School Committee

LOWELL SCHOOL COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Date: March 6, 2024 Time: 6:30PM Location: City Council Chamber, 375 Merrimack Street, 2nd Floor, Lowell, MA 01852 Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC and those wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item shall register to speak in advance of the meeting by sending an email to the Superintendent indicating the agenda item, a phone number and email address so we can provide a zoom link to access the meeting. Email address is lbedoya@lowell.k12.ma.us. If no access to email you may contact us at 978-674-4324. All requests must be submitted before 2:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. 1. SALUTE TO FLAG 2. ROLL CALL On a roll call at 6:34 p.m., all members present were, namely: Mr. Bahou, Mr. Conway, Ms. Delrossi, Ms. Doherty, Mr. Lay, Ms. Martin and Mayor Rourke. Ms. Jisella Sanquiche, LHS Class Senator was also present. 3. MINUTES 3.1. Approval of the Minutes of the Regularly Scheduled Lowell School Committee Meeting of February 7, 2024 Ms. Delrossi made a motion to accept and place on file the minutes of the Regularly Scheduled and Special School Committee Meetings (strike Executive Session) that were held on February 7, 2024; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 3.2. Approval of the Minutes of the Special/Executive Session Meeting of February 7, 2024 Ms. Delrossi made a motion to accept and place on file the minutes of the Regularly Scheduled and Special School Committee Meetings (strike Executive Session) that were held on February 7, 2024; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 4. PERMISSION TO ENTER 4.1. Permission to Enter: March 6, 2024 Mr. Lay made a motion to approve the Permission to Enter; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 2 of 13) 5. MEMORIALS 5.1. Colonel David F. Wall, Father of Reilly School First Grade Teacher Jessica Gallagher 5.2. Denise Rita Pare, Front Office Secretary at Lowell High School 5.3. Timothy G. Keefe, Father of Kathleen Keefe (LHS), Meaghan Keefe (LHS), and Courtney Keefe (Bailey), and Brother of Mark Keefe (LHS) 6. MOTIONS Mr. Conway made a motion to suspend the rules to add a motion; seconded by Mr. Bahou. 7 yeas APPROVED Mayor Rourke made a motion to request the Superintendent contact the appropriate individuals to create a scholarship in the name of William (Billy) Rizos to be funded by private contributions; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED Mr. Rizos addressed the Committee regarding a scholarship in honor of his brother, William (Billy) Rizos. Mayor Rourke asked Superintendent Skinner to reach out to Mr. Rizos to assist. 6.1. [By David Conway]: Ask the superintendent for an update on the financial internal control audit (The Abrahams Report) and give a date for the release of the results in total of the report. Mr. Conway made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.2. [By David Conway]: Ask the superintendent to meet with the Athletic Director and other personnel to develop an update on our athletic programs at Lowell High School and our Middle Schools. Mr. Conway stated that he would like to meet in an Athletic Subcommittee after the information is gathered. Mr. Conway made a motion to approve; seconded by Mr. Lay. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.3. [By David Conway]: Request the superintendent meet with the appropriate members of the Lowell Police Department to re-establish the “Safety Task Force”, a partnership between the Lowell School Department and the Lowell Police Department, designed to make our schools a safer environment for our students and staff. Mr. Conway made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Delrossi. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.4. [By David Conway]: Ask the Superintendent, in light of the recent potential data breach, to request an outside audit of the security of our network, to determine how we can maximize the safety of our system. Mr. Conway made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 3 of 13) 6.5. [By Eileen DelRossi]: Request the superintendent to research the feasibility of integrating the teachings of the Muslim Religion, and celebrations into the curriculum for the 2024/25 school year, as well as recognizing holidays such as Eid Al Fitr for March of 2025. Ms. Delrossi made a motion to allow Mr. Sayem Hasan, a student at the Robinson School, to address the Committee regarding her motion; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED Ms. Delrossi made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.6. [By Eileen DelRossi]: Motion to poll members of the Equity Subcommittee and schedule a meeting for the purposes of parsing disaggregated data surrounding already specified areas: dropout rates, failure rates, attendance rates and Hispanic/Latinx support needs with specific district commitments. Ms. Delrossi made a motion to approve; seconded by Mr. Bahou. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.7. [By Eileen DelRossi]: Motion to poll members of the Policy and Governance Subcommittee to schedule a meeting for the purposes of reviewing policy and creating updates. Ms. Delrossi made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.8. [By Eileen DelRossi]: Request the superintendent to inform the public of where they can find the monthly air quality tests performed at the Pawtucketville Memorial School. Ms. Doherty requested that this information be put on the website and to have the company provide context so the staff and public understands the results. Ms. Delrossi made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.9. [By Eileen DelRossi]: Request the superintendent to work with the proper departments in order to provide enhanced security surrounding the perimeter of the high school entrances that are not under surveillance. Ms. Delrossi made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.10. [By Eileen DelRossi]: Request the superintendent to work with the proper departments to develop a live work order system so staff in schools will know when their repair requests will be completed. Ms. Delrossi made a motion to approve; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.11. [By Eileen DelRossi]: Request the superintendent to update the school committee on the search for a new Special Education Director as well a Transportation Director for the district. Ms. Delrossi made a motion to approve; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.12. [By Fred Bahou]: Request the proper department of the administration to begin an outreach to parents, students, & the Lowell community at public events, community gatherings, houses of worship & through an ad campaign the benefits of having students attend Lowell Public schools. Mr. Bahou made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 4 of 13) 6.13. [By Dominik Lay]: Ask Superintendent update on recent network and data problems. Mr. Lay made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.14. [By Jackie Doherty]: Request the Superintendent present the committee with a revised job description for the Attendance Monitor role that is more in line with current compensation standards for this position. Ms. Doherty made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 6.15. [By Jackie Doherty]: Request the Superintendent post school committee and subcommittee meeting notices on the district social platforms as well as list them on the district calendar webpage as was past practice. Ms. Doherty made a motion to approve; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 7. SUBCOMMITTEES 7.1. Approval of the Minutes of the Finance Subcommittee Meeting of February 21, 2024 Mr. Bahou, Chairperson of the Finance Subcommittees shared the report with the Committee that the current year finances of Lowell Public Schools as of January 2024, are being closely monitored and the finance department is pivoting spending to avoid sending money back in unspent grant funds. The report stated that both the Food Service and Circuit Breaker revolving accounts have reached their ceiling and need to be spent down. The report stated that the ESSER account has been updated consistently due to obstacles such as post pandemic work shifts and supply chain issues. The report stated that the $10 million that was set aside for facilities is earmarked for STEM modulars, boiler systems, steam plants, air units, water station installation and space solution investments. The report stated that the district will only be receiving approximately $14 million dollars in Student Opportunity Act (SOA) funding instead of the $30 million that was received last year. The report showed overtime wages that were paid. The report stated that the regarding bad bills the school department is not looking for funding from the city to pay these bills. He stated that due to ESSER, the business office has seen an increase of purchase/service orders and payroll in the amount of approximately $130 million dollars with no additional help. Mr. Bahou made a motion to accept the reports as reports of progress; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 7.2. Approval of the Minutes of the Curriculum & Instruction Subcommittee Meeting of February 27, 2024 Ms. Martin, Chairperson of the Curriculum Subcommittee informed the Committee that an overview of the district’s student absenteeism was provided. She stated that following the COVID-19 school closures Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 5 of 13) there has been a sharp decline in student engagement, an increase in chronic absenteeism, and a rise in dropout rates across the state. She stated that acknowledging these critical concerns, the Office of Teaching and Learning responded by establishing a Student Resource Center in 2022. This department is dedicated to implementing re-engagement strategies, with a focus on students who have dropped out, daily attendance, chronic absenteeism, and graduation rates. She stated that various efforts have been undertaken to develop a comprehensive approach to student engagement, involving collaboration with the Attendance Office, the Office of Mental Health, Behavior, and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), as well as the Office of Special Education. She stated that various departments have been collaborating with schools to identify and address barriers to attendance and innovative strategies for student engagement. She stated that the attendance office reaches out to all the schools. She stated that they’re constantly looking at their work and measuring it quarterly and that schools have made significant gains. She then spoke about the “current status of Reading Instruction in the district, specifically addressing the use of Balanced Literacy vs. Structured Literacy curriculum and pedagogy.” She stated the topics addressed were as follow:  Reading Instruction Context in MA & Lowell  The Science of Reading  How the Science of Reading has been communicated to educators and to the Public?  MA DESE Curriculum & Instruction Expectations  Reading Curriculum & Instruction in Lowell  Professional Learning in Lowell  Assessment and Intervention in Lowell  “High Quality Instructional Materials” according to DESE  Equity vs. Equality: Do all students need the same curriculum? Ms. Martin stated that she would like to recommend that the administration flush out professional development opportunities around balanced literacy and structured literacy. Ms. Doherty stated that she is concerned that the feedback around literacy from our teachers is not being heard. Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the reports as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martiny. 7 yeas APPROVED 8. REPORTS OF THE SUPERINTENDENT 8.1. Mental Health and Wellness Mr. Rosenshine, Director of Mental Health & Social Emotional, provided an update to the Committee around mental health and wellness. He stated that the mental health and wellness goal is to improve tier I, II mental health and SEL support for students, increase support to social work, improve communication to schools, and further implementation of the DESSA tool. He stated that the vision is to develop a comprehensive school mental health system that values inclusivity and equity where every member, student, family, community partner, and staff collaborate to serve the best interests and needs of students and families. He stated that the district is dedicated to educating the whole child, Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 6 of 13) equal access to resources, and being responsive to the ever-changing needs within our diverse community. He stated that the focus is leadership and planning in 2023-2024 to initiate the design of a Comprehensive Mental Health System for Lowell Public Schools. They’re as follows: Promotion o Mental Health Education and Access o Positive School Climate o Cultural Competence o Policy and Leadership Prevention and Collaboration o Staff Training o Family Involvement o Data Collection and Evaluation Early Intervention o Community Collaboration Intervention and Support o Intervention o Crisis Response Ms. Doherty asked if all staff have professional development or just social workers. Mr. Rosenshine stated that other staff have been invited. Ms. Delrossi asked what happens to a student if they bring a knife to school. Mr. Rosenshine stated that usually the social worker and the administration work together and develop a plan for the student. Mr. Lay asked who a student can report being treated unfairly to. Superintendent Skinner stated a trusted adult in the student’s life. Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 8.2. KPI Report: Q2 Ms. Crocker-Roberge, Interim Chief Schools Officer provided a report to the Committee that stated that the KPIs identified fall within four (4) main categories:  Academics and Student Achievement  Safe and Welcoming Environment  Operational Efficiency  Family and Community Engagement Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 7 of 13) The report stated that key highlights are presented within each area. The report included supporting tables and charts that illustrate the metrics from the previous year. The report stated that the data is also disaggregated by reporting groups where applicable. Ms. Martin made a motion that moving forward the KPI Report should be presented at a School Improvement & Performance Management subcommittee and then presented to the Committee; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 8.3. Response to Motion (By Eileen DelRossi, 02/07/24) Regarding Migrant Student Reports Ms. Crocker-Roberge, Interim Chief Schools Officer provided a report to the Committee that stated that enrollment between January 2nd and February 14th of this year, the Lowell Public Schools enrolled 372 new students and unenrolled 192 students, for a net gain of 180 students. The report stated that of the 372 newly enrolled students, 190 have been classified as EL, while 30 of the192 students who have left LPS are classified as EL. This has resulted in a net gain of 123 EL students. The report stated that while the recent addition of a shelter at the Inn & Conference Center has served close to 270 children, only approximately 20% of those children so far are school-aged. Several of those children were previously registered in nearby districts and have elected, under the McKinney-Vento Act, to be transported to their current school district. The report stated that as of February 23, 2024, there are a total of 47 students registered in the Lowell Public Schools who reside at the UML Inn & Conference Center (ICC) and that another group of families is expected to be moved to the ICC toward the end of February, with an anticipated 31 school-aged children. The report stated that of the 47 students already enrolled, only two are currently receiving special education evaluation services at the early childhood level and 40 out of the 47 students are classified as Multilingual Learners, including both newcomers (entering/beginning) and students at the developing/expanding/bridging levels of WIDA proficiency. The report stated that a student registration team from the Family Resource Center has been deployed to the ICC to conduct in-site registration services and that families have also been guided to central office to access transportation, language testing services, and other referrals. Students are receiving meals, referrals to LCHC for medical care, access to Catie’s Closet for clothing and toiletries, and access to school-based social work services. Referrals from school-based social workers for additional therapy or coordinated services are made with our partner agencies, such as Care Solace and Vinfen and that several schools have a “buddy” system set up in the school to help new students acclimate and make friends, in addition to the Newcomer classrooms and ESL pull-out classes provided that include cultural acclimation components. The report stated that reports from school leaders indicate that students from the ICC are adjusting well to their new school environments and many have already been in school in the U.S. and in Massachusetts before, so there is some basic familiarity with the educational system here for children and families. Ms. Doherty asked about the EL PAC and if there is a date for it. Ms. Crocker-Roberge stated that she will provide that date to the Committee. Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 8 of 13) 8.4. Response to Motion (By Eileen DelRossi, 02/07/24) Regarding Student Enrollment Ms. Phillips, Chief Equity & Engagement Officer provided a report to the Committee that included data that showed enrollment numbers by school, grade, class size and zone. The report stated that It is important to note the following: Zone 1  All five (5) elementary schools in Zone One have four (4) strands.  All three (3) middle schools in Zone One have six (6) strands. Zone 2  There are five (5) elementary schools in Zone Two. o Four (4) elementary schools have four strands. o One (1) school, Washington Elementary, has two strands.  There are two (2) middle schools in Zone Two. o The Butler has five strands, while the Sullivan has six strands. Citywide School  There are three (3) K-8 citywide magnet schools. o The Bartlett and Pyne Arts have three strands, while the STEM has four strands.  There are two (2) citywide elementary schools. o The Lincoln has four strands, while the Moody has two strands.  There is only one (1) citywide middle school, Robinson Middle School, which has six strands. Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 8.5. Response to Motion (By David Conway, 01/17/24) Regarding MCC/UML Partnerships Ms. Crocker-Roberge, Interim Chief Schools Officer provided a report to the Committee that informed them that in December, 2023, Superintendent Skinner and members of the Lowell Public Schools Executive Cabinet held an initial meeting at University Crossing with the new Chancellor of UMass Lowell, Dr. Julie Chen, and members of her executive team, as well as Retired State Representative Steven Pangiotakos, who attended the meeting and served as a liaison with UML and LPS. The meeting was called to discuss the state of current partnerships between the University and the Lowell Public Schools and opportunities to expand and support further partnerships under the new administrations of UML and LPS. The report also highlighted their featured partnership with Middlesex Community College and the Early College Lowell Program. The Early College Lowell Program has provided hundreds of students with the opportunity to earn college credit from Middlesex Community College while attending Lowell High School. The program has expanded in recent years to allow students who are focused on obtaining college credits while at LHS the opportunity to earn a full Associate’s Degree during their four (4) years at LHS. Superintendent Skinner and the team at Lowell High School have worked with MCC to expand on the success of this partnership and during the 2024-2025 school year, Lowell High School and Middlesex Community College will pilot a program under Early College Lowell which will allow seniors to take courses on campus at MCC. Mr. Conway stated that he would like the public to be made aware of all these great partnerships. Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 9 of 13) 8.6. Response to Motion (By Eileen DelRossi & Jackie Doherty, 05/03/23) Regarding Intervention Program and Progress Ms. Desmond, Chief Academic Officer provided a report to the Committee that informed them that this motion addresses two different issues. The report stated that one (1) is focused on interventions for students, and the other is focused on progress monitoring of 3rd and 4th grade students through 2031 and 2032. The report stated that all students do not need interventions; however, students that do require interventions are monitored using the TCI/TAT process at the school level. Schools use an updated version of the Teacher Assistance Team (TAT) process that begins by documenting Targeted Classroom Instruction/Interventions, referred to as TCI. TCI/TATs may be initiated in response to an identified concern, as part of data analysis of student performance, or to provide proactive strategies to prevent a student from falling behind in a more challenging academic or social skill area. The report stated that for literacy, students requiring intervention are monitored by DIBELS mClass data in grades K3 across the year, Fountas and Pinnell Benchmark Assessments (Grades K-4 & as needed 5-9), iReady Reading Diagnostics (Grades 1-9), and other assessments as needed based on student need. Students performing on or above grade level are also assessed, but would not be receiving interventions. They may be participating in small groups or accelerations. For mathematics, students are identified as needing intervention using the i-Ready mathematics diagnostic assessment. Students that require mathematics intervention are monitored using the i-Ready mathematics diagnostic assessment, i-Ready standards mastery assessments, end-of-module and end-of-unit mathematics assessment data. The models and tools used for intervention vary between schools. The recommendation is for each school to have 30 minutes of intervention time daily for those students who need it. Ms. Doherty asked when this is happening. Ms. Desmond stated that they’re computer based and some are not. She stated that there is a block for tier I and tier II instruction. She stated that this is supported by tutors and paraprofessionals. Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 8.7. Response to Motion (By Eileen DelRossi, 01/17/24) Regarding Crossing Guards at Robinson/McAuliffe Ms. Crocker-Roberge, Interim Chief Schools Officer provided a report to the Committee that informed them that on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, City of Lowell Transportation Engineer, Elizabeth Oltman, PE, conducted a review of the traffic density and pattern outside of the Robinson and McAuliffe Schools during their morning arrival times with Interim CSO Wendy Crocker-Roberge. Additional information was obtained pertaining to afternoon dismissal as well. Currently, the Police Department has three (3) vacant Crossing Guard positions that it has been unable to fill due to a lack of interest/available candidates. There is currently one (1) crossing guard positioned on Bridge Street to cross students on the main road leading up to the school. The greatest need for additional support is in front of the Robinson Middle School during morning drop-off, which is on school property and may be managed by school administrative staff. The report cited many recommendations around traffic flow and the Chief Schools Officer will follow up with the Facilities Director, school-based staff, and the district Safety Coordinator on these next steps. Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 10 of 13) Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 8.8. Response to Motion (By Jackie Doherty, 02/07/24) Regarding Student Needs Ms. Desmond, Chief Academic Officer provided a report to the Committee that informed them that Lowell Public Schools uses Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) to address a myriad of student needs, from academic to social and behavioral. Schools use an updated version of the Teacher Assistance Team (TAT) process that begins by documenting Targeted Classroom Instruction/Interventions. The Targeted Classroom Instruction/Intervention process may be initiated in response to an identified concern, as part of data analysis of student performance, or to provide proactive strategies to prevent a student from falling behind in a more challenging academic or social skill area. During the TCI/TAT process, the team may identify a concern that requires a 504 review. Mr. Rosenshine, LPS Director of Mental Health, coordinates the 504 processes at the district level. At the building level, there is a 504 lead who organizes the school-based team to review the data to determine if a 504 is required to support the student’s need. If it is determined that interventions are not supporting a student’s need a special education referral may be initiated. In those cases, the Lowell Public School’s evaluation process is followed. The evaluation processes are outlined in the LPS Special Education Handbook posted on the Lowell Public School’s district website and is reviewed and/or updated annually. The information below is from the Lowell Public School’s Special Education handbook: The special education evaluation process and eligibility determination are similar for most disability areas including emotional impairments and include some additional processes for identifying specific learning disabilities. After assessments have been completed in the area(s) of suspected disability, the special education team convenes for an eligibility determination meeting to review the evaluation data and identify if the student meets criteria for one or more of the disabilities defined under 603 CMR 28:02 (7) and if, as a result of the disability, the student is unable to progress effectively in the general education program without the provision of specially designed instruction, or is unable to access the general curriculum without the provision of one or more related services, the special education team shall determine the student is eligible. If the special education team determines the student is an eligible student, the special education team shall develop an individual education program and determine placement. Ms. Doherty stated that she wanted more information around absenteeism due to anxiety. She stated that parents have reached out to her with concerns about their child being disciplined when the issue is caused by anxiety. Superintendent Skinner stated that he believes that schools deal with this and that if Ms. Doherty ever receives a call from a parent around this matter have them contact the school or the Superintendent’s office. Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 8.9. Response to Motion (By Eileen DelRossi, 02/07/24) Regarding MTSS System Ms. Crocker-Roberge, Interim Chief Schools Officer provided a report to the Committee that informed them Lowell Public Schools uses Multi-Tiered Systems of Support to address a myriad of student needs, from academic to social and behavioral. Schools are using an updated version of the Teacher Assistance Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 11 of 13) Team (TAT) process that begins by documenting Targeted Classroom Instruction/Interventions, referred to as TCI. The TCI/TAT process was piloted at selected schools in early 2023 and has been added to the Aspen dock for all schools beginning at the start of this school year. TCI/TATs may be initiated in response to an identified concern, as part of data analysis of student performance, or to provide proactive strategies to prevent a student from falling behind in a more challenging academic or social skill area. Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 8.10. Response to Motion (By Jackie Doherty, 9/6/23) Regarding Emergency Licenses Dr. Hall, Chief Operating Officer provided a report to the Committee that informed them that as of our last report on October 18, 2023, there were 103 educators working on emergency or temporary licenses in Lowell Public Schools. A full list of the relevant positions and schools was provided at that time. Since that time twenty-one (21) of those educators have attained a full license. Of the remaining eight-two (82), all but six (6) appear to be on track to be fully certified by the end of this school year. All staff working with emergency or temporary licenses have been provided with a mentor with whom they can interact with on a daily basis and additional supports have been given. Ms. Doherty made a motion to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.10 as reports of progress; seconded by Ms. Martin. 7 yeas APPROVED 8.11. Home Education Superintendent Skinner recommended that the following parents/guardians be allowed to home educate their child: David Mollica Mr. Bahou made a motion to approve; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. William Skinner Disclosures Mr. Lay made a motion to accept William Skinner’s disclosures and to place them all file; seconded by Ms. Delrossi. 7 yeas APPROVED 9.2. James Hall Disclosures Ms. Martin made a motion to accept James Hall’s disclosures and to place them all file; seconded by Mr. Lay. 7 yeas APPROVED 9.3. Consideration of Drake Academy Approval Mr. Lay made a motion to send the proposal from Drake Academy to the City Solicitor to seek an opinion as to our obligations under the statue; seconded by Ms. Doherty. 7 yeas APPROVED Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 12 of 13) 9.4. Approval of Updated School Calendar Mr. Conway made a motion to approve the updated 2023-2024 school calendar; seconded by Ms. Delrossi. 7 yeas APPROVED 10. CONVENTION/CONFERENCE REQUESTS Ms. Shelter spoke to the about convention/conference requests. 10.1. Overnight Request: Lowell High School Portrait of a Graduate Convening in Springfield, MA Ms. Doherty made a motion to bundle and approve the Convention/Conference requests; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 10.2. Overnight Request: National Association for Research in Science Teaching Conference in Denver, CO Ms. Doherty made a motion to bundle and approve the Convention/Conference requests; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 10.3. Overnight Request: Lowell High School Portrait of a Graduate in Manchester, CT Ms. Doherty made a motion to bundle and approve the Convention/Conference requests; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 10.4. Overnight Request: United 2024 in Nashville, TN Ms. Doherty made a motion to bundle and approve the Convention/Conference requests; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED 10.5. Overnight Request: National Leadership Conference in Chicago, IL Ms. Doherty made a motion to bundle and approve the Convention/Conference requests; seconded by Mr. Conway. 7 yeas APPROVED Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 13 of 13) 11. ADJOURNMENT Ms. Doherty made a motion to adjourn at 8:57 p.m.; seconded by Mr. Lay. 7 yeas APPROVED Respectfully submitted, Liam Skinner, Superintendent and Secretary to the Lowell School Committee LS/mes Lowell Public Schools • 155 Merrimack Street • Lowell, MA 01852 • http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us