbers and, you know, it's kind of us second-guessing the principles, which we understand the fallacy of that. I could probably make a strongest argument supporting the way that Mr. Johnson divvies up kids. saying it may be in fact the most equitable way, because we all know that one very difficult student, a teacher might prefer three easy students in comparison. But it does raise some questions. One of the questions I see elsewhere is that at the Columbus on the first grade, we are as class size as low as 14 students, while the kindergarten is up to 21. And playing around, I almost wondered, gee, would we have better off to have an extra kindergarten teacher and divide it up in a different way. So I'm curious why that decision was made.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do all of those teachers at the Columbus School have full-time aides?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So three out of four. And does the fourth teacher have the same 21 kids?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, you know, again, looking at the number, I think that that's where we might be saying, hey, I understand the superintendent saying, look, you know, We've got great class sizes, and I've certainly spoken to other people in other towns, and I know we have great class sizes, but still, my expectation was more that they're in the 17-18 range. When I see going up to 22, that's definitely concerning to me. In the Roberts School, one of the things I want to ask you about the kindergarten class specifically, since the principal told us that, you know, are there any kindergarten classrooms with 24 or 25? No.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, so they're divided equitably? Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Okay? Yeah. Well, I mean, if I look at this sheet at the second grade, it says average class size 22, but you've told me that there's some with 24. And if I look at kindergarten, It says average class size 21.5, i.e. So would one kindergarten class have 20 and the other have 24? No. Okay. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I really think that looking at the numbers, we might look at how that Columbus, that one class which doesn't have a kindergarten aid in equity seems like a need there. At the Columbus School, you mean? Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vanden Heuvel? No, it's okay. You're all set? Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, I just also think the report was great. I think this is one of those good news reports, and it's important that we that we hear it. I particularly also liked hearing, you know, that there was a challenge and that's and we're looking at our summer school for grades six and seven. I think that's very valuable for us to hear as well. So I appreciate the delivery of the report. Thank you, Mr. Skerry.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I have it at home, but I don't know which of the three days the delegate assembly is. It's Wednesday.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to be the alternate.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd also just like to add a comment. Tonight, before the school committee, the members of the school committee were down at the McGlynn and Andrews property, which, as you know, is on Freedom Way. And it was named Freedom Way because our schools opened in 2001 on 9-10. And on Tuesday morning, I happened to be there dropping off my child and, you know, doing those things. And it was sitting outside of the Andrews School that I had my radio on and heard the report and went into the schools. And so as I sit there and sat, and of course this being such a, you know, important anniversary The schools to me are also so very closely tied to that memory. And our commitment to each and every one of our students and families in Medford to have a free, wonderful education, because that is what I think is the most important thing in our democracy for all our kids.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I ask a question about that? Sure, Ms. Vanderhoof. Could you please tell us what you're replacing the curbing with? I thought that was a higher cost item that was going to be looked at in terms of the capital improvement plan when we spoke about it last spring. So I'm curious, since we've already seen that curbing had a problem, I'm wondering what you're replacing it with.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So how are we correcting it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But the same type of curb?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's a stronger material though.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Because what, obviously my question is what's going to prevent that, the same thing from happening again?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I definitely thought we were looking at a different material completely, so. I'm a little concerned about that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: All right. Well, we'll discuss this, I guess, with capital improvement. So in essence, this is step one. Yes. A temporary fix.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam Mayor, I just want to request that when that happens all the school committee members are informed of when there might be an opportunity to view it so that it's not, so that we can all have access to that information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just one more question. You just mentioned dye lots, and that hit upon another concern I had. I'm really glad painting is taking place. You mentioned the McGlynn in particular, but I was concerned because we spent hours and hours and days and months when we initially picked out colors, and I'm under the impression that there's no longer existing paint from the original project. So I just wondered what paint you used, how you match colors.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And they still make them?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot, so, you know, obviously it makes sense to go through this tonight, but I think that as a committee member, my expectation was that we would be visiting the schools and walking them and looking at them perhaps more intensely. So that's my first comment. My second comment is when we hit, if you just kind of look at some of the money in the columns, you know, a lot of the, I always thought that if we were going to do a capital improvement plan, We would be putting more money in year one and not waiting until year four to get to playground surfacing or some of these other things, which we've talked about for quite a long time. So I'm a little surprised at how they're skewed so late.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I thought we were going to have to go through the list.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: As I look down the list, perhaps I thought we were going to read through the list first, but one of the questions that pops out to me is skateboard area deconstructed and modular units installed. and you know we've not discussed that, why are we installing modular units, why would we be doing that, why is it on a priority list, etc.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, so I don't even know how to address all of that in the context of this plan right now because there's many, many different questions embedded in that. So I see it as one of the things that administration has put down on this capital planning list. But as a school committee member sort of understanding that the whole impetus or urgency or not or whatever, that's just simply not clear at this time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think the appropriate thing to say is that we appreciate her very much and so we're not going to let her go. We're going to tie you up and we're just going to keep you here because we need you. You've just been so fantastic. We adore you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great, welcome. So you just heard us talk about capital planning and putting together a capital planning plan. What experience do you have in doing something similar and what were your thoughts as we were discussing it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You've already seen we're talking a bunch and we all have our own concerns and agendas. And obviously you would report to the superintendent. But we're here too and we're very interested in what's going on. How do you handle that balance for the need of school committee members who approach you for information, which we do with Pat all the time, versus your report to the superintendent?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What would you do if you disagreed with him?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My question was actually going to be on the mayor's follow-up question, which is if we had a situation where here in the city of Medford your role would be part of
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I guess I'm going to go back to the superintendent school committee relations and I'm going to ask you what your expectations of both the superintendent and the school committee is and and how you've worked with them in your previous positions.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: At this point, have you seen our budget books, like for the budget for this school year? Not for FY17. I have reviewed prior budgets online. And is it similar, was it similar in your previous position that you would put together, be responsible for
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What do you see as the most challenging part of this new job?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And have you had experience in collective bargaining?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And lastly, was it typical for you to attend, I don't, in Fitchburg, is it town meeting or? Council meeting. Council meetings?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You've heard that here it's very typical for our Director of Finance and Administration to attend every school committee meeting, multiple other meetings, and to stay late often. That's fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Diane, do you attend every school committee meeting in Arlington?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's interesting that that's something you negotiated. Here it is customary, more often than not, that our finance director is at our meetings or at our beck and call. So that sort of leads me to the second question is, what are your expectations regarding your relationship, both with the superintendent, your boss, if you would, and the school committee? And how has that worked? I know in Cambridge, I'm not sure whether you had direct contact with the school committee?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Can I ask why this position in Medford interests you and why you would be leaving Arlington? Absolutely.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I have heard about town meetings in Arlington, so. I did want to ask you one thing about your resume, and I'm not even sure if you know this, but under every single job experience you've had, it says, please do not contact this employer.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. But it's a funny thing because on it, it feels kind of negative. So that was why I was curious. OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yep. OK. Thank you very much for explaining. Robert Evans, Scary Junior.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I do. You gave us a number of students in Arlington. What is their budget?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And I just wondered, in terms of the transportation routes, you mentioned special ed, which I'll set aside.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, and I guess the last question is I'd like you to tell me about a difficult situation which you faced in Arlington and how you resolved it. Fiscal? Behavioral? I'm going to let you pick. Oh, boy.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I'm not going to make that mistake a second time. Diane, you know our motto, right? On time and on budget. Love it. After my own heart.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So prior to our budget night, I had no idea that we were moving in this direction. We hadn't really been apprised of this along the way. So I don't really understand whether this requires a vote of the school committee to affirm the decision. I don't know if it's a decision or it's just what is happening. Could you perhaps explain that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So just out of curiosity, are there other options? Or is this the option?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I know.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I guess I'd like to ask, uh, Mr. Maloney, whether any sports will be impacted, for example, uh, will right now our swimming season is during the winter. Um, but I know some schools have different swimming seasons. So does anybody, anything change for us?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And just one, on the registered MPS booster organizations will be allowed available times, times not otherwise booked. And so, booked by when? Are we talking a week in advance, two weeks in advance? How?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We're not paying for field workers. And the money is going directly to the programs? Correct. Okay. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to thank the superintendent for putting the report together. I think it gives us a, it's good to have this outline for us and in our records. I make a motion to accept the paper and place it on file.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So in the past, it's been customary that the superintendent has sent us out a report on or about August 1st to 7th. And that actually is not specified in this list. So while it says that you will give us updates, I'd like to formalize it and say that there will be a midsummer report will be sent out to the committee by the superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: My feeling about it is I've always found that sort of mid-August report really valuable. So I'm not really looking for a meeting to happen August 1st. I'd be more inclined to have a meeting the third week of August or, you know, the next week before, you know, either right prior to school or now. Of course, we start school before vacation, but I think we're saying before Labor Day, but not necessarily midsummer. August 1st is, you know, I think it should be a little bit later than that, personally.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to say that I think one of the things that was very clear was that there was such an agreement when your name was brought forward. you know, amongst the parents, amongst the faculty, and amongst the school committee members. We had, as school committee members, had the opportunity, well, in some ways to watch you grow personally, but also to have you present to us on any number of times and to see you actually working. So if you would, it was a classic no-brainer. Congratulations.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. I spoke to Pat on the way in. and noted that in the letter that it specified to be spent on new musical equipment. And I think it would be better to deposit back to the school department to be used by the fine arts department. Some of the needs that we heard last week from the band director was not necessarily musical equipment, but there were other needs. So I just wanted to give us more leeway. Music department? Music department is fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I wanted to address the budget modifications that the superintendent has given us. In my mind, the superintendent has met the concerns that the school committee seemed fairly much in unison, as different as we all are, there was a theme and these were definitely the ones that I was most concerned about and heard others speak to as well. So I'm very, very happy to see that money has been found for these, what I consider to be necessary items. I'd like to make a motion that the school committee affirm the Medford Public Schools budget for the year 2017 with the inclusion of these budget modifications.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thanks, Mayor. I guess I just want to add one thing in that for the Paris that are brought in from special education, that's also part of the IEP process of determining whether a particular student, what they need or how it works. So that's where it's sort of spelled out. I guess I just really wanted to say that the other night when we did our budget, I think that there was some level of frustration because obviously we had needs or desires that we thought were essential. And I know, Mia, at some point you said, what is the point of all this? And kind of said, you know, there is a level of trust working with the superintendent. But the point of all of it was we went through the budget and we identified key areas that we believed were critical. And that there was a real purpose to that work the other night. And now you've seen the fruition of it tonight. And I think that we're also saying and realizing, you know, again, this budget is a, you sort of set the bottom line, but there was movement with it depending on what the needs are. It's not a static document.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think it would make more sense if the fourth quarter, is it the third quarter, would be part, would be the budget report. So you're not preparing five, you're doing quarterly reports, and one of them is with the budget. I see, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So given the adjustments that were made, I'm not quite sure why my colleagues now have voted against it, the two that did. And I, too, was looking for unity because that is what we want to go into and support. I do understand that people might have preferences, and I'm sure, for example, that many of my colleagues would, in fact, like to have said we're going to do kindergarten aides across the city all at once. This is a very large budget with many other things, very important things to us. We've added an English teacher. We've added lots of different elements. I think that the committee has spoken and said, yes, there is a desire in the future to add that we're starting out with the Roberts. It's a level three school. justification for why we're starting in this particular school. I hasten to remind everybody that when we get to kindergarten aids, the money, the dollars seem short, but the obligation of the city in terms of the additional finances for healthcare are significant. So I think that the beginnings of this budget and on that particular issue have been addressed, and it's clearly been heard that there is a desire to increase as we go on. So I share with the superintendent frustration. I know the other night, I had hoped to have a unified budget, and there were some levels of consternation because there were so many things that weren't clear, and tonight we've now clarified those in, I think, a very, very positive manner. I for one would ask my colleagues to reconsider their vote, and I would like to have a discussion and see, because I'm not quite sure if that's the only issue that's outstanding, and I'm not understanding something else for that negative vote by my colleagues, that I would urge you to reconsider, because a budget is a huge Entity, it is not a one issue question. We are here for the good of all of our students, whether they're in kindergarten or whether they're in a high school senior. Every student is important. And to hold up that unity on a budget because of one issue, especially when so much progress has been made, I believe is not in the best interest of the public schools and the children and families we serve.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Madam Mayor, I wouldn't want anyone to think that we couldn't vote, certainly as we did. And it's just that, quite honestly, I was surprised. I want to make it clear, by the way, that there have been years where I have voted against the budget because I was concerned that the entire budget level was short, and that we were not meeting the needs of our students. So please understand that it's not, that I've never, that I've always been in agreement with the bottom line, but that's really the issue. In some ways, it's the ultimate bottom line. I didn't understand why my colleagues voted against it, and that's why I said what I said. I am wondering, since the superintendent has made a statement sort of saying, geez, I'd rather go in with a unified force, whether there was a point in my asking for reconsideration so that we could vote it again if any colleague had a feeling that they were persuaded for some sense of unity. But if there's not, then I respect your votes, and I'm not going to bother for a reconsideration. So I was just trying to sort of feel out whether either of my colleagues who voted against the budget wanted to reconsider their thoughts. If you're willing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, Madam Mayor, just to conclude the discussion, then, I certainly want to express to my two colleagues that I appreciate their due diligence, and I respect their votes, even if I disagree with it and would have preferred it a different way. However, even though, Erin, you've asked many questions, and I can know some of your areas of concern, I still was surprised, because I thought we were more on the same page. Now that you've articulated exactly where you're coming from, I appreciate it, I understand it, and I now understand the vote better. So thank you and we'll, if we could, did we call the vote? No.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Called the vote.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Mr. Connor and members of the Handbell Choir, before you leave, I just really want to thank you for coming here tonight. You know, it's kind of a long and hectic day, and when we come to a meeting, you never know what to expect. So to begin our program, our meeting tonight, with such a lovely program from you is really exceptional, and I'm so grateful. Mr. Connor, as you know, I've had the chance to hear your Handbell Choir before, and I was so impressed then. I think the thing that really strikes me more than anything is that With you taking this initiative to try something new at your school, not only are you teaching the kids a lot about music, but what really stands out with this particular activity is the teamwork. And so I'm very grateful to you, and thank you for the kids. You did a fantastic job. And hats off to those two recorder players as well. They were fabulous. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Thank you, Melanie, for your presentation. You've given us a lot of information, so I'm trying to absorb it quickly. I think I'm particularly excited. The one that hit me was the implement district-wide disability awareness program. To me, that makes so much sense in terms of students understanding their classmates. I know that early in my years on the school committee, I wanted to do something like that. I thought it would be useful for kids to understand. But at the point in time, the big issue was everybody's confidentiality. And if we have a sea change of parents willing to share their child's information about their child's disability with other students. I can't think of anything that would be more positive.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But even in general, talking about a disability such as autism,
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But I've also seen, you know, on TV stories about, you know, classrooms of kids who once they understood the disabilities of a child in their class, what a team they became with that child. So I think that's wonderful. Now, just to get to one question, on your indicators graduation rate, I just want to ask you whether you use the four-year graduation rate for Medford or the five-year graduation rate. We used whatever DESE had on their site. Because I think that there's a big difference for us between four-year Okay, in five years. Oh, interesting, yeah. Right, and so students, if I recall correctly, I mean, it does take some students longer, but that doesn't mean that they're unsuccessful. In fact, it means they're very successful and they've stuck to it and really, and so when we look at that, I think it's a, that particular detail is important in our understanding overall. Yeah, I would agree. Obviously, of course. I'd like to compare them. Yeah, and I don't remember exactly, but I remember at some point looking at that and saying that was interesting. In terms of your call for the DSAC technical assistance, I thought, are we already having a DSAC team come in, or where are we?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Superintendent.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Um, I think, um, the other thing that the PAC called for was the endorse inclusion and endorse an inclusion subcommittee. And I think that that would also be a valuable thing to discuss that night. And I agree that that would be an appropriate follow-up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, and the last thing I just had jotted down was robocalls. It would seem that we ought to be able to include PAC meeting information in a robocall You know, it might be a standalone call or it might be something that other things are being announced at the same time. So I certainly think we ought to work on that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, I certainly applaud the desire. I'm a little concerned about the fact that right now the timing is so tight. We're scheduled to go into a budget meeting next Wednesday. We have to be cognizant that the superintendent and the administration are preparing that budget and that takes time. So I'm not quite sure where we manage. We've got graduation on Wednesday of this week. I just, I'm just not quite sure where we're going to put it in.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Ms. Maybrook.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. At one time, I recall when this was an issue, many years ago, we started tracking it. And, of course, it was a bloody pain in the neck for the teachers, but it did enforce what the policy was and that they had to inform the principal when recess was withheld from a student just for tracking purposes. Now, of course, over the period of time, then it sort of fell by the wayside, but at least temporarily. I keep on hearing this again. I think we're clear on our policy that it is the exception, the exceptional exception. It is not supposed to be something that is done frequently, but yet I keep on hearing it, so we clearly have an ongoing problem. I am wondering, one of the things you just said, Mr. Superintendent, is recess, part of the problem is recess is not part of time and learning. It's not considered by the DESC to be important, and maybe what we should do is to write motion this year to go before the MASC and start advocating for recess minutes to count as an indication of how important those are when we're talking about our whole child. And that would be an active thing that the Medford School Committee could talk about and take to a statewide level.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. That the MASC, I mean, sorry, that the Medford School Committee craft a motion regarding recess being part of time and learning, which would be brought before the MASC committee, the resolutions committee, which is coming up pretty soon. It's a good thought.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Point of information.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think, Mia, that it needs to be not just for the Roberts Handbook, but it needs to be our Medford Public School Committee
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So what we need to do as a committee is to look at the four handbooks and see what is actually in our online handbook. And we've talked about a couple of other meetings, and if we need to define some wording and make sure that it's clear, that is what we should be doing in terms of... putting out clarity from the school committee, a policy from the school committee. And I agree with you that, obviously, if Ellery's saying to us, you know, it's really vague, well, we hear that and we need to make it clear.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to thank you for this work. I thought this was great, an important step for us, and I just was really pleased to read what we're doing, Tony.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So this clearly is an issue not only for the school committee, but the city of Medford overall. Right, so at some point as it becomes refined, that needs to be posted. I also see that there is a reasonable, a city or town may charge a reasonable fee, and I would think that they would need to have some discussion about what a reasonable fee is for this request.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Oh, okay. So when this is, when everything is settled, I would certainly want to have it on our website. OK. Motion to accept.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What is the?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Van der Kloot. I also just wanted to mention that over the time, the opportunities that I've had seeing the assistant principal interact with parents and with us. Again, as you said, she did a great job answering questions and fielding questions when the school council reports were submitted both this year and last year. And I would very much concur that it seems like there's wide spread support from the people I've spoken to, and I think that this would be a very good move. I, too, don't wish to do a process, which is, you know, you said dog and pony show. We don't need to do that. I was curious, were there any other people who had come to speak on this tonight? Oh, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Roll call. Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So tonight, I was so excited because I knew that when I came to the meeting that Ms. Chang and the students would be here. And you know, we've watched each year asking for them to come and perform at our school committee meeting because there's no better reminder for us of what excellence we have in the Medford Public Schools. I am so, so proud of these students, the work, the determination, looking at their faces, looking at the concentration. And also, one of the other privileges that I've had is to watch them go on, go on to the high school, talk to them. They're siblings that I've seen. One family member moves on up to the high school, but another family member comes in. I want to thank the parents for making sure that their students get to all of these performances. I want to thank Ms. Cheng for her amazing dedication to these students and to the music program. And students, I want to commend you on your excellent performance. It is wonderful to achieve at this level. Thank you so much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to ask for suspension of the rules so that we could have community participation prior to the report of committees.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vanden Heuvel. I just want to thank Anne and David for being here today, because I am part of it. I know how hard they've worked to make this successful. I think many of us have heard about some of the projects. Actually, I read about some of them in the newspaper and whatever, and I knew that they were also projects that the Medford Educational Fund had funded. So thank you to them for being here, and we appreciate the support of the school committee. I should also, I'd like to quickly add that it's been incredibly helpful to, Pat Vili has guided us on some of the financial things that we needed help with, and we really, really appreciate Pat's help and direction.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just want to back up for a second and remind everybody here that actually I've been through two superintendent searches already, but first for Superintendent DeVoe, an outside candidate, and secondly for Superintendent Belson, who was an internal candidate at the time. So I've actually got a little bit of experience. Also, I just want to assure everybody that there is no way, and I kind of recoil from your word haphazard, that I would allow this to be a haphazard process for picking the most important job that we have in our school system. In fact, if you go back, when I ran for school committee this time, one of the things I talked about was that we will be entering a transition period. and it will be vitally important that we take our time and we do due diligence and we have a very successful transition. And that's particularly because I am involved and have been involved on the statewide level at the MASC and we've talked to our colleagues from other districts who've done superintendent searches and we've gotten, Anne Marie and I have gotten some pretty good feedback We've also had the opportunity to talk, you know, they will do superintendent searches. There is a process with them that we could choose to, at the time, ask for their assistance. Of course, no decision like that has been made, but we are well aware of that as a potential. By the way, Angela, I did want to tell you that I did not receive an email from you, and that's been a problem. Somehow emails that are sent directly to the school are not coming to me, so use my Gmail address. please. So again, no way would I allow someone with 26 years of experience on the Medford School Committee, who lives and breathes this job, would I allow this to be a haphazard process. I also want to remind everybody that this year, we've had three new school committees join us. Ms. Kreatz, Ms. Mostoni, and in fact the mayor, is new. They joined us in January. That was not the time to spring into action to do the superintendent's evaluation. They needed an opportunity to work with the superintendent and find out for themselves what kind of man he is. You don't just go and evaluate somebody who you've only worked for for six weeks. So our evaluation process is a little later this year, okay? It is going to happen. The evening with the superintendent is going to happen. I would have it no other way. Sometimes it feels like there's another elephant in the room, and certainly there are some citizens that would prefer the superintendent not to perhaps indicate that he would like to stay another year or so on top of his current contract. And it's all very interesting, this. The superintendent is a man who has to make some tough decisions, and he has to lead, and he's been our leader. He has a backbone, and so he's spoken out about things like the drain of finances that was caused by our students going to Minuteman, and he worked hard to end that procession out and to, in fact, then booster our own Medford Vocational School so that it would be the jewel that it is growing to be. We're so proud of that, such a change. He talks out on a statewide level about the inequity of charter school funding and the problems of the funding formula. And every so often, he gets really pissed off, and he speaks inappropriately, perhaps, to a citizen, and that's my view, and I can tell every single one of you that when I feel he's crossed a line, I'm the first one to tell him. But he is a magnificent leader here. he will be hard to replace. We will also need to look about and think very strongly about, and I've actually already had some discussions with the superintendent himself, which at some point along the line when we sit down, the whole school committee will have to consider not only his role, but what is the role of the other people who might, because he's leaving, decide to go with him. It's a bigger picture than just the superintendent. Now, you said to us, why didn't we say anything to you in April? We were coming up cold. I didn't know you were coming. I hadn't looked at the date on the superintendent's contract that night, okay? We had a school vacation week. We've gone through incredibly busy weeks. I don't know if people realize how busy this school committee is. One week I was out so many nights, and look, this is just, we're here today, May 16th. We have a meeting on May 17th. We have a meeting on May 18th. We have a meeting on May 23rd. We have a meeting on May 24th. We have the M Club dinner on the 25th. We have 6th, 7th, 8th. We are incredibly busy. It is, we have to get all of us together. Now, should this be a priority? Yes. But I would hold that we are taking our steps. The superintendent will give us his evaluation. We will deliberate on that evaluation. We will ask him for his preferences regarding a contract and we will deliberate on that. Okay? We will go through the extraordinary busy time of getting the budget, and we need to realize that the superintendent and his, everybody in the administration needs to spend time to put that budget together. That's the time of year it is. I assure you that this will not be a haphazard process, and I want to add, over my dead body.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have a question. I think that the contract reads that we have to inform the superintendent by June 30 if our intention is not to rehire him. Is that correct? It doesn't say not. Do you have a copy of it before? I brought it too. Could you just read the first sentence or that sentence?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Ms. Vander Kloof. So, you know, I don't have any problem voting for the motion, but the superintendent has just told us that he's going to provide it to us by Friday, and he's just told us that we've got a meeting on the second. So, in fact, my colleague is, by putting it in motion, is making it sound as if You know, she's doing something like a big deal. But I just have to be clear that we've already put out and said that we're going to be doing these things. I have no problem voting for it because we just said we'd do it. But, you know, I just want to be clear. Oh, sorry. Well, it seems redundant to me.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I am afraid that by saying, oh, we're going to have the whole thing done and created by June 30th is inappropriate. The piece that we need to do is we need to let the superintendent know, after he lets us know what he wants, what our intent is with his contract. But there are many, many pieces, and to just define it by June 30th, when you know how many meetings, I mean, some of you have yet to go through a budget meeting and what other meetings we might have in the end of the school year business. I have no problem meeting during the summer and working on a succession plan if we need be. I have no issue with that to tie us into a June 30th meeting. So, I think it would be more appropriate is to inform the superintendent upon our intent and then subsequently, I mean, to make, to create and affirm a succession plan. I just have to tell you, I mean, there's many pieces to a succession plan. And there's going to be many, many parts of this. So I'm a little concerned about that. Absolute. Oh, we're going to have the succession plan by June 30th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Um, yes. Uh, so that the, uh, could you just say how it read right now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. So that's why the word saying a process would be more appropriate because it gives us then the leeway of understanding the superintendent's role in informing us at a later date. However, there is certainly no harm in us having discussions about all the different things. And by the way, just one thing I do want to add. You know, someone brought up their concern, and I absolutely understand. What if something happened to the superintendent? And for years and years and years, the biggest criticism I had of the superintendent, we used to say, delegate, you have to delegate, you have to delegate, because he seemed to be the guy who knew everything. But one of the things, he's been very successful, and I have to say that he really, you know, he really listened to us, He also speaks a lot shorter than he used to, too. But the thing that he does now is he is delegated. And so I know that, God forbid, something happened to the superintendent, that he has so many strong administrative people working for him and our principals and whatever. It is not, I mean, I hope you understand in my saying this, Roy, that if he all of a sudden had a terrible accident that we would be left. without leadership. That's not the way it is. We have very strong leaders across the board, so many talented individuals. And believe me, that has been one of the things that, as I've watched the process over the years, has really changed, that I feel confident that we would not all of a sudden be rudderless in a storm.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, that's right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I mean, you're a taxpayer, so you don't have to keep on saying, I don't have kids in the system. You are a taxpayer. You are a citizen of Medford. You have every right to be concerned about the schools in our community as any other person, any parent, or whatever. Well, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot? So, Bob, one thing I just want to mention to you is that our thinking actually isn't that far apart, because recently I attended the National School Board Conference, and I said to Anne Marie, who was with me at the time, come on, come on, we have to go down and talk to these people, because the topic was how to successfully survey your school population so it's meaningful. And so that's very much been part of my thinking of sort of saying that it is time I believe, to reach out and to send a survey. But, you know, surveys can be useless and they can be powerful. And that's, so that was my thinking about that. I do want to mention to you also that we do establish goals every fall. We talk about them publicly. We argue about them. And those are our guiding lights. Again, personally, I think now we're clearly at the place where we need a succession, to talk about this and I will just assure you that it will happen.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I certainly think they should.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, Bob, you know, every year we do it. Every year, you know, we have three people in the audience.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, as my colleague said, we had a meeting about a curriculum subcommittee meeting. Now, I need to clarify something, and part of the problem is this is very, very complex, and if you just go on and you just look at a ranking, it will totally lead you in ways that are not correct. First of all, my colleague mentioned we're level three. Well, we have one school which is in level three. We were one point away from being level two. They can't tell us what we did wrong so that we get level two, but that's part of the complexity of it all. Okay. Okay. We are a level one high school and have been so for years. Okay. So we're doing awfully good somehow or another. Right. Okay. when you look at these you do have to look at if you there so much uh studies have been done and information is sort of like uh the the uh level of uh of your socioeconomic and your economic standard throughout the city hey i know i know you're gonna you know you know more about your area right now and you can you know you can talk to me and i don't i don't know what you're talking about my point is
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And for years and years and years, one of the things which has been so difficult for me is I see young families have leaving because they think there's a holy grail someplace else. And that's what I've worked for on this committee for all these years of saying that we've got it in Medford and we can do great. The biggest difficulty is when we have a meeting, we discuss these things. and nobody shows up. And so how do I get the information to you so that you can talk to your neighbors and friends about how we're getting out? And one of the things we did was, with great controversy, we just brought in a person to do publicity for us. Because we understand that one of the biggest problems we have is there are so many good things happening in Medford. If you were here earlier, you saw one of them. But getting it out is tough. The publicity. All right. What was your question?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What was the good thing?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Many school systems have now. Okay. Many school systems have.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: One of the things that she does is she has a blog because we realize, I mean, how do we reach parents? Well, we have to do it with the way that parents are looking at media now, and that's through a blog. Sure. You know, the highlights of Medford is not working. Does not work. So we are trying. I mean, we're trying. The communication is key.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I would look forward to talking to another. I didn't get your information, but I'd love to further conversation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: P. VanderKloof.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. I just want to mention that in terms on page three, where it gives the list of changes, there should be eight that a four-hour open house requirement once per season was added. It is added in the document, but it's just not added in that numerical list.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So in the list that Anne-Marie just read on the third page, it's mentioned on the second page, but it's not included. The following represents the changes made by the subcommittee. So that should be number eight. So if I could ask for a correction on that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was thinking about things like a birthday party is a good example. If all of a sudden it's canceled in the last 48 hours before, we can't go out and rent it again, okay? And any other place where a parent would be going to have that kind of function would have a have some kind of cancellation policy. I wasn't thinking about a field and it rains. I mean, that seems like a different sort of contingency. So, again, how we define this in here, we might need to take a look at that. But if we have a theater group you know, who's renting the Caron Theater, and all of a sudden they decide not to hold the performance, should we bear the entire cost of their cancellation, of their last minute cancellation? I think any place where you go would expect some remuneration. Not necessarily great, but some.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. From my reading of it is if we do a correction on number 2 on page 1 of 11 and say a non-refundable security deposit may be required upon acceptance of rental. That, right now, puts it in this document, and then if we need to be more specific in terms of which of the, if we want to spell out which of the, when we might require a... So it gets canceled within 48 hours of event?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: to prevent people from saying they were going to rent a place and then willy-nilly just turning around and not showing up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, when we did it, we had done 48 hours. I don't necessarily know if that's enough, but that's. Mr. Benedetto.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I just, since we're having that subcommittee, it would be a fine time to also discuss when we should require a non-refundable security deposit. And I think it would be, we didn't have Mr. Maloney there. And I think that would be very helpful to have that discussion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We recognize that completely. The reason for putting in a statement which said Hormel Stadium rentals are controlled by the Hormel Commission contact information is so that people who are looking online would get to that because they're trying to rent Hormel and they would see in our document. Oh, so we just really put that as a direction so that you wouldn't be flooded with questions or that somebody would know. It was really a courtesy quite honestly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: What's the projected cost?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I know you were successful last year, and I'm sure that we'll see some of your fundraising that we can help support. I would like to invite both students here to commend them for their achievement. That's really fantastic.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It may not.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We'll see. We'll hope.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's terrific. Thank you so much, Heidi. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekloot. So, Heidi, I know you like a challenge. And this is a pretty great challenge. This is fantastic. Good luck. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. Is there a way that we can publicize that we're looking for, industry level? I mean, might there be other businesses you particularly want to attract?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So one of my friends said to me, did you see the Times? Did you know that the Medford Vocational School is featured in it? Which I didn't, and I still haven't seen it. Do you have a copy of the article? Yes, you have it actually. I could not find it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Uh-huh.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vander Kloof? Amiya, since you mentioned the PSAT funding, I just wanted to ask you, are the AP tests funded, are they, does guidance organize those, or are they organized by department?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And do we provide any funding for AP students?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess I'm a little concerned that for a student taking multiple, I heard my students talking about this, who I oversee, and they were talking about if they were taking multiple tests, if they're not on free or reduced lunch, it's just so expensive. And somehow or another, I would really like to see some funding towards AP exams, because I think that it's such a great thing for our students. We like them doing well. But the funding is prohibitive for a lot of kids. So I'd like to talk to you about that a little bit more.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: One of the schools of the students told me that they pay for all of them. Wow. And I was really impressed. So anyway, I'd like to explore it a little bit more. I know it's another budget item, but it's something we should think about.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vander Kloof. I just want to say that, of course, how wonderful all the concerts were. They really were outstanding. Unfortunately, the one I missed was the hand chime, but I think it's so great that we have that as an offering in Medford. And, you know, my hat is always off to Mr. Zigny and Ms. Rello and the other teachers. Perhaps they're the luckiest teachers because we do see the results of their work, but it was really outstanding. And of course, tonight was a great example of the work in our fine arts department.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. van de Kloot. So this is just fantastic. I should tell you that my daughter develops, works for a company which develops iOS apps. And so I, you know, I have firsthand experience of sort of knowing what an incredible career potential this is. And so I guess my biggest concern is after the grant ends, what we do, because this is something that we would like, I would like to see continued. And again, like you say, it's going to be very interesting to see. where the kids who are being exposed now, where they go with it, and what they do at the high school level. So I just want to commend you for all your work and thank you for your work on this project.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'd like to ask to suspend the order of business so that we could take up items 1, 2, and 3 before we have the report of committees.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So first, Mr. Coates, I heard that this was in the wind when I went to a historical meeting and society meeting, and I cannot believe how great the finished product looks. Years ago when I first started on the school committee, there was another book and it was very weak. And this is so wonderful, and the fact that you've included students in the, also highlighting some of the students, how proud they must be to be authors as well. So thank you for all of your dedication, for bringing Medford history to light, and for including our students so that they can look back and think about the time that they've been in a published author. Mr. Sloan, thank you for your generosity. We really appreciate your support of everything you do in Medford, and this is just a terrific testament to that. Thank you so much for being here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanna mention not only congratulations to this fine young lady on her achievement, but also as Ms. Liu slinks away, she was the, last week was the National Honor Society, and Ms. Liu is the advisor for that club. She did such a lovely job, though she never wants to take any credit, so I'm outing her and saying thank you very much, Mrs. Liu, for your work with our students.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I would actually prefer not to waive it. It was a very important subcommittee meeting. It was a great meeting. And so, I'd like to review some of what we've talked about. So, we called the meeting to order at 7.05. In attendance was myself, Mr. Iscari, Mrs. Mastone, and committee member, Erin DiBenedetto, who is not on the subcommittee, but joined us. Also in attendance were Superintendent Belson, Deputy Superintendent Beverly Nelson, Assistant Superintendent Diane Caldwell, and Director of Curriculum Bernadette Riccidelli. In addition, and most thankfully, I was very grateful that we had five parents who attended, Kate Carson, Michelle Ciccolo, Jennifer Lewis, Cheryl Rodriguez, and Ellery Klein. On the agenda were three items, the park opt-out situation, Then, parent concerns regarding homework policy and practice. And lastly, the state accountability system and Medford performance, with specific discussion around the Roberts School. Superintendent explained the roles and rules governing the subcommittee meeting. And we began by talking about the state DESC guidance on opt-out. Deputy Superintendent Nelson provided a handout that identified the state's position. And I think that we're going to be updated with that later on. And so I'm going to skip down now to the part of the meeting where we talked about the parental concerns about the homework policy and practice. Parent Jen Lewis made an initial presentation, and there's items attached to the report. And she raised issues of quantity, quality, and variation among teachers. There were particular concern regarding homework in the early grades, and in fact, in kindergarten as well. Also, there were concerns about some teachers using homework as a punishment, which might include the loss of recess time for students not completing homework. Parent Kate Carson, a teacher herself, talked about the stress that homework places on young children and families. And she brought an exchange that she had with Tufts professor Martha Potts, speaking about homework and what really is the point of homework and how to have homework that's really valuable. Parent Michelle Chickalow felt that the nightly homework that her student was getting was too much. Parent Ellarie Klein said that the students showed that homework for early learners is not effective. However, parent Cheryl Rodriguez was more pro-homework and felt it played a valuable role. Assistant Superintendent Diane Caldwell spoke to us and she said that the goal for homework was 10 minutes per grade. In kindergarten, maybe just reading with the student, but in first grade, 10 minutes, in second grade, 20, et cetera. And it seemed like that was not consistent with the parents that we were hearing. And so for the parent who was happier with the homework, it seemed like it fell within that reasonable time. But overall, parents talked about the stress of homework in their lives and saying that it became such a very negative thing rather than a positive learning situation for their children. You note that I embellished that a little bit on our written minutes. Superintendent Belson spoke on the need to be developmentally appropriate and that using homework as a punishment is not acceptable. He emphasized that homework well done can be important, but that is not to be just a make work activity. And again, reference back to Diane Caldwell talking about the new K-2 program, which is going back to a more developmentally friendly classroom, which should include homework. I talked about our experience with homework from one particular teacher at the fifth grade level who had flexible homework, which was to say all the assignments needed to be done by a particular time. But during the week, the student and family could pick which days they might spend time on homework, as long as it was done by a certain date. And that kind of flexibility in today's chaotic world for parents who are both coming home from work really, really would be appreciated. The committee will study the parent proposal and report back. Meanwhile, the administrators will reinforce best practices with our teaching faculty. The meeting then moved to the topic of the state accountability system and the Medford performance in 2015. There was particular emphasis on the Roberts School. Superintendent began by saying that we should begin the review with the accountability status focusing on the big picture. Medford Public Schools has eight schools that are eligible for accountability ratings by DESC. Only one school has been designated as a Level 3 school. That designation was one point below the Level 2 threshold. Medford High School and the vocational school are both designated as level one. And the superintendent goes on to give us some comparisons to neighboring communities. For example, Waltham Elementary, Waltham High, Woburn High, Quincy High, Peabody High, and Malden High are all level three. And if we look at elementary schools, many communities in Redding, Somerville, Waltham, Quincy, Framingham, for example, all fall in level three. However, that really was not what we were concerned about. We were concerned about trying to make sure that all of our students were being educated in the best possible way and how we could improve because we are in the business of improvement. So Deputy Superintendent Beverly Nelson made several points about the accountability system and Medford's performance. And then there was a discussion on the population distribution among the schools. The superintendent pointed out that the Roberts had a substantial population of ELL newcomers However, it would be difficult to move them to all other schools because of staffing concentrations. And also, we're not interested in just moving students around to improve score levels. What we're interested in is to make sure, again, that we're meeting the needs of the students. So Assistant Superintendent Caldwell spoke on our current and planned interventions. For current and past activities, we're mass supports in grades three, four, and five, and directors working with teachers to disaggregate data. Moving forward, in ELL, we've got two more staff positions for growing ELL population, two paraprofessionals as well. And as you know, we have a very transient population where we have kids who arrive any time during the school year. But moving forward, we discussed the hiring of two math coaches for the elementary schools for grades level two, three, and four, and to continue to work with DSAC for professional development opportunities. Envision our math program is going into the third year and we hope to see more positive results. We're going to intensify classroom review and have grade level meetings and it was suggested and confirmed that we would have more math nights at the school. The discussion turned to the value of coaching. Mr. Benedetto had concerns about whether the coaches would be considered teacher evaluators and the answer was no. Ms. Mistone commented that coaching was not evaluative, and I spoke about coaches as being as models for teachers. The general finding was that the state DSAC was not providing real assistance, and they were short on answers, so it was a little frustrating, but we'll continue to work with them. The subcommittee concluded that we have challenges ahead, but there were several concrete measures in place. The meeting was adjourned with the understanding that we would come back for a further discussion and report on the homework policies.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just want to again mention how valuable it was that the parents came and participated in the subcommittee meeting, and I was very grateful for that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It was a great presentation the other day, and I was very honored to be able to attend. I think, you know, you can't help but feel proud when you realize that what we have in Medford is the goal for the rest of the state. And that was very, very clear. That's, you know, part of the reason why the speaker came out. was because we were being held up as the exemplary program. It would be remiss if I did not happen to mention, since I'm old enough to remember, but the superintendent was key in developing the Medford Family Network, and it was through his work that it came into being.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just wanted to thank my colleagues, Irwin DiBenedetto and Bob Scurry, for their work on this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: How are we going to communicate it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I noted where you said four pre-K students with complex medical needs registered in the district. Are those students in the same classroom?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: position maintained in your budget for next year, so the two additional is on top of that, correct? It's always amazing to me when I see the list of students, you know, 336 diagnosed with allergies, you know, the number with diabetes, the number with, you know, such complex medical needs, and know what great dedication your staff has to keep all the balls in the air safely. It's a juggling game sometimes. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vander Ploot. Personally, I don't think it's good practice to have a meeting on Halloween.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, no, because I believe that there are certain members who need to be home with their students, uh, their children and the other members who need to be at home giving out candy. So if we could please, uh, look at the calendar again and change that October 31st meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I am concerned about number eight, access to the main school building should be limited to emergencies. That assumes that someone's going to have a key or to the main school building.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But doesn't that put a responsibility on us to always have someone in the high school who can open it up? I mean, I think it's clearer if there is no access to the school facility.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, to me, it's clearer because if we put in except limited to emergencies, it seems that it puts on to us a responsibility. And I think the responsibility has to be with the people who are operating the facility to use our emergency in the city. Also, you did not include, we talked about provisions for snow days. Because my concern was that all of a sudden there'll be pressure for us to do snow removal when our snow plows are busy. So I've written this way. The facility will be closed during snow days unless the vendor arranges snow removal acceptable to the school department.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But it's not always clear, because sometimes it takes us two or three or four days.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We could replace. The facility may be closed during snow days. But also what I'm saying is, hey, if you want it open, then you pay for the snow removal.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On school cancellation days. I mean, we talked about it last weekend, I think. So the facility may be closed during snow emergencies. unless the vendor arranges snow removal acceptable to the Medford School Department.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to make sure, because it's very crowded at that time, the lots were fully used, and in fact, I was driving around looking for a parking space for quite a while, that in that case, and I'm certainly assuming that a Saturday morning would be a very popular time to use this facility, that that lot in the back that the vendor is using the 100 cars would be for the vendor's use during that period of time, and that there would be no conflict with our existing contract with the Japanese language school.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just have one further question. Sure. What is the date of the meeting for us to discuss community schools? I'm sorry? What is the date of the meeting? It's the 9th. May 9th, which is next? May 9th, OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Very good. Okay. Ms. Vanden Heuvel. I was just thinking that it would be very helpful if the superintendent sent to members a draft, his next draft, rather than waiting until May 16th, because there may be edits that we need to do. And if we wait all the way until the 16th, I'm afraid that we'll be at a meeting like this where we're sort of saying, you forgot this or whatever. So I'm not quite sure how to do it, but I think it would be advantageous to see it in between.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But on the other hand, we could communicate directly with you one-on-one.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On the other hand, we could give you feedback directly one-on-one.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Um, I note that they have not updated the change of our esteemed mayor. And so perhaps one, somebody should communicate with them about, sorry, it's listed as mayor McGlynn. They haven't updated that. I'll talk to them. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The superintendent, it was my understanding that at some point there was some money that was put aside for art projects. Um, and this would seem, uh, without knowing too much about it, uh, uh, to be the perfect candidate, uh, for it. Um, so I wonder if you could, uh, let us know how, uh, the PTO, uh, the Roberts could go about getting this, this, uh, project funded.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'd like to make a motion that after review by the superintendent that the funds be appropriated for this project at the Roberts. Second.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ms. Van der Kloot. Yes, I just wanted to ask one question about the timing of this project again. When were you hoping to do it with the kids?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So this means if the committee approves my motion that the superintendent needs to review as quickly as possible so that we can put this on the fast track.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Dr. Perrella, we, the school committee, were concerned and expressed our concern about the possibility of some students being very nervous once they were informed or uncomfortable. And I am curious whether, in fact, any parents came up to get students, and these students expressed the desire to go home, or whether any students were particularly bothered by this information and how you followed up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great, thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Sam, I was just curious about how many classrooms come to visit the library. I know that my daughters receive library cards when they came in that we had to sign in advance and they went down to the library and they were all so excited and they came home with their library card. So how many, you know, is there schools who send all their first graders or Well, how does it exist now?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. And probably, I mean, part of it always is the cost of transportation, the buses, but it would seem that it might make a whole lot of sense, and again, it's just the cost of the transportation, but to do a drive, I mean, there's been some good suggestions here about other ways to do it. I think that there is value in getting the kid actually into the library. and having you talk to them. So I think that I'd like to also throw about and discuss the possibility of making it consistent, like in the fifth grade, all the fifth graders go on some field trips. Well, maybe this should be the field trip for all the kindergartners or first graders or whatever. So I just want to think about that as a potential, too, so that it's not just this kid at this school, but this is one of the things that the Medford public schools do. All kids are going to go to visit the Medford Public Library. And I, of course, am understanding your timing, you know, before the summer, so that they've got the resources during the summer. We might not be able to get all of those kids to do it, but maybe if we look at that towards the future, it would make a lot of sense. Lastly, Sam, I just would like to thank you for your incredible energy and enthusiasm that you bring to everything that you do at the library.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I don't know where we could get funds for that, but thanks. A couple questions. I couldn't quite figure out what the cost of the trip would be. It's around $4,000. It's expensive. And also, I was curious, last time you went to both Italy and France. This time you're doing a more in-depth trip in Italy. Was there any particular reason? Was that because of political concerns?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm wondering, Anne, whether in your award you were awarded money to help cover the cost of your travel to Arizona.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: By the way, my daughter went to WPI, and she absolutely loved it. Great place. Congratulations. Thank you. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: to the audience. We just want to be in the picture so that when she wins the Nobel Prize, we can say we remember when. Madam Mayor. Madam Mayor. It's also remarkable that so many of our students did well getting into the top 43 and being recognized with cash rewards. We met many of these students earlier, but it certainly would make sense for us to send out to them a letter of congratulations from the school committee for their achievement at the regional science fair. I remember going many years ago, and to have this many Medford students is definitely a very welcome sight. Congratulations, Mr. Seery.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, I'm somewhat taken aback only because I didn't quite realize that was, I didn't quite grasp that it has been, will not, and in the past, the most difficult, one of the most difficult days of my life was the day when some sweet young ladies called me and they were going to be removed from social probation and not being able to attend. And one of the problems, of course, is that they were sweet young ladies with much less body weight than their male counterparts, but they were not allowed to attend. And at the time, the principal, Dr. Kruger, headmaster Dr. Kruger said, you know, Paulette, I'd much rather have you have a hard time doing this than having to go to a funeral. And that was pretty, you know, what could you say? My concern here with this is that, of course, we're coming up to that time when we all get very nervous because there's so many events for our students, which traditionally we've done very, very well in Medford. But since Dr. Perel is here, just to please ask him to remind the students that this is a very important time in their lives for our seniors who are coming up and that they would not want to have a blight, even with You know, now if we're saying, well, we're going to be a little bit more thoughtful about giving out the punishment of will not attend graduation for the students we want them, we don't want it to even be a question for them to have to consider. So it's just so important and so very difficult for families if a child is not able to attend graduation. So I don't want to even think about it. I want them to go smoothly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: You know, I think many of us have worked with Anne over the years and she has really is distinct. I mean, we have many, many parents who volunteer for long periods of time, but Anne has put so much energy into that up all night party and is really stands out. I remember there was one year when she actually had a hiatus, I think, between children for a year, but it didn't stop her at all from making sure that that group of kids in between, before her next child entered into ninth grade, was well taken care of. I think that she definitely is deserving of an honor, and if we would ask her, We have other parents on stage, the parents of the valedictorian, the salutatorian, and the student from the vocational school, so we probably could fit two more seats up there.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. This year we were blessed because of a warmer winter to have savings, just as many of us were at home too. I noticed that our bills were down as well, almost comparatively to the schools. But it's just that when we're planning for next year, we have to remember not this winter, but the winter before, just to make sure that when we do our budget sessions, we're not the incredibly optimistic, of this year, but we are realistic to the year before. So I'm just mindful of that because it looks so good this year. On the food service, I just want to, I think, reiterate that of the $88,000 surplus, that that money then is taken and will fold over into needed upgrades of different things in our food service. Is that correct? That is correct. Because I think that's very important for people to realize, because if you say 88,000 surplus, then you're asking, oh, why did we raise the cost of lunch? We raised it because we need to cover, it's a self-funding program, and it needs to cover other necessary items. And that's the way we do it. So while it's a that money was generated because there are expenses that need to be paid out of that money to keep us in good shape. Is that correct? That is correct.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, it sounds like he has some great ideas. I am also glad to see in the report that you attached that we're going to be able to continue the food service program during the summer that we began last year. So thank you very much, Pat. You're welcome.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I was just wondering. I noticed that Mrs. DiCarlo is here, and we received a report on our desk. Perhaps before we go on to the lead counsel in school rentals, we might want to turn to this report. Are you presenting this tonight?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Sure. We received in our packet a wonderful, this is more good news, Medford High School students of Italian win first prize in contest at Northeastern University. Do you want to take over?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. DeCarlo, you missed the best line, though, which is Medford High School won first place, Lexington High School won second place, and Everett High School won third place. Right.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would put in a point of information. Because I sat on the committee that was going through the policy handbook, I need to, just for those of you who weren't there, to tell you it was an extraordinarily arduous task. We met night after night after night with Jim Hardy. going through all of these different policies. And when you see SOURCE, M-A-S-C, those were ones that he brought along and said, this is the M-A-S-C policy that many school districts have adopted. When Jim went to that place, and we posted this, since we had worked on this for so long, and it was finally time to post it, it's very clear to me now, looking backwards, that this must have just been set aside, probably to go to the subcommittee, and it was not. So I think to answer your question, Mrs. DiBenedo, is that unfortunately the two MASC policies would be, in my recollection, ones that Jim brought in for our purview, and the other ones were ones that we found in our paperwork that had existed over some period of years. What the superintendent is recommending, and is clearly the logical thing to do, is now to sit down, take a look at all four, and develop our own, along with the fee structure. I will note that Mrs. DiBenedetto and I were able to attend Fiddler on the Roof this past week. It was excellent. We really had a very enjoyable time. But afterwards it was, when we had a discussion with one of the teachers, it was clear that they had had to work around a rental that took place the previous weekend, which, to an outside vendor. And that didn't make any sense at all. Our kids needed that space to be able to prepare for their yearly spring musical. And we were both disheartened to hear that that had happened, because I think that the committee as a whole is of the priority that our Medford High School kids take first priority. So it would seem that this would be the logical thing to now send to a subcommittee and work out a new policy and a new fee structure and then finally be able to post this as our new policy.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I was just simply going to say that I did not think that we needed a motion because we had already had a motion earlier for all the things that Mrs. DiBenedetto mentioned, and I think we're all in agreement. Also, in the report that the superintendent gave us, it says very clearly we have been working on a new policy and free structure since our last committee of the whole. We would expect to have it ready for your review by the first meeting in May. Any new policy should be carefully studied and approved for the next school year. So I definitely believe we're on the right track and appreciate the Attorney Greenspan for coming out tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, which organizations exactly? Our Medford Little League, Babe Ruth, and our softball. With the fee structure or not?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: it would be appropriate to add an amendment on to the main motion that, and I forget the exact wording of the main motion. Okay, but that the superintendent will follow up with the organizations to make sure that adequate supervision and custodial services and insurance will cover, are in place.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But if you want to send that back. The motion with the amendment had to do with the outside groups using the cages for the next short period of time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: A further one. And we have a citizen who's been waiting to speak. Are you wanting to speak on this?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I certainly understand what you're saying, um, Mr. Superintendent, but the only concern I have is that our May 2nd meeting is three weeks off. So in three weeks off, you know, right now, I mean, part of the, I think that part of the intent initially was that you go on record and you say, at least for the, the intent of the motion would be that we're against any legislation that raises the current current cap on charter schools. And then secondarily, we are for full funding of the foundation budget. I really think that that's what it comes down to. I'm just concerned that we're now talking about saying you're going to bring us back something in three weeks after the debate is all done. Perhaps it would make more sense to, and you know, I don't know whether what the vote of this committee would be on those two very simply put items. Because I put it very simply.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right, we still happen to have vacation week in between this then.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay, well, we obviously all can still talk to our legislators separately. So I think that bringing it forth to us the week sooner at the Committee of the Whole would make a lot of sense.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So thank you, Ann Marie, for that clarification. That makes a lot of sense. So technically, you know, I don't necessarily think we have to vote on it, but if my colleague wants to vote on it, there's no reason not to just vote on it and take it off, get it off our deck. So I'll second her motion so we vote on it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I had a question.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So at this point, our principals have all been informed about how they should respond to a parent who requests that their child should not take the test.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Bernadette, yeah. I just, I guess, I just want to make sure that if a family does come forward and not want their child to take the test, that it's handled. And I did appreciate the line, you know, with sensitivity, so that neither the parent or the child is made to feel guilty about their choice not to take the test.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do parents need to put it in writing that they don't want their child to take the test?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, we don't have a form that they sign. So I understand how important it is and we encourage parents to take it. I also understand all the arguments of the opt-out people. So I just want to make sure that students and that it is handled appropriately. And I would also like this committee to receive after the testing cycle is done, obviously not names, but simply numbers at each school, if there are opt-outs at the schools, if we could receive a report. And at grade levels, please. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vander Kloof. So, Ms. Rich here, once again, you have brought us to the point where you have just pushed us forward and now have us... headed into a direction for the future of our students and the well-being of them and what we offer in Medford or the possibilities of what we offer. Obviously, this is just the first step. First, a technical question. When do you have to file this statement of interest? What's the first deadline? April 10th. And could you need our approval on saying, yes, we're interested in moving forth? There is no, obviously, no dollar amount or anything at this point. It's just simply we're interested. And what is the next step?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Does this need to go before the city council? Eventually. Yes. Eventually, but not before the letter of intent on April 10th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But right now, simply for tonight and to be able to move on, it's just, we can vote on this. And so I make a recommendation, a motion to approve.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, I just wanted to express my thanks to Heidi once again for bringing forth our report. I think that the proposal from Mr. Biglioni sort of almost goes outside of the school committee purview at this time, because right now our project and our sites are really looking forward to what we're doing at the school and the educational benefits to the students. And I don't want to throw something together even if it has merit that we're not really quite ready to do at this point. know how quickly the rest of the school year will go. And while I know it's been very, very frustrating for you and many in the community who are looking forward to a broader access TV, I think that, you know, I'm really putting, I want to put my eggs in this basket right now. Again, I don't know because there's a lot of things I simply don't know about the proposal, how much a van would cost, who would drive the van, all of those sorts of issues, and I think that goes actually beyond us right at the moment.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Could we suspend the order so that we could take up the order? Brooke School Art Teachers request permission for mural.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Well, that's actually, I mean, it's incredibly cute. And, um, but that actually is my question as well. And I'm concerned that you really need to check that out because even if it's in the style of, if it's purple, you know, with a little boy named Harold drawing it. So I think that probably, you probably need to, I'm not sure if the author's still living at this point.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I still would contact the publisher and ask. I mean, but it's wonderful and it's great, and so you certainly have my approval if there's no concerns about whether we don't have to pay any royalties. Okay?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. First, I'd like to congratulate all the students who attended the competition results, and you've done a great job and represent us well. In terms of the competition, could you tell us where it is?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So in terms of, will the students be staying overnight?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: How much does it cost for a student to attend?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. And I see that you have the fundraiser which hopefully will make a lot of that money.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Great. So I have a motion to approve. How many students do you think you'll be taking?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. So I'd like to make a motion to approve the overnight trip to SkillsUSA.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I think this is a tremendously exciting area. I'm so happy that our students are going to have this advantage and congratulate all of those who were involved, including yourself, Heidi, for making sure that this moved forward and is now before us tonight.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Thank you. Pat, I didn't quite understand on the TransFinder program, is it, will the students be wearing identification that's got a chip in it, or how does it work?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess I didn't fully understand because she said if there was an accident, we would know who was on the bus.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But how do you know whether which kids didn't ride the bus that day?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. So I just wondered whether, in the meantime, it made sense to adapt the letter for Medford, so that we would actually be voting on the letter we would be sending rather than the Ludlow.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Massachusetts, many communities are speaking out with a resolution about the foundation budget and urging the full financing of the foundation budget. Unfortunately, I didn't have time to put together a resolution, but I'm wondering if either we take them both up on Wednesday when we're meeting anyway, or we leave them to our meeting of next week.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. So I've been thinking about this since our last meeting, and there's just, there's a phrase which I find awkward, I guess, and that is non-public safety personnel. Now, maybe it's one that's used all the time, but I wondered, like, when I read the sentence, I was, I just kept on playing with it and saying, just feel right, can you write the sentence a different way and say the school environment is sealed off from the public and only appropriately public safety personnel be able to enter until the situation is stabilized? What was the term you wanted to use? And then the second, so the school environment is sealed off from the public, and only appropriate safety personnel, designated safety personnel, will be able to enter until the situation is stabilized.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yep.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So safety personnel.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And in this, in the second one, it says no non-public safety personnel can enter the building. And it would make more sense to say only public safety personnel can enter the building.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I would be comfortable postponing it, either doing it earlier to the 14th or putting it off for a week to the 28th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I make a motion that we move it to the 28th?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Order of business, so we can take up number two, report on Boston Globe Scholastic Writing Awards.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes, there was a parent in the audience who had written us, Ms. Valdez.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van de Vliet. Thank you, Madam Mayor. So when a student goes on a trip like that, there is a risk, and the risk is that it's canceled. And it is fairly clear in the policy that 75% would be refunded from the company. However, on the evening that this happened, I remember distinctly that the tone was definitely that we would try and work something out. And again, part of it, as my colleague alludes to, was definitely something for the kids because of their excitement and interest in wanting to undertake this activity. But there is the other piece of the money. Personally, I don't think that we can refund the whole thing from the school department. I actually don't think it would be appropriate. I do think that if I were looking at it in addition to whatever we do, I would be inclined to at least refund $100 to each parent, possibly $115, which would be half of the money. And then it needs to be clear. And the reason I would do that is because it's never happened before. It's never happened since I've sat on this school committee that I remember that we had a similar case, certainly which involved as many students. However, I think it's one of those things where the parent knows that they're taking somewhat of a risk, and so we're sharing the risk, if you would. Gives people back a little bit of money, certainly shows good faith on our part, but then becomes a very clear precedent of saying, you know, in the future, if trips are canceled, the only money which is, I mean, refunded will be the 75 percent from the company, because now we have such a clear indication. My thinking would be, and I'm not going to make it a motion yet because I know other people might have other thinking, but my thinking right now is that I would recommend to refund 100 or 115, I don't know which, whatever my colleagues think, and split the difference between us and the parents. And in addition, we would like to see, I'm just sure that if there was an event locally, You know, it's not like we're saying that money covers the cost of the event. We're trying to put together an event with other people just to, so the kids have an opportunity to talk to other people in government. Any thoughts?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess, let's say half, 115.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. I think that it makes sense to go ahead and vote on this tonight and not hold it, because I think it would be a wonderful thing for the kids to go down to the day on the hill. it's certainly not going to cost that much for a bus. And if it is there a bus, I think that's something that, you know, the school department can cover. So I would ask that we go ahead and vote for the refund to the parents and while at the same time trying to ensure the kids have that opportunity.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: In a past event, I had the opportunity, as did the mayor, to attend on Friday morning the high school candidates forum, where our students portrayed the different candidates. It was so exceptional. I really wish all of you had been able to make it. And again, it was just one of those. The kids did such a great job. members from the League of Women Voters there, and I kept on glancing over at them as they were historically falling off their seats. The kids did such a great job impersonating, knowing the candidates' positions, and going back and forth. And of course, it's been such a highly unusual year in some ways that it certainly lent itself to a fabulous presentation, and our students just did us really proud. It was a lot of fun.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van der Kloot. Is there parking set aside at each of the elementary schools for voters?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So where will voters park? Usually people vote park There's a stretch along the side. That will be open?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay. Yes. Great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I did because, you know, it doesn't surprise us because Pat goes above and beyond for everything she does. We're very, very lucky.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Um, so the superintendent alluded to the fact that in fact, in the fall, there were other concerns, a concern about a group using the McGlynn on weekends and also posting pictures of the McGlynn auditorium. And at that point we raised this issue and it was simply because of the timing of the election and whatever that it was put off, but it's definitely time that we take it off. It's not just about the fields. It's about the entire, uh, uh, process of, uh, school facilities being used by outside groups. And, you know, it's just to be clear, we have had in the past contracts and rates and everything else set up in the past very clearly demarcated. I sat on those committees for years, but clearly something is not now being utilized. So I think this needs to be a committee of the whole, the discussion. And I would ask, I certainly would support Erin's amendments, if you might repeat them, but I think that we're all on the same page that this is something we absolutely need to look at sooner rather than later.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. A couple of things. The first thing is there's so many wonderful different activities here, but I was concerned because when I looked at these I thought of a certain a group of very motivated students who would be interested in these. How are we making sure that we're outreaching to other students and widening the circle?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do we have any idea how many kids have participated?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's good. And the other thing on this symposium, which is taking place, it says there's limited spots. Is that limited by the number of people who could fit into the little theater?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Scorger, thank you for all of your work. One of the things which I know is that doing an event like this takes a lot of work, and turning out people is not always the easiest thing because there's always so many different other commitments that people have. Are you releasing this to the different Rotary and different groups in town? And I'm just wondering what your outreach is.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's excellent. I also was wondering whether teachers who attend would be eligible for a PDP point or is there any way? I can't do that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And we do have the paper present. And I do think doing the robocalls really does let people know in the community. So thank you very much for all your effort and that goes as well to the students.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: If we were going to do that, I'd much prefer it to be at a committee of the whole and a different, this environment is not conducive to the sort of data analysis that we would need to do. So I would suggest a committee of the whole if we were to go that path.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you, Madam Mayor. I'm too troubled by this. Partly my biggest concern is how does it, how is it going to be interpreted by the parents of the Roberts? because as a parent of the Roberts, I would assume that, you know, it would be, it's very complex information. We sound as if, you know, we're trying to make excuses because after all, this is the, you know, report we're getting, but we understand all the technicalities involved, but that's hard to translate. And so I would, I know that a letter needs to go out to the parents of the Roberts, and I just hope that that is well crafted and that, If there needs to be subsequent meetings with the parents to reassure them, that you will obviously do that. I have no doubt that you will.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Will you let us know when that's going to take place? Yeah, I think that's a good idea. Again, totally concerned about this. Does this rating now stand for two years? Is there still a two-year cycle that there used to be?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And the other concern, of course, is the one you mentioned about the cohorts of the number of kids changing and that a child can be in multiple cohorts. If you have a child who's truly struggling, that means, you know, if there's only 20 kids, that's a significant change. And, you know, if you have one or two kids, that is going to change your numbers significantly.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: By the way, I just want to mention that last week I did have the opportunity to go visit two of the kindergarten classes. It was a wonderful experience. I walked through the building as well and talked and stopped and talked to a couple of teachers. I saw the students working hard. I was at the kindergarten classes. I think the most interesting thing, again, they were very much similar to classes that I was used to when my children attended at the Hervey, except that there was a higher caliber of learning going on. When we hear kindergarten is more like first grade, I saw that. I saw the material that they were doing. And it was just both teachers who I visited who had been here one night, Ms. Goss and Ms. Skiffington, and the whole experience was so wonderful. I do hope that the other ones of you who can take advantage. And you don't want to be disruptive in the classroom, but if you get a chance to go in, it's great. And by chance, I was at the Roberts, and I went into an ELL classroom where it was just fantastic. So it's funny that the words of the superintendent saying, there's an awful lot of good things going. And when I was there personally, I saw those good things going on.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Van de Kloof. I just want to mention, I didn't get to it this year because I had gone two years ago. Um, and You know, it's funny, sometimes I catch myself being distracted, and I visualize that pink wristband. So even two years after, that program has an impact on me, an adult. So it's really excellent. It's on my dashboard.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vandekly. Mr. Superintendent, you indicated, and as we know, Medford is not a member district to Minuteman, just the way Arlington is, for example. But at one point along the line, I remember that they were arguing that we should pay a bigger share when they built a new school because, after all, if we had kids attending. At this point, that discussion is totally off the table, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The other question I have is within, obviously, we have some great programs and expansion of our vocational school. You've just indicated that Waltham is doing the same with themselves. Is there, yet somehow Minuteman has managed to say, yes, there is a need for our school, a continuous need. Is there, within Massachusetts and the other vocational schools, more capacity so that students could be absorbed in a different way?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion to accept and place on file.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam Mayor, we do not have the costs associated with the... We do, okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Have you got it? Okay. You're being presented with $1,700.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Just hold it for a minute.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: While I was not able to go this year, I did attend last year, and altogether this year there were 20 Medford students. And I know last year when the kids spoke, it just blew everybody away. And I happen to know one of these students, and he's such a fabulous kid. And these are the sorts of things which, again, makes Medford awfully proud when our students go out and speak like this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'm really anticipating my visit tomorrow morning with the kids. I have to tell you that interestingly, way back when, when we had the Hervey Developmental School, this reminds me very, very, very much of what my students, my own kids had at the Hervey for developmental education. In fact, one of the greatest differences actually is when I got to the last page and I saw some emphasis on phonics, which is one thing they didn't do particularly well back then. But the small group and like you said, you know, the kids doing the most amazing projects and working together. It's a joy and I'm really anticipating seeing your classrooms tomorrow.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for being here.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vantaflue. I just wanted to mention that by chance, about, I think, two years ago, I met Mr. Solnier, and at that time, I was just hoping that at some point we could tempt him to become the teacher because his passion, his knowledge, his expertise in this field, and his knowledge of the fellows is just extraordinary. And I'm sure that this program is getting off on the very best foot with him in that position. I'm glad you were able to get him. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam Mayor, at this though, it looks like the first opportunity is April 26th. Is that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: For, on the yellow flyer, building bridges to kindergarten.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, again, when I heard parents talking, they were asking it for earlier because they were trying to make decisions. And so, for me, April, that late in April actually feels late because they wanted it
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just saying we can't do that session any earlier. We can't do another one earlier. I'm not sure about that, but I can check for you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mayor Burke. Um, I was wondering if perhaps what we might do is invite our, uh, legislators to our meeting. We always have to be careful to avoid, um, uh, not having the open meeting law honored. And so all of us might like to go on Thursday night, but we can't because of the open meeting law. Um, and so perhaps, uh, As a follow up, it would make a whole lot of sense to sit down with our legislators as a committee and follow up on those items which are important, not just to one member, but to all of us.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I think I'd like to put that in the form of a motion that we have a set up a meeting with our legislators so that the committee as a whole can sit down and speak with them about our concerns. Just one follow up to your thought. Of course, the governor also has a strong liking of charter schools, which is difficult for us. And I think that's extremely important that we're always making the distinction of an and explaining our concerns, why that's problematical for the public school system. And I think we stand, you know, to really say these are our strengths, look what we're doing here, look what our vocational school is, look at our class sizes, look what we're doing, because this, you know, when you listen to the charter school proponents, While, of course, there were some charter schools that perhaps are strong, they certainly are not. And I believe that is the cornerstone of the great values of this country is public education for all kids. And I don't define that as having a dual system of education.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So charter schools are public schools. I also noted it was a dual system of education.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pat, don't you ever go on first? Don't you ever move up in the agenda? What are- Vealy, at the end. Vealy, sorry. Good evening, Mayor, school committee.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Pat, I just had a question about the school breakfast expansion grants. So I see a decrease for fiscal year 16. How is that going to impact our school breakfast programs?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you for the comprehensive report.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Motion of approval.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: It's the last page on the motion.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Mayor, I just wanted to say, I think this is a terrific thing for us to be doing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I kind of think it's sort of neat in a way just because it brings the two communities together as our, you know, arch rival on the football field at Thanksgiving. But I do have the concerns of making sure and I'm glad it's going to be revisited yearly to see whether it works.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, I liken this to a shell game, and I agree with my colleagues, because, you see, I think Mr. Chester must be laughing all the way, oh, we don't want, they don't want the park, okay, so we'll call it MCAS 2.0, and, you know, The big question is, what money were they getting before, was PARC getting before, and what money are they getting now? I sort of figure that it's probably they're doing just as well. I hate tricky questions. I think the math question, when you look at the math question, that's a tricky question, because obviously if a student looks at it, they're going to see two different lengths and lines, so you can fall for it. So what we're going to be educating our children is not to fall for a tricky question. So which goes beyond just understanding the math. It goes beyond that. It means don't fall for a tricky question. And so we'll spend a lot of time now teaching them how to answer these questions rather than, I think, doing what our real mission in education should be, is educating a child. about and fostering a level of learning and not just simply preparing them for a test. It is not to say that, of course, these are things that students need to know. They need to know fractions. They need to know how to compare fractions, et cetera, et cetera. But there's a way to do that with out, making it a tricky question. We have, I think, no choice, because, by the way, if I want to make a prediction, I'm going to predict that the school districts who did park last year are going to magically do better the second time around than the school districts who are doing them for the first time. Mark my words, guys, that's the way it's going to be. We have no choice. We need to do this.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Mayor? I had a question about utilities. So on this, my question was that it seems like there's quite an increase, and you mentioned that it's partly because of the warmer weather, but also that the pool was open two additional months. How much of the increase does that, if it was a 76.6 thousand increase, how much does the pool account for?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah. I mean, just because it is, you know, 76,000 is significant. Now I see that it's offset a little bit by the savings so far. Um, but you know, it definitely is a concern given that there was no price increase.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I'm just saying that I just want to remind you that it's already been requested to Erin, because earlier this fall, I very specifically went and spoke and asked for the same information. And I think the superintendent is saying that he would get to us at the beginning of next year. I certainly don't want it to wait until March. I know, but I want to have a meeting regarding it and know everything.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I haven't seen them yet.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's great.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. No. Mr. Mayor.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Aye. I just, you know, I know some of the kids going on that trip and they're looking so forward to it. Has there been any discussion with them yet? Was there any discussion today?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And if I could ask specifically, I wonder if there's been any conversation with the group that's hosting the event and whether there's any chance they might put it off. Since the other school's systems must have our same concerns.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. It's nice to hear a little bit more. It's very, very disappointing for the students.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I had the opportunity to see the video. I went on the web page and I noticed it and I clicked on it and I just have to say I was so proud of these students when I saw the video. Tears came to my eyes and I was really, really felt very proud of our students winning this award. So thank you very, very much.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Mayor? Ms. Vertu. I would also like to thank the three teachers who went along for the presentation.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Mayor. I noticed that in the report that we got and it said under false state leadership skills USA we were seeking approval to attend this overnight leadership experience for six students and one advisor and that's on November 23rd through November 25th. So in the report it says that they are seeking they want the school committee approval for attendance at the skills USA fall leadership conference which is coming up.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No, no. The, um, we have to vote on it. Uh, it's a weekend of November 23rd.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I think we need to take a, I don't think that's really, uh, I'm sure with the, uh, I'm sure with what the death of Ms. Riccio's, uh, mother, this may be. So maybe just to be on the safe side, if we, we, I don't think there's any controversy in it at all.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So if you look in our folder, on the left-hand side, it said Medford Vocational Technical High School, the school committee report. And I'm referring to the first paragraph. Yeah, Marie. So in the first paragraph, it says we are seeking approval to attend this overnight leadership experience. Motion to approve.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Second. Seconded.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So this is a real tough one because, to me, it suggests clearly a weakness. And I'm grateful that in this particular case, the weakness only resulted in a theft of some money and nothing more severe. I am very concerned from the report that I received to understand, and correct me if I'm wrong, but I have to lay it at your feet, Mr. Superintendent, that you were informed of this on Friday afternoon. You directed Principal Garino to file a report with the police. And it wasn't until Monday that someone looked at the videotape. Now, I understand it was Friday night, but I can't believe that someone didn't go in and arrange the proper people to look at the videotape so that on Monday morning, all of our principals would have been assessed of the problem. All of us, everybody would have been alerted. I understand that there was a concern of keeping the identity and the incident under wraps so that police could start. But wouldn't the police have wanted to see the video on Friday night as opposed to Monday morning? Could you please address that? Because I can't fathom it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, I can't, I mean, I for one say, you know, take the criticism, you drop the ball. And I truly believe that there was not a sense of urgency, it seems to me, on this incident. Again, I'm grateful that the incident stopped where it stopped, and it wasn't something more severe. I understand that we've had protocols in place, and I do understand the human error part of it with the people who allowed the individual to go about the building without being escorted down to the office, which is what our policy calls for. But the fact of the matter is that once there was a known incident, it needed and deserved immediate attention. need to be sent, wait until Monday morning to figure out that it was, in fact, someone from the outside. And I am deeply disappointed. I was reading this and sighing and groaning. And my husband said, you know, that's what the problem is. The problem is it always hurts the most when it's people you really respect. And I really respect you, but I really think you blew it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Susan Fairchild, 31 Hillcroft Park. I am a new commissioner on the Chevalier Commission and also a new board member of the Friends of the Chevalier in the past six, seven months. And I want to say that I too believe that this is an amazing asset for the city and we've been able to make a lot of changes in the past Six months or so, we have a whole new website. We have a lot of new things, shows that are coming in. We are trying to do the monthly entertainment. It is expensive. It is expensive to bring in shows that will bring in 900 people. And so, I fully would, certainly would support the seed money for the theater. The theater also has a lot of the physical wear and tear that we haven't really been able to keep up with as much probably as we should. And so in terms of being able to attract additional shows and additional rentals into the theater, then we definitely would need some money for the building maintenance and even a little bit more updating beyond the maintenance. So, I fully support, certainly, the concept, and thank you very much, and would be happy to provide any information that anyone's looking for, for, you know, the costs, what we have on our wish list, what we have on our budget, as well as sort of what we're trying to budget towards in terms of making some of the improvements. Okay? Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, first congratulations. Um, it was, and is always a lot of work, but we are so appreciative, um, for that work. And I think that as I read through this report, um, that the things that really struck me was when we got to that part about school culture. And that just made me feel so proud. That what, you know, when we say, you know, we have the best students and that we appreciate all of them and we celebrate their diversity and that they feel cared for. Those were just golden nuggets to hear that somebody else walking in who's never been to our school before so quickly picked it up. Because that's certainly what we as school committee members and I for all these years, that's what we want. And we are so appreciative. And it's great that notice, The collaboration now between the two schools have so much added to that. We want each of our students to be recognized for their individuality, celebrated for their diversity, felt that they are cared for and that there are people who care for them every day. And that's, as I was looking through this, and I know there's many recommendations and other things that we could talk about or whatever, but that's what came through so strongly and I really appreciate that.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'm wondering, this has not yet been announced to the students, correct?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I'm wondering, and maybe there's a few dollars that could go towards this, whether we could do something fun to celebrate it at the high school with all the teachers and administrators and the kids. I don't have anything off the top of my head, but it seems like this would be worthy to I would request that the superintendent be find some perhaps there's a few extra dollars here or there that might go for having some sort of recognition at the high school that everybody can share in.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Falco. I was also just wanted to mention that we're supposed to have a meeting of the public relations subcommittee. And I think that because this is a piece of it, this is a piece of that. We want to make sure that the whole community understands some of the things that have been said in here. I think we have a tentative date of May 14th. Is that true?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: No.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just also want to say, great job, and it's wonderful to hear part of the previous report when our students also are being recognized for being good athletes. And we're going to do our part, too, because we're going to make sure that your line item is not cut in any way, shape, or form because of this excellent donation. So we'll make sure that it is a plus, as it's meant to be.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So did you apply for this grant?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yes. Heidi, could you explain that a little bit more? You said we selected 30 students from each school, which is to say they were sent this information specifically?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So was it sent out to the entire student body?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Thank you for explaining that a little bit more. Sure. So 60 is the maximum number of students you expect to be able to take? For this year, yes.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And these courses, and I'm speaking specifically about one-grade graders, they will be taught by our current staff.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. And that was my same question with the evening offerings. Would you anticipate that that would be our staff, or are you thinking that it would be a staff that we hire specifically to run the evening program?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Now, it seems when I've been up at the vocational school in the evening, I see many cars. And so, I'm somewhat surprised that Gould has pulled out. Was that because of a lack of students or, well, can you give us any better understanding of that?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And it's at a greater distance so that us offering it here will have enough potential.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So first, Mr. Cormier, I have to say it's delightful to see you here again. Thank you. And we're very happy that you're back. In fact, now, if you take a day off, or two, there's no safe place, there's no hiding. And this gives us sort of a new perspective to, you know, they say, so teachers somehow know it's like they have eyes behind their head. And now you've got them all over. So a great project. Hunter, thank you for taking the initiative. And because I actually think, you know, I mean, if you think about it, we've talked about, you know, students being home and I've read some articles, but this is now when a teacher has to be out, what a great potential here. So thank you so much and it's great to see you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, Pat, what I'm understanding is that this is basically the federal government is moving this and saying we need to change our price. I have to tell you, when I got to this paper, I was shocked at $1 to $1.50. And so they don't, they don't, you know, they don't, you know, they don't, you know, They don't qualify. And that just seemed like a lot. So I was surprised at that. When I got to the second part, I thought, 310, what an odd number. Couldn't we just do $3? Do we really need to do that dime? I have to tell you, it is a long time, because I was thinking about it. It has been a long time. But it sure did. I laughed at where it was, because we had all this good news. And sometimes, you know, the superintendent mentioned something to us that's coming up or whatever. He didn't mention this thing at all. And so all of a sudden, we got to this paper, and she was like, whoa, shocker here, trying to slide it in, thinking we wouldn't notice. Well, we noticed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Is this going to improve lunch options at all?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mr. Falco, I think they're pretty strict about that now. You know, one day I had to take home a bowl, and I think that was like on Saturday. And by Monday I had a call saying, Paulette, remember to bring the bowl back. Which I did, of course. But I think they've got it down.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I have two questions. One, the document camera, I don't exactly understand what that is. Okay. It's a freestanding device that can be put on a table that hooks up to the computer.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Do many different companies make them?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The second just comment I wanted to make, and this is totally about my places right now, okay, but down in your goals, one of your goals is increase MCAS performance by three percentage points. I would be much more comfortable if you identified increase the geometry strand or pick out two or three different strands and say further students' knowledge of these particular stands rather than saying increase it overall by three points. And it is about my feeling about the testing and if we change, whatever. I just don't want people looking at our paperwork and saying, well, you know, we're driven by the test. I want to be driven by the subject.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I understand that this is a shorthand.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But unfortunately, it's an uncomfortable shorthand. That's the overall piece of it, sure. Thank you very much. Motion to approve.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: This is very good. Rachel, thanks for your report. There were so many interesting things that you touched upon. One of them, though, I just want to ask you, you mentioned making a 10-minute video that the kids could watch. Is it posted someplace? It is not, but I can get you a copy of it. I just was thinking that it could also be a nice introduction for other teachers at the elementary level and whatever, because I'm thinking so much that we're going to need to incorporate this somehow into our curriculum. ways to help kids relax and teachers relax, but I'm thinking about the anxiety that we talked about. So, yeah, if it's possible, I'd love to see it.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Following up on that is I thought that we should at least invite her to school. Thank you.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just want to comment, I mean, I sort of got lost in some of the handouts you gave us. They're great, very much like the PowerPoint that you'd mentioned. And reading the kids bring up very cute.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I definitely, it would be very, very nice to be able to provide that because clearly that's something that they enjoy. Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you Bernadette. How many students can be included in the middle school computer science camp?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just note, because it's free, that parents looking... Right, it's free.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But they do that for one week and then go to the camp. I'm just saying that because it's free, it definitely stands out. Anyway, thank you for providing us with all this information. You're welcome. Mrs. DiBenedetto.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I guess my concern was also just the change because I really kind of like the idea of being on the Tufts pool outside. I guess there's always pros and cons to everything. And also, you know, at the elementary school there was a playground and stuff like that. So it changes the nature, again, whether it's a positive or negative, I'm not quite sure.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, no, I just, I appreciate the conversation. That's exactly what I wanted to hear. Yeah, and.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's what the invitation says. May 7th, do you have it? No, May 8th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: That's what was in our packet the last time. So it was changed.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Well, no, no, Roy, that's what was in our packet when you gave it to us at our last school committee meeting. We each had a letter, and it said Thursday, May 8th. And the 11th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: May 7th. May 7th. Thursday. Thursday. 7th. 7th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So Roy, in terms of dates, you had the school council reports on the 11th.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Okay.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: We have a meeting.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But you changed it from the 11th, which was fine.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So, Mr. Belson, can I just clarify that there's no possibility to hold any meeting on Monday? It was that because you thought it was the National Honor Society?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Right. I'm just wondering if we could have this subcommittee at PR on Monday.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: On the 11th. The only reason I asked-
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: The only reason I'm asking is we had that date set aside and now, and I asked for that meeting months ago and now it would be thrown into a week where we already would have multiple meetings. It would make more sense if there is no other conflict to do it on Monday.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Robert Emmett Skerry, Jr.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Madam Mayor. I'd like to ask that a letter be sent out to Martinez Von Schor. Dr. Von Schor has been incredibly generous year after year supporting this, so please express our thanks from the Medford School Committee to him. And I'm thankful for the students who made a point of coming out tonight. Thank you very much, and we hope to see you again.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I just was, Mr. Superintendent, when we looked at the kindergarten list, the one that does jump out is that one is a full-time and one is a part-time, and they've got the same number of students. So maybe we could have a further explanation at the next time.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I wanted to mention that I've received quite a number of inquiries about this. People being disappointed that in fact that the school committee made the decision to have Park administered this year. And I think I just wanted to be clear because when I wrote back to the people and explain that, you know, to me this is a shell game. Mitchell Chester at the DOE was getting a lot of flack about PARC, and so very simply he said, oh, we won't do PARC, we'll do MCAS 2.0, but the questions are going to be very PARC-like. I feel as a school committee member, I made that vote because we would be doing our students a disfavor not to at least acclimate them to the questions. It's one of those things. It's parked by any other name. This name is now MCAS 2.0. So when I had the discussion one-on-one with people, I think that they understood where we were coming from, but it's frustrating to some level. I assume as usual that this letter will be sent out and it will be translated as necessary. Absolutely. Yeah. So, okay. Thanks very much. I'll take a motion to put this on file.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Mrs. Burke, I just wanted to mention before when the superintendent was saying he was going to be out, a couple of years ago, the school committee met at different schools. And I think that there's a lot of value to doing that. And we might do it, you know, maybe over the course of this year, but do it as a plan, not every meeting, because the disadvantage is that then our it's more difficult to televise the meetings and have them on live and whatever. So, but if we could talk about that and think about that in the coming year of how we might get around to the different schools as well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Thank you. I have three questions for you. The first thing you mentioned was the testing, the SCI training. And I wanted to ask about if you said we still had 100 teachers who needed that training. What happens if they don't get that training, and by when do they have to have it?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: And are we looking for, do we think we're going to get to 100% of our teachers?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So I guess I would just encourage all of our teachers, because I would see value for our other teachers to have this training as well.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK, so that's how we covered the other.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Second question is, there were a lot of newcomers at the Roberts, all together listed now at 58. So are some of those students then shifted over to the Brooks and Columbus? Are they moved? No, because they don't have newcomers programs. No, I'm saying after they... Oh, definitely, yes. When they are ready to be transitioned, yes. So wouldn't it be... So what we're doing is we're asking a student who is new to Medford and non-English speaking to perhaps be in grade one and two at the Roberts and then go over to the Columbus or Brooks. To me, you're taking them out of a comfort area with people who know them, with their friends. And to this population, who might be more vulnerable than many of our other, you're asking to do them an adjustment that other parents certainly wouldn't want their children to do. Since we have so many newcomers, why are we exploring the idea that perhaps we ought to have a newcomers program at another school so that we're not pulling them out?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: I remember the conversation from before, but now as the numbers increase, part of me just says that it's never been particularly comfortable that you're going to ask those kids to uproot, which is what you're doing.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: As the program goes, I think it just needs to be always an ongoing question of, are we doing the best thing for these students? My third question is, Does the staff feel that the access test is accurate? Do teachers agree with the placements, like when they come back and they get the results? Because we talk about testing, and we've got concerns about other tests. Here's a really interesting sort of testing. Are your teachers, do they think the test accurately reflects where the student is?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: But it works that way rather than the other way where students are promoted too soon.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: OK. Yeah. All right. Thank you very much, Lisa.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Ms. Vander Kloof.
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Kathy, is the security guard trained at the high school trained in this as well?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: Yeah, I just wondered what other groups of staff in particular came to mind?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: How about vice principals at the elementary schools?
[Paulette Van der Kloot]: So we better send her home.