School Committee

LOWELL SCHOOL COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING AGENDA Date: 2016-05-04 Time: 6:30 PM Location: City Council Chamber 375 Merrimack Street, 2nd Floor, Lowell, MA SALUTE TO FLAG: 1. SALUTE TO FLAG: ROLL CALL: 2. ROLL CALL: SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS: 3. 2016 / 181 Spotlight on Excellence: AFJROTC Drill Team MINUTES: 4. 2016 / 166 Approval of the Minutes of the Regularly Scheduled School Committee Meeting of Wednesday, April 6, 2016 5. 2016 / 171 Approval of the Minutes of the FY2017 Budget Hearing of Monday, April 25, 2016. PERMISSION TO ENTER: 6. 2016 / 176 Permission to Enter: May 4, 2016 Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • P: 978.674.4324 • F: 978.937.7609 http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 2 of 5) MEMORIALS: 7. 2016 / 161 Phyllis A Durkin, mother to Gerald Durkin, Jr, former City Councilor and School Committeeman, mother-in- law to Jeannine Durkin, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, mother to Deborah Francoeur, teacher at Lowell Adult Education, mother-in- law to Paul Francoeur, teacher at Lowell High School, and grandmother to Paul Francoeur, Jr, teacher at Lowell High School. 8. 2016 / 162 Rodger F. Martin Jr., brother of Lowell High School Headmaster Brian Martin. 9. 2016 / 163 Chester "Chet" L. Somers, Retired Assistant Superintendent for Lowell Public Schools. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: 10. 2016 / 175 Stephanie Sodre, to speak on Motion # 2016/172 11. 2016 / 188 Paul Georges, to speak on Motion # 2016/186 MOTIONS: 12. 2016 / 160 [by Jacqueline Doherty]: Request the Superintendent provide the committee with a report on the civics curriculum within the district including when and how it is addressed through which grade levels and what programs are in place to make sure our students learn the importance being engaged citizens in a democracy. Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • P: 978.674.4324 • F: 978.937.7609 http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 3 of 5) 13. 2016 / 180 [by Jacqueline Doherty]: Request the Superintendent develop a plan to create our own pipeline of diverse educators by building on partnerships and programs already in place with MCC and UML, and expanding them in the following ways: a. Strengthen the current LPS-MCC paraprofessional-education program by promoting the educational benefit we offer to our paras as well as recruiting MCC students to apply for work in our schools. b. Partner with high school guidance to identify LHS graduates interested in education and encourage them to apply for paraprofessional positions in our schools as a way to earn and learn. As Lowell paras, they will be eligible to participate in the MCC program and receive tuition benefits towards an associate’s degree. c. Extend the collaboration between LPS, MCC and UML to create a bridge for our paras to earn a bachelor’s degree, thereby taking advantage of the new Commonwealth Commitment Program that offers financial incentives to students who attend Mass. state schools to earn a bachelor’s degree, making them eligible to receive teaching licensure. 14. 2016 / 185 [by Robert Hoey]: Request the Superintendent to adopt a policy for interviewing applicants which mandates that Lowell residents receive interviews for jobs in the Lowell Public Schools. 15. 2016 / 186 [by Robert Hoey]: Motion to request the Mayor to enter into negotiations for a three-year contract with the Superintendent to replace and extend the current Memorandum of Understanding between the Lowell School Committee and the Superintendent, starting July 1, 2016. 16. 2016 / 187 [by Connie Martin]: Requesting that the Administration report to the Personnel Subcommittee on the evaluations of LPS Principals and update the subcommittee on the status of the continuing implementation of the Massachusetts Teacher Evaluation protocol. SUBCOMMITTEES: 17. 2016 / 167 Facilities: Approval of the Minutes of the Meeting of Thursday, March 31, 2016 [Steve Gendron, Chairperson] Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • P: 978.674.4324 • F: 978.937.7609 http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 4 of 5) REPORTS OF THE SUPERINTENDENT: 18. 2016 / 172 Policy for the Admission of Children of Non-Resident School Employees 19. 2016 / 178 Response to Steve Gendron's Motion of 07/15/15 regarding the Lincoln School - Mill City Grows Community Garden 20. 2016 / 182 Community Service Day Update 21. 2016 / 183 STEM Update 22. 2016 / 174 Personnel Report NEW BUSINESS: 23. 2016 / 136 District School Choice 24. 2016 / 184 Permission to Post: Coordinator of Early Childhood Education CONVENTION/CONFERENCE REQUESTS: 25. 2016 / 164 Overnight Field Trip Request: Lt. Col Peter D’Amico, MSgt Kevin Casilli, MSgt Susan Antolini and TSgt David Smith, with approximately eighty [80] cadet students to attend the MA-771's Annual Cadet Leadership Course in Reading, Massachusetts from Monday, June 20th through Friday, June 24, 2016. The cost of the trip is approximately $11,000 and will be funded using a combination of AFJROTC funds and/or student contribution. One substitute teachers is needed at a cost of $100 to be paid by the LHS Professional Development account. Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • P: 978.674.4324 • F: 978.937.7609 http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 5 of 5) 26. 2016 / 165 Request permission for the four grade McAvinnue students, along with Principal Ana Vasconcelos, Assistant Principal Michael Domina, Teachers; Kathryn Larry, Eileen Grenham, Tom Pelletier, Cindy Fosse, Julie Gillis, Laura Lamarre-Anderson, Kim Vespo, Rebecca Evans and CORI'd chaperones to participate in an overnight field trip to the Museum of Science in Boston on Friday, June 3rd through Saturday, June 4, 2015. The trip will be paid by students and staff. The transportation cost will pay through the McAvinnue School Student Activity account. There are no costs to the School Department budget. No substitute teacher is needed. PROFESSIONAL PERSONNEL: 27. 2016 / 177 The Members of the United Teachers of Lowell hereby donate twenty five [25] sick leave days to Eileen Horan, Butler School Teacher. Also, the Members of the United Teachers of Lowell hereby donate thirteen (13) sick leave days to Doug Donovan, Lowell High School Custodian, contingent upon a medical consultation or examination by the City Physician. EXECUTIVE SESSION: 28. 2016 / 179 Executive Session: • Consideration of contract extensions and language for Assistant Superintendents; Jeannine Durkin & Claire M. Abrams • Review of Bargaining Proposals – SEIU • Discuss Complaints or Charges Brought Against a Public Official or Individual ADJOURNMENT: 29. ADJOURNMENT: Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • P: 978.674.4324 • F: 978.937.7609 http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  LOWELL SCHOOL COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING AGENDA Date: 2016-05-04 Time: 6:30 PM Location: City Council Chamber 375 Merrimack Street, 2nd Floor, Lowell, MA SALUTE TO FLAG: 1. SALUTE TO FLAG: ROLL CALL: 2. ROLL CALL: SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS: 3. 2016 / 181 Spotlight on Excellence: AFJROTC Drill Team MINUTES: 4. 2016 / 166 Approval of the Minutes of the Regularly Scheduled School Committee Meeting of Wednesday, April 6, 2016 5. 2016 / 171 Approval of the Minutes of the FY2017 Budget Hearing of Monday, April 25, 2016. PERMISSION TO ENTER: 6. 2016 / 176 Permission to Enter: May 4, 2016 Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 2 of 6) MEMORIALS: 7. 2016 / 161 Phyllis A Durkin, mother to Gerald Durkin, Jr, former City Councilor and School Committeeman, mother-in- law to Jeannine Durkin, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, mother to Deborah Francoeur, teacher at Lowell Adult Education, mother-in- law to Paul Francoeur, teacher at Lowell High School, and grandmother to Paul Francoeur, Jr, teacher at Lowell High School. 8. 2016 / 162 Rodger F. Martin Jr., brother of Lowell High School Headmaster Brian Martin. 9. 2016 / 163 Chester "Chet" L. Somers, Retired Assistant Superintendent for Lowell Public Schools. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: 10. 2016 / 175 Stephanie Sodre, to speak on Motion # 2016/172 11. 2016 / 188 Paul Georges, to speak on Motion # 2016/186 MOTIONS: 12. 2016 / 160 [by Jacqueline Doherty]: Request the Superintendent provide the committee with a report on the civics curriculum within the district including when and how it is addressed through which grade levels and what programs are in place to make sure our students learn the importance being engaged citizens in a democracy. Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 3 of 6) 13. 2016 / 180 [by Jacqueline Doherty]: Request the Superintendent develop a plan to create our own pipeline of diverse educators by building on partnerships and programs already in place with MCC and UML, and expanding them in the following ways: a. Strengthen the current LPS-MCC paraprofessional-education program by promoting the educational benefit we offer to our paras as well as recruiting MCC students to apply for work in our schools. b. Partner with high school guidance to identify LHS graduates interested in education and encourage them to apply for paraprofessional positions in our schools as a way to earn and learn. As Lowell paras, they will be eligible to participate in the MCC program and receive tuition benefits towards an associate’s degree. c. Extend the collaboration between LPS, MCC and UML to create a bridge for our paras to earn a bachelor’s degree, thereby taking advantage of the new Commonwealth Commitment Program that offers financial incentives to students who attend Mass. state schools to earn a bachelor’s degree, making them eligible to receive teaching licensure. 14. 2016 / 185 [by Robert Hoey]: Request the Superintendent to adopt a policy for interviewing applicants which mandates that Lowell residents receive interviews for jobs in the Lowell Public Schools. 15. 2016 / 186 [by Robert Hoey]: Motion to request the Mayor to enter into negotiations for a three-year contract with the Superintendent to replace and extend the current Memorandum of Understanding between the Lowell School Committee and the Superintendent, starting July 1, 2016. 16. 2016 / 187 [by Connie Martin]: Requesting that the Administration report to the Personnel Subcommittee on the evaluations of LPS Principals and update the subcommittee on the status of the continuing implementation of the Massachusetts Teacher Evaluation protocol. SUBCOMMITTEES: Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 4 of 6) 17. 2016 / 167 Facilities: Approval of the Minutes of the Meeting of Thursday, March 31, 2016 [Steve Gendron, Chairperson] REPORTS OF THE SUPERINTENDENT: 18. 2016 / 172 Policy for the Admission of Children of Non-Resident School Employees 19. 2016 / 178 Response to Steve Gendron's Motion of 07/15/15 regarding the Lincoln School - Mill City Grows Community Garden 20. 2016 / 182 Community Service Day Update 21. 2016 / 183 STEM Update 22. 2016 / 174 Personnel Report NEW BUSINESS: 23. 2016 / 136 District School Choice 24. 2016 / 184 Permission to Post: Coordinator of Early Childhood Education CONVENTION/CONFERENCE REQUESTS: Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 5 of 6) 25. 2016 / 164 Overnight Field Trip Request: Lt. Col Peter D’Amico, MSgt Kevin Casilli, MSgt Susan Antolini and TSgt David Smith, with approximately eighty [80] cadet students to attend the MA-771's Annual Cadet Leadership Course in Reading, Massachusetts from Monday, June 20th through Friday, June 24, 2016. The cost of the trip is approximately $11,000 and will be funded using a combination of AFJROTC funds and/or student contribution. One substitute teachers is needed at a cost of $100 to be paid by the LHS Professional Development account. 26. 2016 / 165 Request permission for the four grade McAvinnue students, along with Principal Ana Vasconcelos, Assistant Principal Michael Domina, Teachers; Kathryn Larry, Eileen Grenham, Tom Pelletier, Cindy Fosse, Julie Gillis, Laura Lamarre-Anderson, Kim Vespo, Rebecca Evans and CORI'd chaperones to participate in an overnight field trip to the Museum of Science in Boston on Friday, June 3rd through Saturday, June 4, 2015. The trip will be paid by students and staff. The transportation cost will pay through the McAvinnue School Student Activity account. There are no costs to the School Department budget. No substitute teacher is needed. PROFESSIONAL PERSONNEL: 27. 2016 / 177 The Members of the United Teachers of Lowell hereby donate twenty five [25] sick leave days to Eileen Horan, Butler School Teacher. Also, the Members of the United Teachers of Lowell hereby donate thirteen (13) sick leave days to Doug Donovan, Lowell High School Custodian, contingent upon a medical consultation or examination by the City Physician. EXECUTIVE SESSION: 28. 2016 / 179 Executive Session: • Consideration of contract extensions and language for Assistant Superintendents; Jeannine Durkin & Claire M. Abrams • Review of Bargaining Proposals – SEIU • Discuss Complaints or Charges Brought Against a Public Official or Individual Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 6 of 6) ADJOURNMENT: 29. ADJOURNMENT: Lowell Public Schools • 43 Highland Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Spotlight on Excellence: AFJROTC Drill Team To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 181 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  LOWELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment Phone: (978) 674-4323 155 Merrimack Street E-mail: cabrams@lowell.k12.ma.us Lowell, Massachusetts 01852 Spotlight on Excellence TO: Dr Salah Khelfaoui, Superintendent of Schools FROM: Claire Abrams, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction DATE: April 28, 2016 RE: Spotlight on Excellence AFJROTC Drill Team The Spotlight on Excellence presentation on Wednesday, May 4th will feature the Lowell High School AFJROTC Drill Team. Lowell High Drill Tea ri gs a k the Hardware fro Dayto , Ohio! This year, the Lowell High School AFJROTC Drill Team comprised of 43 students in grades 9- 12, competed at the U.S. Air Force National Drill Competition, Mid-Valley Championships in Dayton, Ohio on March 19, 2016. The competition consisted of 27 high schools from 11 states across the county. The Lowell High School AFJROTC Drill team proudly represented Lowell High School and the City of Lowell. Both the Armed and Unarmed Teams earned overall 2nd Place Trophies in tough competition in their respective divisions! The following is the list of their trophies and Awards: Armed Team 2nd Place Overall Trophy 1st Place, Armed Regulation, commanded by Cadet Andrew Schuster 1st Place, Armed Exhibition, commanded by Cadet Tatiana Maldonado 3rd Place, Armed Inspection, commanded by Cadet Justis Peace 2nd Place, Armed Dual Exhibition, Cadet Andrew Schuster and Cadet Deandre Morales 2nd Place, Armed Solo Exhibition, Cadet Andrew Schuster 3rd Place, Armed Solo Exhibition, Cadet Deandre Morales Unarmed Team 2nd Place Overall Trophy 2nd Place, Unarmed Color Guard, commanded by Cadet Sokhalita Mam 2nd Place, Unarmed Exhibition, commanded by Cadet Sokhalita Mam 2nd Place, Unarmed Regulation, commanded by Brianna Croteau 2nd Unarmed Dual Exhibition, Cadet Alexis Morales and Cadet Kiarha Roper Additionally, several students received individual medals and awards including: Andrew Schuster - 2nd Place Armed Commander's Trophy Brianna Croteau - 2nd Place Unarmed Commander's Trophy Andrew Lorreny Marrero - 2nd Place, Armed Individual Drill Regulation Competition (First overall AFJROTC cadet) The LHS AFJROTC program was evaluated by Headquarters, AFJROTC personnel. The unit received the highest rating possible and impressed inspectors in all areas. The following individuals earned Outstanding Performer Awards for their efforts: 1 - Sokhalita Mam 2 - Brianna Croteau 3 - Alex Poirier 4 - Deandre Morales 5 - Eileena Silva 6 - Reybekah Plaisir 7 - Kyle Sopel As always, the Lowell High School AFJROTC students represented AFJROTC, Lowell High School and Lowell with pride, integrity and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the competition and everywhere we went - they should be commended for their professionalism. Great Job LHS Red Raider Drill team!!! I would like to thank Lt. Col. Peter D’Amico for his assistance with this report. Spotlight on Excellence AFJROTC Drill Team 2  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Approval of the Minutes of the Regularly Scheduled School Committee Meeting of Wednesday, April 6, 2016 To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 166 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Approval of the Minutes of the FY2017 Budget Hearing of Monday, April 25, 2016. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 171 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Permission to Enter: May 4, 2016 To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 176 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Office of Finance and Operations Phone: (978) 674-2019 LOWELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 155 Merrimack Street Fax: (978) 937-7620 Lowell, MA 01852 E-mail:gfrisch@lowell.k12.ma.us PERMISSION TO ENTER To: Dr. Salah E. Khelfaoui, Superintendent of Schools From: Gary N. Frisch, School Business Administrator Date: April 29, 2016 Subject: Permission to Enter – May 4, 2016 School Committee Meeting EDUCATION, INC. $ 4,943 2 Main Street, Suite 2A Plymouth, MA 02360 To amend the existing contract to provide academic support and tutoring services to special education students who are hospitalized. Funding provided by the School Department Budget – Special Education Hospitalized Children Account LIGHTHOUSE SCHOOL, INC. $ 30,000 25 Wellman Avenue No. Chelmsford, MA 01863 To amend the existing contract to provide for the out-of-district additional costs for ten (10) students plus two (2) additional students enrolled and receiving services as outlined in their special education IEP. Funding provided by the School Department Budget – Special Education Tuition Account HMEA $ 14,590 8 Forge Park East Franklin, MA 02038 To amend the existing contract to provide a behavioral therapist and clinical consultation for two (2) additions students as outlined in their special education IEP. Funding provided by the School Department Budget – Special Education Home Parent Ed Program MOUNT PROSPECT ACADEMY, INC. $ 25,000 350 Main Street Plymouth, NH 03264 To amend the existing contract to provide for the out-of-district additional costs for one (1) student enrolled and receiving services as outlined in their special education IEP. Funding provided by the School Department Budget– Special Education Tuition Account THE WHITNEY ACADEMY, INC. $ 30,000 PO Box 619, 10 Middleboro Road East Freetown, MA 02717 To provide for the out-of-district tuition cost for one (1) student enrolled and receiving services as outlined in their special education IEP. Funding provided by the School Department Budget – Special Education Tuition Account 2  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Phyllis A Durkin, mother to Gerald Durkin, Jr, former City Councilor and School Committeeman, mother-in-law to Jeannine Durkin, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, mother to Deborah Francoeur, teacher at Lowell Adult Education, mother-in-law to Paul Francoeur, teacher at Lowell High School, and grandmother to Paul Francoeur, Jr, teacher at Lowell High School. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 161 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Rodger F. Martin Jr., brother of Lowell High School Headmaster Brian Martin. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 162 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Chester "Chet" L. Somers, Retired Assistant Superintendent for Lowell Public Schools. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 163 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Stephanie Sodre, to speak on Motion # 2016/172 To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 175 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Paul Georges, to speak on Motion # 2016/186 To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 188 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 [by Jacqueline Doherty]: Request the Superintendent provide the committee with a report on the civics curriculum within the district including when and how it is addressed through which grade levels and what programs are in place to make sure our students learn the importance being engaged citizens in a democracy. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 160 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 [by Jacqueline Doherty]: Request the Superintendent develop a plan to create our own pipeline of diverse educators by building on partnerships and programs already in place with MCC and UML, and expanding them in the following ways: a. Strengthen the current LPS-MCC paraprofessional-education program by promoting the educational benefit we offer to our paras as well as recruiting MCC students to apply for work in our schools. b. Partner with high school guidance to identify LHS graduates interested in education and encourage them to apply for paraprofessional positions in our schools as a way to earn and learn. As Lowell paras, they will be eligible to participate in the MCC program and receive tuition benefits towards an associate’s degree. c. Extend the collaboration between LPS, MCC and UML to create a bridge for our paras to earn a bachelor’s degree, thereby taking advantage of the new Commonwealth Commitment Program that offers financial incentives to students who attend Mass. state schools to earn a bachelor’s degree, making them eligible to receive teaching licensure. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 180 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 [by Robert Hoey]: Request the Superintendent to adopt a policy for interviewing applicants which mandates that Lowell residents receive interviews for jobs in the Lowell Public Schools. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 185 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Management Information Systems LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS Department Phone: (978) 674-4320 43 Highland Stree t Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 [by Robert Hoey]: Motion to request the Mayor to enter into negotiations for a three-year contract with the Superintendent to replace and extend the current Memorandum of Understanding between the Lowell School Committee and the Superintendent, starting July 1, 2016. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Management Information Systems Department Agenda Item: 2016 / 186 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 [by Connie Martin]: Requesting that the Administration report to the Personnel Subcommittee on the evaluations of LPS Principals and update the subcommittee on the status of the continuing implementation of the Massachusetts Teacher Evaluation protocol. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 187 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Facilities: Approval of the Minutes of the Meeting of Thursday, March 31, 2016 [Steve Gendron, Chairperson] To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 167 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Policy for the Admission of Children of Non-Resident School Employees To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 172 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Response to Steve Gendron’s Motion of 07/15/15 regarding the Lincoln School - Mill City Grows Community Garden To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 178 Recommendation: Background: Attachments: Mill City Community Garden-Lincoln School  Office of Finance & Operations Phone: (978) 674-2019 LOWELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 155 Merrimack Street Fax: (978) 937-7620 Lowell, Massachusetts 08152 E-mail: fantonelli@lowell.k12.ma.us Lincoln School Garden To: Dr. Salah E. Khelfaoui, Superintendent of Schools From: Gary N. Frisch, School Business Administrator Date: April 26, 2016 The following is a report on the motion (below): Motion: Request the Superintendent to determine the status of the lot behind the Lincoln School playground and pursue options to use it as a Mill City Grows Community Garden. Report: The City reviewed and approved the School Departments request to use the parcel of land at 47 Lincoln Street as part of the Lincoln School Learning Garden. The Lincoln School has been given permission slips needed for any students or parent, adult who will be working in the garden.  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Community Service Day Update To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 182 Recommendation: Background: Attachments: Community Service Day Update LOWELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment Phone: (978) 674-4323 155 Merrimack Street Fax: (978) 674-2146 Lowell, Massachusetts 01852 E-mail: cabrams@lowell.k12.ma.us Community Service Day Update TO: Dr. Salah E. Khelfaoui, Superintendent FROM: M. Claire Abrams, Assistant Superintendent DATE: April 28, 2016 The following is an update on the activities planned for Community Service Day on May 31, 2016. As has been in the past, our schools are involved in many community service activities throughout the year. Several of our schools already have planned activities through the spring, such as beautification of school grounds as well as many other opportunities that include donations to hospitals and working and donating time at food shelters. The Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Office is currently collecting data from all schools to present on May 31, 2016. A full day of activities is planned for May 31, 2016. At this point, the following activities are planned:  Elementary School children will once again decorate grocery bags with a community service theme. The students will return the bags to the markets for display and also to be used by consumers.  Middle Schools are currently in the process of building more gardens for the community in their area. This year we will visit the Sullivan and Pyne/Arts Schools as they begin the process of building a new garden.  We will be inviting members from the American Training Program for disabled adults to join us at one of the above-mentioned schools. Volunteers from the program will be taking care of gardens over the course of the summer. This will ensure that all gardens are watered and maintained so they will flourish during the summer months.  Lowell High School is involved in continuous Community Service Learning through the 21st Century after school programming. Plans are still shaping up, however; students from the Freshman Academy will take part in the Community Service Day activity. A meeting is planned next week to firm up this portion of the day. I would like to thank Martha Cohn, Jill Lang and Carolyn Rocheleau for their assistance with this report.  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 STEM Update To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 183 Recommendation: Background: Attachments: STEM Update LOWELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment Phone: (978) 674-4323 155 Merrimack Street Fax: (978) 275-6363 Lowell, Massachusetts 01852 E-mail: cabrams@lowell.k12.ma.us STEM Update TO: Dr. Salah E. Khelfaoui, Superintendent FROM: M. Claire Abrams, Assistant Superintendent DATE: April 28, 2016 The Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum will give a brief update of STEM initiatives in the district.  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Personnel Report To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 174 Recommendation: Background: Attachments: Personnel Report LOWELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS Personnel Office Phone: (978) 674-2021 155 Merrimack Street Fax: (978) 674-2141 Lowell, Massachusetts 01852 E-mail: mcassidy@lowell.k12.ma.us Personnel Report TO: Dr. Salah Khelfaoui, Superintendent of Schools FROM: Michael Cassidy, Director of Human Resources DATE: April 26, 2016 RE: Personnel Report – May 4, 2016 The Personnel Office is hereby officially informing you of retirements, resignations, promotions and new hires. Thank you for sharing this report with members of the Lowell School Committee and including it in the official record. MC/dj I. RETIREMENTS Christine Ahearn (30 yrs) English Language Learner 110 Park Ave West Lincoln Elementary School Lowell, MA 01852 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Elaine Balas (15 yrs) Mathematics Teacher 125 Glenwood Ave Lowell High School Lowell, MA 01852 Effective Date: October 3, 2016 Gail Bonin (20 yrs) Library Aide 58 South Walker Street Butler Middle School Lowell, MA 01851 Effective Date: April 30, 2016 Karen Briere (28 yrs) Clerk 40 Llewellyn Street Lowell High School Lowell, MA 01850 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Edward Burns (18 yrs) English Language Arts/Social Studies Teacher 31 Jordan Road Robinson Middle School Windham, NH 03087 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Patricia Colgan (24 yrs) Art Teacher 42 Westland Ave Wang Middle School Chelmsford, MA 01824 Effective Date: July 22, 2016 Virginia Corcoran (18 yrs) Music Teacher 261 Broadway Unit 24 Moody School Dracut, MA 01826 Effective Date: October 7, 2016 Mary Jane Corry (30 yrs) Art Teacher 250 Beacon Street Stoklosa Middle School Andover, MA 01810 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Elizabeth Higgins (16 yrs) Instructional Specialist 11 Chelmsford Street Daley Middle School Seabrook, NH 03874 Effective Date: November 20, 2016 Herbert Hendrix (29 yrs) Custodian 9 Roberts Street Bailey Elementary School Lowell, MA 01854 Effective Date: January 31, 2016 Mary Jacques (33 yrs) Culinary Arts Teacher 18 Locked Mill Drive Lowell High School Litchfield, NH 03052 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Billy Johnston (11 yrs) Biology Teacher 216 Nesmith St. Apt. 5 Lowell High School Lowell, MA 01852 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 RETIREMENTS (continued) Robert Lefebvre (31 yrs) Custodian 887 Varnum Ave Wang Middle School Lowell, MA 01854 Effective Date: January 8, 2016 Diane Lewin-Allen (33 yrs) Culinary Arts Teacher 111 Hollis Street Lowell High School Lowell, MA 01852 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Beyla Makovsky (30.5 yrs) Speech/Language Teacher 48 Locust Road Murkland Elementary School Chelmsford, MA 01824 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Joann Martin (10 yrs) Assistant Administrator-Special Education 175 Amesbury Street Special Education Department Dracut, MA 01826 Effective Date: July 30, 2016 Edith Martin (22 yrs) Music Teacher 9 Vincent Road Morey Elementary School Chelmsford, MA 01824 Effective Date: October 14, 2016 Susan McPhillips (27 yrs) Elementary Teacher 105 Hayes Ave McAvinnue Elementary School Lowell, MA 01854 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Deborah Mellus (18 yrs) Foreign Language Teacher 10 Gail Ave Lowell High School Tyngsboro, MA 01879 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Jolane Muldoon (10 yrs) Mathematics Teacher 9 Edgewood Road Daley Middle School Windham, NH 03087 Effective Date: March 11, 2016 Terry O’Neil (17 yrs) District Support Specialist 105 Carlton Road Early Childhood Department Tewksbury, MA 01846 Effective Date: February 29, 2016 Maribeth O’Neil (30 yrs) English Teacher 1 Windward Point Lowell High School Gloucester, MA 01930 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Roland Santos (11 yrs) Custodian 26 Newell Street Washington Elementary School Lowell, MA 01851 Effective Date: February 29, 2016 Sombay Sayasane (29 yrs) Clerk 132 Grove Street Family Resource Center Lowell, MA 01851 Effective Date: May 6, 2016  RETIREMENTS (continued) Bertha Vargas (30 yrs) Elementary Teacher 107 Glezen Road Reilly Elementary School Wayland, MA 01778 Effective Date: February 5, 2016 Ana Vasconcelos (35 yrs) Principal 8 Ridgemont Road McAvinnue Elementary School Windham, NH 03087 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Joanne Waugh (19 yrs) Social Studies Teacher 80 D Street Butler Middle School Lowell, MA 01851 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Donna Wholey-Thiverge (31 yrs) Math/Science Teacher 1505 Bridge Street Stoklosa Middle School Dracut, MA 01826 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 II. RESIGNATIONS Katelyn Burgess-McIntosh Paraprofessional 25 Andrews Street McAuliffe Elementary School Lowell, MA 01852 Effective Date: May 6, 2016 Holly Capone Paraprofessional 26 Putnam Ave Daley Middle School Lowell, MA 01851 Effective Date: April 8, 2016 Brian Curley Director of Operations 21 Montaup Ave Business Office Dracut, MA 01826 Effective Date: April 8, 2016 Kelley Donoghue Mathematics Teacher 60 Paulies Place Lowell High School Tewksbury, MA 01876 Effective Date: January 19, 2016 Jill Hammel Elementary Teacher 45 Archibald Ave McAvinnue Elementary School Methuen, MA 01844 Effective Date: March 2, 2016 Joanna Johnson-Collins Grants Manager 103 Reservation Road Business Office Andover, MA 01810 Effective Date: February 26, 2016 Melissa Kelley-Kisiel Kindergarten Teacher 98 Wyman Road Greenhalge Elementary School Billerica, MA 01821 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 RESIGNATIONS (continued)  Michelle Rooney Clerk 219 Summer Street Special Education Department Somerville, MA 02144 Effective Date: April 20, 2016 Nicholas Ryan Paraprofessional 71 Malden Ave Shaughnessy School Lowell, MA 01854 Effective Date: February 15, 2016 Danielle Sherman Science Teacher 849 Boston Post Road East Robinson Middle School Marlborough, MA 01752 Effective Date: June 30, 2016 Philip Unger Paraprofessional 54 Hillside Ave Greenhalge Elementary School Derry, NH 03038 Effective Date: February 19, 2016 III. NEW HIRES AND PROMOTIONS (P=PROMOTION) Gary Frisch School Business Administrator 1072 Spring Street Business Office Yorkville, Illinois 60560 Effective Date: February 16, 2 016 IV. TEACHERS HIRED FROM THE LIST OF ELIGIBLE TEACHERS None to report  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 District School Choice To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 136 Recommendation: Background: Attachments:  School Choice To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Salah E. Khelfaoui, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools Date: April 29, 2016 Re: School Choice Participation Vote for School Year 2016-2017 Please be advised that as required under the State School Choice Law each School Committee must annually review and discuss inter-district school choice and hold a public hearing. Consequently, we are requesting a public hearing to be held at the beginning of the regularly scheduled School Committee meeting of May 18, 2016 @ 6:30 pm in City Hall, Council Chambers. I am recommending that the Lowell Public Schools participate in the inter-district school choice program for grades 9-12, for the 2016-2017 school year. I am recommending to allot, but not to exceed, 30 seats within grades 9-12. The rationale for this is the availability of space at Lowell High School for grades 9-12. We do not anticipate any negative impact on the current programming, Lowell High School facilities, or class size. The state statute requires a School Committee vote only if the district is choosing to opt-out of the inter-district school choice program. If the School Committee in fact does choose to opt- out, a motion would need to be made to vote on that decision. The statute also requires that we identify the number of seats available and the grade levels in which we intend to provide the seats. SEK/mp xc: Michael Geary, City Clerk School Choice Participation Meeting of May 4, 2016 1-1  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Permission to Post: Coordinator of Early Childhood Education To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 184 Recommendation: Background: Attachments: Permission to Post: Coordinator of Early Childhood Education  LOWELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS Office of Personnel and Recruitment Henry J. Mroz Central Administration Offices 155 Merrimack Street, Lowell, MA 01852 Phone: 978 674 2021 Michael Cassidy Fax: 978 674 2143 Director of Human Resources Email: mcassidy@lowell.k12.ma.us Memorandum To: Dr. Salah Khelfaoui, Superintendent of Schools From: Michael Cassidy, Director of Human Resources Date: April 29, 2016 Re: Permission to Post Attached please find a job posting for the following position: Coordinator of Early Childhood Education Due to a recent retirement of the Early Childhood District Support Specialist, it was determined that this position should be updated to accurately define the scope of duties need to meet the evolving needs of the district. This position will continue to focus on the critical needs of our early learners and will continue to report to the Assistant Superintendent of Student Support Services. This position will serve in a year round capacity to support the full year program. The job description was updated in coordination with the Early Childhood Department and was presented to the president and vice president of the Lowell School Administrators Association. This position is grant funded. I recommend the school committee approve this revised job posting at the regular meeting of May 04, 2016. Thank you for your support and consideration.  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Overnight Field Trip Request: Lt. Col Peter D’Amico, MSgt Kevin Casilli, MSgt Susan Antolini and TSgt David Smith, with approximately eighty [80] cadet students to attend the MA-771's Annual Cadet Leadership Course in Reading, Massachusetts from Monday, June 20th through Friday, June 24, 2016. The cost of the trip is approximately $11,000 and will be funded using a combination of AFJROTC funds and/or student contribution. One substitute teachers is needed at a cost of $100 to be paid by the LHS Professional Development account. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 164 Recommendation: Background: Attachments: LHS Annual Cadet Leadership  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Request permission for the four grade McAvinnue students, along with Principal Ana Vasconcelos, Assistant Principal Michael Domina, Teachers; Kathryn Larry, Eileen Grenham, Tom Pelletier, Cindy Fosse, Julie Gillis, Laura Lamarre-Anderson, Kim Vespo, Rebecca Evans and CORI'd chaperones to participate in an overnight field trip to the Museum of Science in Boston on Friday, June 3rd through Saturday, June 4, 2015. The trip will be paid by students and staff. The transportation cost will pay through the McAvinnue School Student Activity account. There are no costs to the School Department budget. No substitute teacher is needed. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 165 Recommendation: Background: Attachments: Field Trip to the Museum of Science in Boston  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 The Members of the United Teachers of Lowell hereby donate twenty five [25] sick leave days to Eileen Horan, Butler School Teacher. Also, the Members of the United Teachers of Lowell hereby donate thirteen (13) sick leave days to Doug Donovan, Lowell High School Custodian, contingent upon a medical consultation or examination by the City Physician. To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 177 Recommendation: Background: Attachments: UTL Sick Leave  Lowe ll Public Schools LOW ELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 43 Highland Stree t Phone: (978) 674-4320 Lowe ll, Massachuse tts 08152 Executive Session: • Consideration of contract extensions and language for Assistant Superintendents; Jeannine Durkin & Claire M. Abrams • Review of Bargaining Proposals – SEIU • Discuss Complaints or Charges Brought Against a Public Official or Individual To: Members of the Lowell School Committee From: Lowell Public Schools Agenda Item: 2016 / 179 Recommendation: Background: Attachments: