School Committee
Regular MeetingSalem, MA · August 16, 2021
Minutes
Salem Public Schools
Salem School Committee
Meeting Minutes
August 16, 2021
On August 16, 2021 the Salem School Committee held its regular School Committee meeting at
7:00 PM using the Zoom platform.
Members Present: Mayor Driscoll, Ms. Mary Manning, Mr. Manny Cruz, Ms. Amanda
Campbell, Dr. Kristin Pangallo, and Ms. Ana Nuncio
Members Absent: Mr. James Fleming
Others in Attendance: Superintendent Stephen Zrike, Assistant Superintendent Kate
Carbone, Assistant Superintendent Mary DeLai, Chelsea Banks, Liz
Polay-Wettengel, Marc LeBlanc, Linda Farinelli, Glenn Burns, Adam
Colantuoni, Charlene Moske-Weber, and Dr. Clovene Campbell
Call of Meeting to Order
Mayor Driscoll called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. Mayor Driscoll read the new Public
Participation Policy 6409 and also explained the request for Spanish interpretation for
participation.
Approval of Agenda
Mayor Driscoll requested a motion to approve the Regular Agenda. Ms. Manning motioned and
Ms. Nuncio seconded. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Mayor Driscoll Yes
Motion carries 5-0
Approval of Consent Agenda
Mayor Driscoll requested a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Dr. Pangallo motioned and
Ms. Manning seconded. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Mayor Driscsoll
Motion carries 5-0
Mr. Cruz entered at 7:12 pm
8.16.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 1
Public Comments
The School Committee Secretary announced that there were several public comments.
Michelle Grundy, 6 North Pine Street requested that her comment be read aloud.
Would the school department be willing to provide N-95 masks to teachers/staff and KN-95 masks for kids? Dr.
Michael Osterholm, Director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy strongly suggests that we
could stop the spread of the Delta variant better if people wore more effective masks like the N-95 to protect us
from aerosol spread. (Even just one per staff member).
Julia Knisel, Becket Street requested that her comment be read aloud.
According to the latest published COVID risk level data, Salem is nearing the "yellow" category with 9.2 average
daily cases per 100,000 in population. What community risk level (or other threshold) has the District and School
Board set to reinstate the remote learning option, especially for students who are not yet eligible to get vaccinated?
Sarah Dulong, 2 Arnold Drive requested that her comment be read aloud.
Dear School Committee Members and Superintendent Zrike,
I am happy and relieved to see how serious Salem is taking covid-19 and helping protect our kids in school and
happy with the new recommendations being added to help protect kids and the community. With that being said I
still have a pit in my stomach as a parent of two elementary age kids who don't qualify for vaccines yet that even
with all this strong mitigation it is still not enough. I feel two areas of concern for me are unmasking at any point in
school and not having the option of remote school.
I really want to send my kids in person...my kids want to go back in person...last time they were in person was
march 2020. I am concerned that the schools are still looking at last year's success as a point to show how this year
will work the same way with even less mitigation in some areas for a much more contagious strain of the virus. Last
year my child's elementary school did classrooms by cohorts so they could have smaller classroom sizes which they
are not doing this year which I don't understand why when this year we have a much more contagious strain.
Though my biggest concern is the unmasking inside school. I spoke with my friend's wife last night who is a pediatric
ICU Dr in Nyc (to help me navigate the true risks to my children going back in person from a scientific viewpoint and
coming also from a Dr who deals with covid in children every day) and told her the efforts Salem is doing which she
commended Salem on and I discussed my biggest concern is the mask breaks indoors and eating inside (breakfast
lunch snack) which she agreed on is not ideal during this delta variant . I know at my school parents volunteered for
lunch breaks but mask breaks need to be done outside too. It negates wearing masks in school if everyone takes
them off inside for breaks especially with the highly contagious delta variant. Also we discussed the kind of mask
that is needed to protect your child with delta is a kids kn95 or 5 layer mask. Having those masks can help reduce
transmission in big ways..has the schools looked into providing these kinds of masks to the younger students who
are not eligible for vaccines yet. With the outdoor initiative in Salem with all the elementary schools I feel that this
should be taken advantage of 100% by the schools and use it as much as possible. We all know the outdoors is the
safest place right now with the virus..I think outdoor learning for these young kids who aren't vaccinated should be
a crucial part of keeping them safe this year, keeping mask breaks outside so they can remove them safely without
possibly infecting others as well as getting fresh air which is so important and let students opt out of breakfast
lunch and snack inside because I know for me personally I don't want my kids eating inside a school right now.
Second is the remote option. I feel completely frustrated as a parent that this was not taken into consideration or
even had questionnaires sent out to look at interest in it. Both my children had an extremely successful year doing
remote and it would have been ideal to have this option until they had the chance to be vaccinated . It is upsetting
that our neighboring town of Peabody had a well thought out robust remote program and we don't. I know we
didn't know about Delta last school year but we know about it now and we need to take this seriously and give
choices to families who may not feel comfortable sending their child in person until vaccinated..home-school
shouldn't be the only option ..people want to keep their kids safe (or high risk family members) but also still be a
part of their community remote offered that. I don't understand why it's not being discussed and offered.
Thank you for all that you are doing and I hope you take into consideration what I have said in my letter as well
Thank you, Sarah Dulong
8.16.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 2
Danielle Norris-Gardiner, 19 Boardman Street requested that her comment be read aloud.
Delta is a different beast, and from what we are seeing in schools that have already started in other parts of the
country, what worked well last year will not be enough this year. I feel very strongly that we must ask our children
and staff members to “hold the line” and exercise great ingenuity and strict protocols for just a bit longer. Vaccine
eligibility for the 12 and under set is within sight, and it would be heartbreaking for kids to get ill when they’ve
already sacrificed so much the past 18 months. I urge schools to mandate that mask breaks should only happen
outdoors, breakfasts should be eaten outdoors if possible or at the very least finished before the morning bell rings
so everyone is masked up when school starts. Outdoor lunches should happen well into the late fall with an opt-in
option for parents to have their kids eat even in colder winter temperatures if dressed properly. I tell my kids that
“cold is better than COVID.” 15 minutes of above freezing temperatures is not perilous, and it will not leave them
with lasting health issues. We cannot say the same of the Delta variant.
Lise Hansen-Damato, 53 Hawthorne Street requested that her comment be read aloud.
I really appreciate how comprehensive the plan is - this in conjunction with the measures that were approved by SC
last week (which I strongly support). However, I'm very concerned that there has been no public discussion about
plans for children to continue their learning from home if they must quarantine. Is there a plan? If so, it would be
great for the district to share that. If not, I hope that one is in the works. If I have Covid, and my kid is healthy and
able to learn but simply not allowed to be in school, he should not miss two weeks of learning time. And I'm pretty
sure he'd be labeled truant at that point. We know that infections will happen. We know that quarantines will be
required. Lets be prepared to continue learning whenever possible.
Joanne Scott, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem requested that her comment be read aloud.
Our Boys & Girls Club is excited to collaborate with Shamus Mruk and other Salem High School Staff at the
Community program at Saltonstall School on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We look forward to helping to give kids a
hands up to a fulfilling and rewarding life!
Report from the Student Representative - Hawa Hamidou Tabayi
None
Educator’s Showcase
None
Report of the Superintendent
a. Presentation regarding the Community Office in Salem High School
Superintendent Zrike announced that there would be a presentation from the Community
Office in Salem High School. Shamus Mruk and Scott Tombleson, assistant principals and Glenn
Burns, principal of the high school came before the Committee to give an update on the
Community Office at the High School. Mr. Mruk reported that at the conclusion of 1st quarter at
the high school, 88% of 9th graders were failing at least one course. He added that statewide
96% of 9th graders who do not fail a class in the 9th grade graduate on time but on the other
hand, 75% of 9th graders who failed four classes do not graduate on time. Therefore, they are
focused on ensuring that our 9th graders are on track. He explained the Community Office is a
place to connect with SHS students and families. Tutoring and support is available, there is
access to guidance counselors, childcare, technology resources and hot meals are offered. There
are teachers and staff who volunteered for the first 2 months and ROOT provided meals. The
SHS intern program and First Church in Salem supported the child care program. The results of
8.16.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 3
the offering have been that 2x more classes have moved from failing to passing with increased
GPAs. This has impacted students with EIPs, emerging bilingual students, and 9th graders.
Enrollment grew throughout the year with 202 SHS students who accessed the Community
Office. Students continued to attend through the summer which helped with learning gaps from
virtual school, and offered support for the increased social emotional needs. They will continue
to offer tutoring, hot meals, free childcare and technology resources 2 evenings a week at
Saltonstall location. They would like to expand their services to partner with the Boys and Girls
Club, offer athletics, arts and activities for SHS students and create a community center for the
students and families to connect with SHS.
b. Back to School Update
1. Health and Safety Recommendations Part 2
Dr. Zrike began with explaining the health and safety regulations. Dr. Zrike introduced Dr.
Campbell who he said was available to answer questions. Ms. Banks was introduced and
explained that part 1 of the health and safety recommendations were discussed last week and
she would now explain the second part of the recommendations. She stated that the only
students that need to be isolated are those who test positive. She does not believe that close
contacts will need to be quarantined. Rather, they can test and stay with the rapid on-site
testing now available. In order to participate, a parent consent form, which is being sent home,
will need to be signed and returned. The new recommendations include: vaccine or biweekly
Covid testing for staff and high respiration activities. Dr. Zrike announced that there will be a SPS
staff forum tomorrow night regarding the recommendations.
Dr. Zrike addressed the question of remote learning. He announced that only 7 districts in the
state applied and were granted approval and explained that the reason SPS did not apply is
because there were not many requests for it.
Mr. Cruz asked what would happen if a student tests positive. Dr. Zrike responded that we do
have a plan, but will need to speak to the Unions and will share with families next week.
Several other questions were asked regarding masks. Dr. Campbell recommends doing as many
activities as possible outdoors. If indoors, she recommends trying physical distancing and
staggering lunches and breaks. She also answered that children do not necessarily need a
specific mask, as long as it fits well then it works.
Dr. Pangallo asked if vaccines are considered effective even though they were quickly
introduced. Dr. Campbell responded that the technology was developed pre-Covid. Normally it
takes years to approve but technology has made the process much quicker. There was also a
question from Ms. Manning regarding what exactly is in the vaccine and Dr. Pangallo explained
that the makeup of the vaccine cannot change anyone’s DNA, which are some of the concerns
people had.
Dr. Zrike announced some of the highlights for the school year, such as the new high school
schedule and start times, facility safety updates, and small class sizes with new outdoor spaces.
8.16.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 4
Dr. Zrike introduced Assistant Superintendent Kate Carbone who reported on the preschool
updates. She explained that there are 14 preschool classrooms and added 72 seats, and are still
looking to hire teachers for PE and art. They have selected a preschool curriculum and will be
partnering with 3 community partners and professional development will be done jointly with
these partners. She explained that 2 lotteries were held and they will not be holding a 3rd, just
filling seats as applications come in through the Parent Information Center.
2. Enrollment
Dr. Zrike reported that the numbers for kindergarten are low. The high school has 843 students,
of which 167 are seniors. He said that at the moment, we have an increase of 41 students from
last year’s October 1 enrollment.
3. Staffing
Dr. Zrike introduced the new Executive Team members for the district. He announced that there
are still some open vacancies for staff although they are working to fill them.
Dr. Zrike announced that going forward we would be providing Spanish interpretation for all the
School Committee meetings and also provide a Spanish recording.
c. ESSER 3 Overview and Planning Presentation
Dr. Zrike introduced Assistant Superintendent Mary DeLai who gave an update on the ESSER
funds. She outlined the amount awarded for each fund: ESSER I, ESSER II and ESSER III (which
has not been applied for yet), how much has been expended and what is still available.
Ms. Campbell asked for an update on the targets that were set for the preschool program. Dr.
Zrike responded that unfortunately some of the targets were not met for many different
reasons and said they would forward more information once the program is settled. Ms. Nuncio
asked if the parents are denying the seats due to ½ day enrollment rather than offering a full
day program or 4 days vs 5 days? Dr. Zrike explained that the new classrooms did offer full day,
but some of the parents require extended days, which the preschool does not offer. Dr.
Pangallo added that the Curriculum Subcommittee will be meeting to discuss the Preschool
curriculum. Ms. Manning asked about the frequency of the cleaning at the schools and is
everything we put in place last year still happening? Ms. Banks responded that last spring the
CDC modified their recommendations on cleaning since the virus is not so much a contact
spread concern but a respiratory concern. Therefore, the schools are still doing a daily cleaning
and the deep cleaning is now done once a week.
Ms. DeLai announced that they are fully staffed with custodial staff. She said that they are
having the HVAC systems checked again this year to make sure that they are all working
efficiently and appropriately. There is also a change with buses that they will not be cleaned and
sanitized between each run, but at the end of each day.
8.16.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 5
Old Business
None
New Business
a. Acceptance of donation from First Church in Salem in the amount of $1,500 for the
SHS Community Office Program
Mr. Cruz made a motion to accept the donation from First Church in Salem in the amount of
$1,500 for the SHS Community Office Program. Ms. Manning seconded the motion. A roll call
vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Mayor Driscoll Yes
Motion carries 6-0
b. Deliberation and vote to accept the job description for the District Coordinator of
Translation and Interpretation Services
Mr. Cruz made a motion to accept the job description for the District Coordinator of Translation
and Interpretation Services. Mrs. Nuncio seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Mayor Driscoll Yes
Motion carries 6-0
Mr. Cruz reported that the Personnel Subcommittee had reviewed the job description and gave
their feedback. The committee unanimously supported this.
c. Deliberation and vote to accept the recommendations of the Superintendent for
school reopening health and safety part 2.
Ms. Manning made a motion to accept the recommendations of the Superintendent for school
reopening health and safety part 2. Mr. Cruz seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Mayor Driscoll Yes
Motion carries 6-0
8.16.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 6
d. Deliberation and vote on request from League of Women Voters - Salem and the Salem
Education Foundation to use the School Committee Chambers in the Collins Middle
School and to waive fees.
Dr. Pangallo asked if the public should be allowed in the building. Ms. Manning suggested
possibly moving to a larger space such as the auditorium where people could be spaced out. A
friendly amendment was added that the request should be aligned with the district’s COVID
protocols.
Dr. Pangallo made a motion to approve the request from League of Women Voters - Salem and
the Salem Education Foundation to use the School Committee Chambers in the Collins Middle
School and to waive fees. Ms. Nuncio seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Mayor Driscoll Yes
Motion carries 6-0
Finance Report
None
Subcommittee Reports
Ms. Nuncio announced that there were 19 policies for second reading and 5 policies
recommended for deletion. She added that Dr. Pangallo had attended the last Policy
Subcommittee meeting and requested additional information regarding policy 5711.01 Students
with Food Allergies.
a. Policy Subcommittee
i. Policies for Second Reading
5417 Student Attendance at Public Events
5701 Health Services/First Aid
5704 HIV
5708 Automatic External Defibrillators (AED’s)
5709 Medication Administration
5710 Do Not Resuscitate Order
5711 Wellness
5711.01 Students with Food Allergies
5711.02 Nutrition
5711.03 Physical Activity
5712 Athletic and School-Related Activity Concussion Policy
5714 Alternative Transportation on School Grounds
5801 Accident Insurance
8.16.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 7
5803 Student Parking
5804 Free and Reduced Breakfasts and Lunches
5805 Use of Handheld Devices
5806 Student Observations
5807 Athletics and Student Activities Fees
6201 Review of Policies
Ms. Nuncio made a motion for second reading of the policies listed above. Mr. Cruz seconded
the motion. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Mayor Driscoll Yes
Motion carries 6-0
ii. Policies for Third Reading
4109 Leaves of Absence
5405 Interrogations and Searches
5406 Student Demonstrations and Strikes
5407 Corporal Punishment
5408 Student Discipline
5408.01 Discipline of Students with Disabilities
5408.02 Exclusion for Non-School Related Concerns
5409 School Bus
5410 Harassment and Violence
5413 School Property
5414 Vandalism
5415 Bomb Threats
5416 Use of Physical Restraint
5501 Responsible Use of Technology
5702 Availability of In School Programs for Pregnant Students
5703 Immunizations of Students
5705 Child Abuse and Neglect
5706 Communicable Diseases
5707 Student Physicals
Ms. Nuncio made a motion for third reading of the policies listed above. Mr. Cruz seconded the
motion. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
8.16.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 8
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Mayor Driscoll Yes
Motion carries 6-0
Mr. Cruz thanked Ms. DeLai for clarification on information regarding the bus drivers that he had
requested at the last meeting.
School Committee Concerns and Resolutions
Ms. Nuncio asked if no changes were made to the Policies, could we add no change and the
reviewed date to the policy and not send it through three readings. This will be followed up
with legal, then will report back.
Adjournment
Mayor Driscoll requested a motion to adjourn. Mr. Cruz motioned and Ms. Nuncio seconded. A
roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Mayor Driscoll Yes
Motion carries 6-0. Meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by,
Nancy A. Weiss
Executive Assistant to the School Committee & Superintendent
Approved September 13, 2021
8.16.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 9
Agenda
Ms. Mary A. Manning Ms. Ana Nuncio
Mr. James M. Fleming Mr. Manny Cruz
Dr. Kristin Pangallo Ms. Amanda Campbell
Mayor Kimberley Driscoll, Chair
“Know Your Rights Under the Open Meeting Law, M.G.L. c.30A § 18-25 and
City Ordinance Sections 2-2028 through 2-2033”
August 12, 2021 - REVISED
REGULAR SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING ON AUGUST 16, 2021
Notice is hereby given that the Salem School Committee will hold a Regular School Committee
meeting on Monday, August 16, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. This is an on-line Zoom meeting.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://zoom.us/j/91697644956?pwd=S3FEMXh3ekxxdGYrTnJCR3pRTW91QT09
Passcode: 2Rbjt2
I. Call of Meeting to Order
a. Summary of Public Participation Policy (SC Policy #6409).
Read aloud: The Salem School Committee would like to hear from the public on issues
that affect the school district and are within the scope of the Committee’s
responsibilities. Spanish interpretation is available for anyone who needs it.
b. Request for Spanish Interpretation.
Should any member of the public need Spanish interpretation in order to participate in
the meeting, please click on the below link (no later than 12:00 pm on the day of the
meeting to request Spanish interpretation):https://forms.gle/L8VwxkVuAmvudEK57.
c. Instructions for Participating in Public Comment
Should any member of the Salem community wish to participate in public comment during
this meeting, please click on the below link to sign up and submit your comment
electronically:https://forms.gle/6wM1JFFQbNVc7Xqg7. A district staff member will be
compiling all comments which will be shared with members prior to the end of the public
meeting. Comments will also be summarized in the meeting minutes. Please contact Nancy
Weiss at nweiss@salemk12.org or 617-285-7567 with any questions or to report any
technical difficulties you experience.
II. Approval of Agenda
III. Approval of Consent Agenda
a. Minutes of the Regular School Committee meeting held on July 19, 2021
b. Approval of Warrant: 7/22/2021 in the amount of $60,444.66, 7/29/2021 in the
amount of $366,398.63, 8/5/2021 in the amount of $410,043.91 and 8/12/2021 in the
amount of $291,361.59.
IV. Public Comment
Please see above for instructions on participating in public comment.
SALEM PUBLIC SCHOOLS
REGULAR SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING
AUGUST 16, 2021
PAGE 2
V. Report from the Student Representative – Hawa Tabayi
VI. Educator’s Showcase
VII. Superintendent’s Report
a. Presentation regarding the Community Office at Salem High School
b. Back to School Update
1. Health and Safety Recommendations Part 2
2. Enrollment
3. Staffing
c. ESSER 3 Overview and Planning Presentation
VIII. Action Items: Old Business
IX. Action Items: New Business
a. Acceptance of donation from First Church in Salem in the amount of $1,500 for the
SHS Community Office Program
b. Deliberation and vote to accept the job description for the District Coordinator of
Translation and Interpretation Services.
c. Deliberation and vote to accept the recommendation of the Superintendent for
school reopening health and safety part 2.
d. Deliberation and vote on request from League of Women Voters - Salem and the
Salem Education Foundation to use the School Committee Chambers in the Collins
Middle School and to waive fees.
X. Finance & Operations Report
XI. Subcommittee Reports
a. Policy Subcommittee
i. Policies for Second Reading
5417 Student Attendance at Public Events
5701 Health Services/First Aid
5704 HIV
5708 Automatic External Defibrillators (AED’s)
5709 Medication Administration
5710 Do Not Resuscitate Order
5711 Wellness
5711.01 Students with Food Allergies
5711.02 Nutrition
5711.03 Physical Activity
5712 Athletic and School-Related Activity Concussion Policy
5714 Alternative Transportation on School Grounds
5801 Accident Insurance
5803 Student Parking
SALEM PUBLIC SCHOOLS
REGULAR SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING
AUGUST 16, 2021
PAGE 3
i. Policies for Second Reading - continued
5804 Free and Reduced Breakfasts and Lunches
5805 Use of Handheld Devices
5806 Student Observations
5807 Athletics and Student Activities Fees
6201 Review of Policies
ii. Policies for Third Reading
4109 Leaves of Absence
4302 Bus Drivers
5405 Interrogations and Searches
5406 Student Demonstrations and Strikes
5407 Corporal Punishment
5408 Student Discipline
5408.01 Discipline of Students with Disabilities
5408.02 Exclusion for Non-School Related Concerns
5409 School Bus
5410 Harassment and Violence
5413 School Property
5414 Vandalism
5415 Bomb Threats
5416 Use of Physical Restraint
5501 Responsible Use of Technology
5702 Availability of In School Programs for Pregnant Students
5703 Immunizations of Students
5705 Child Abuse and Neglect
5706 Communicable Diseases
5707 Student Physicals
XII. School Committee Concerns and Resolutions
XIII. Adjournment
Respectfully submitted by,
Nancy A. Weiss
Executive Assistant to the School Committee & the Superintendent
“Persons requiring auxiliary aids and services for effective communication such as sign language interpreter,
an assistive listening device, or print material in digital format or a reasonable modification in programs,
services, policies, or activities, may contact the City of Salem ADA Coordinator at (978) 619-5630 as soon as
possible and not less than 2 business days before the meeting, program, or event.”
Sra. Mary A. Manning Sra. Ana Nuncio
Sr. James M. Fleming Sr. Manny Cruz
Dra. Kristin Pangallo Sra. Amanda Campbell
Alcaldesa Kimberley Driscoll, Preside
“Conozca sus Derechos según la Ley de Reuniones Abiertas, M.G.L. c.30A § 18-25 y Secciones de
Ordenanzas de la Ciudad 2-2028 hasta 2-2033”
12 de agosto de 2021
REUNIÓN ORDINARIA DEL COMITÉ ESCOLAR EL 16 DE AGOSTO DE 2021
Por la presente se notifica que el Comité Escolar de Salem llevará a cabo una reunión del Comité Escolar
Regular el lunes 16 de agosto de 2021 a las 7:00 p.m. Esta será una reunión virtual en Zoom.
Haga clic en el enlace a continuación para unirse al seminario web:
https://zoom.us/j/91697644956?pwd=S3FEMXh3ekxxdGYrTnJCR3pRTW91QT09
Contraseña: 2Rbjt2
I. Convocatoria de reunión al orden
a. Resumen de la Política de Participación Pública (Política SC # 6409).
Leer en voz alta: El Comité Escolar de Salem quisiera escuchar al público sobre asuntos que
afectan al distrito escolar y están dentro del alcance de las responsabilidades del Comité. La
interpretación en español está disponible para cualquier persona que la necesite.
b. Solicitud de interpretación al español.
Si algún miembro del público necesita interpretación en español para participar en la reunión,
haga clic en el enlace a continuación (a más tardar antes de las 12:00 pm del día de la reunión
para solicitar interpretación en español): https://forms.gle/L8VwxkVuAmvudEK57.
c. Instrucciones para participar en comentarios públicos
Si algún miembro de la comunidad de Salem desea participar en un comentario público durante esta
reunión, haga clic en el enlace a continuación para registrarse y enviar su comentario
electrónicamente:https://forms.gle/6wM1JFFQbNVc7Xqg7. Un miembro del personal del distrito
recopilará todos los comentarios que se compartirán con los miembros antes del final de la reunión
pública. Los comentarios también se resumirán en el acta de la reunión. Comuníquese con Nancy
Weiss al nweiss@salemk12.org o al 617-285-7567 con cualquier pregunta o para informar cualquier
dificultad técnica que tenga.
II. Aprobación de la agenda
III. Aprobación de la agenda de consentimiento
a. Acta de la reunión del Comité Escolar Ordinario celebrada el 19 de julio de 2021
b. Aprobación de la orden judicial: 22/7/2021 por un monto de $ 60,444.66, 29/7/2021 por un
monto de $ 366,398.63, 5/8/2021 por un monto de $ 410,043.91 y 12/8/2021 por un monto
de $ 291,361.59.
IV. Comentario público
Consulte más arriba para obtener instrucciones sobre cómo participar en comentarios públicos.
V. Informe del Representante de Estudiantes - Hawa Tabayi
VI. Presentación del educador
Sra. Mary A. Manning Sra. Ana Nuncio
Sr. James M. Fleming Sr. Manny Cruz
Dra. Kristin Pangallo Sra. Amanda Campbell
Alcaldesa Kimberley Driscoll, Preside
PÁGINA 2
VII. Informe del superintendente
a. Presentación sobre la Oficina de la Comunidad en Salem High School
b. Actualización de regreso a clases
1. Recomendaciones de salud y seguridad, parte 2
2. Inscripción
3. Dotación de personal
c. Presentación de planificación y descripción general de ESSER 3
VIII. Elementos de acción: asuntos previos
IX. Elementos de acción: asuntos nuevos
a. Aceptación de la donación de First Church en Salem por un monto de $ 1,500 para el
Programa de Oficinas Comunitarias de SHS
b. Deliberación y votación para aceptar la descripción del trabajo del Coordinador de Servicios
de Traducción e Interpretación del Distrito.
c. Deliberación y votación para aceptar la recomendación del Superintendente para la
reapertura de la escuela, parte 2 de salud y seguridad.
d. Deliberación y votación a solicitud de la Liga de Mujeres Votantes - Salem y la Fundación
Educativa de Salem para usar las Cámaras del Comité Escolar en la Escuela Intermedia
Collins y eliminar las tarifas.
X. Informe de operaciones y finanzas
XI. Informes de subcomités
a. Subcomité de políticas
i. Políticas para la segunda lectura
5417 Asistencia de estudiantes a eventos públicos
5701 Servicios de salud / Primeros auxilios
5704 VIH
5708 Desfibriladores externos automáticos (DEA)
5709 Administración de medicamentos
5710 Orden de no resucitar
5711 Bienestar
5711.01 Estudiantes con alergias alimentarias
5711.02 Nutrición
5711.03 Actividad física
5712 Política de conmoción cerebral por actividades deportivas y relacionadas con la
escuela
5714 Transporte alternativo en terrenos escolares
5801 Seguro de accidentes
5803 Estacionamiento para estudiantes
Sra. Mary A. Manning Sra. Ana Nuncio
Sr. James M. Fleming Sr. Manny Cruz
Dra. Kristin Pangallo Sra. Amanda Campbell
Alcaldesa Kimberley Driscoll, Preside
PÁGINA 3
5804 Desayunos y almuerzos gratuitos o de costo reducido
5805 Uso de dispositivos portátiles
5806 Observaciones de estudiantes
5807 Tarifas de Atletismo y Actividades Estudiantiles
6201 Revisión de políticas
ii. Políticas para la tercera lectura
4109 Permiso de ausencia del trabajo
4302 Conductores de autobús
5405 Interrogatorios y registros
5406 Manifestaciones y huelgas de estudiantes
5407 Castigo corporal
5408 Disciplina del estudiante
5408.01 Disciplina de estudiantes con discapacidades
5408.02 Exclusión por inquietudes no relacionadas con la escuela
5409 Autobús escolar
5410 Acoso y violencia
5413 Propiedad de la escuela
5414 Vandalismo
5415 Amenazas de bomba
5416 Uso de restricción física
5501 Uso responsable de la tecnología
5702 Disponibilidad de programas escolares para estudiantes embarazadas
5703 Vacunas de estudiantes
5705 Abuso y negligencia infantil
5706 Enfermedades transmisibles
5707 Exámenes físicos para estudiantes
XII. Inquietudes y resoluciones del comité escolar
XIII. Aplazamiento
Respetuosamente presentada por,
Nancy A. Weiss
Asistente Ejecutiva del Comité Escolar y el Superintendente
“Las personas que requieran ayudas y servicios auxiliares para una comunicación eficaz, como un intérprete
de lenguaje de señas, un dispositivo de ayuda auditiva o material impreso en formato digital o una
modificación razonable en los programas, servicios, políticas o actividades, pueden comunicarse con el
Coordinador de la ADA de la ciudad de Salem al (978) 619-5630 lo antes posible y no menos de 2 días hábiles
antes de la reunión, programa o evento ".
DRAFT
Salem Public Schools
Salem School Committee
Meeting Minutes
July 19, 2021
On July 19, 2021 the Salem School Committee held its regular School Committee meeting at
7:00 PM using the Zoom platform.
Members Present: Ms. Mary Manning, Mr. Manny Cruz, Ms. Amanda Campbell,
Dr. Kristin Pangallo, Ms. Ana Nuncio, and Mr. James Fleming
Members Absent: Mayor Driscoll
Others in Attendance: Superintendent Stephen Zrike, Assistant Superintendent Kate
Carbone, Assistant Superintendent Mary DeLai, Chelsea Banks,
and Liz Polay-Wettengel
Call of Meeting to Order
Vice Chair Manning called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. Ms. Manning read the new Public
Participation Policy 6409 and also explained the request for Spanish interpretation for
participation.
Approval of Agenda
Vice Chair Manning requested a motion to approve the Regular Agenda. Mr. Fleming motioned
and Dr. Pangallo seconded. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Mr. Fleming Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Motion carries 6-0
Approval of Consent Agenda
Vice Chair Manning requested a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Mr. Fleming motioned
and Ms. Nuncio seconded. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Mr. Fleming Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Motion carries 6-0
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 1
DRAFT
Public Comments
The School Committee Secretary announced that there were three public comments.
Renee Melendez, Crescent Drive asked to be recognized to speak.
Committee Members and Community:
I am here to bring attention to the agenda being taught in all the schools of Salem, and across the United States of
Critical Race Theory or what others know to be “equity and inclusion or social injustice”, since many parents have a
lack of awareness of what this actually means.
CRT is, in fact, teaching our children to HATE each other. It is making white people out to be “white supremacists”,
when, in fact, all everyone wants to do is live in peace as a community. There are many families in Salem that are
biracial, mine included; and CRT teaching is making a HUGE impact on the mental health and self-esteem of our
children. You are making them question: Who they are; Are they bad people; Am I safe in my community. A point
being made is, that there are oppressed people, which I do not believe, but there are, in fact, people who want or
expect everything to be handed to them on a “silver platter.” To not be or feel oppressed, you have to work HARD
for what you want in life. You are teaching children NOT to judge on MORAL character, but on race, sex, ethnicity,
and even religion. THIS IS WRONG in all aspects. GET IT OUT OF THE SCHOOL and GET BACK ON TRACK TEACHING
WHAT YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO BE TEACHING OUR CHILDREN. Stick with teaching MATH, English (ELA), Science,
Social Studies (not the changing history, but what is the history there), and CIVICS (should be added) as their main
studies. Leave the upbringing to the parents!
According to statistics, race, ethnicity and sex are NOT an issue among Americans and this is an AGENDA that is
being FORCED upon us and taught to our children in school. This should NOT be taught there at ALL. Hate is taught
at home and that is where it should be STOPPED.
When school does commence, I DEMAND that a syllabus be given to every parent, for every subject, for the entire
school year in every grade; so they are aware of what exactly is being taught. When our children are being taught
on computers and we do not have access to student’s actual schoolwork; we do not know exactly what is being
taught; therefore, are not being made aware of teachings.
The Board of Education, The School Committee, Superintendent, Principals, and Teachers are overreaching their
powers by an AGENDA and WE THE PEOPLE will not stand for it. YOU work for us. WE pay your salaries with our
tax money. YOU ANSWER TO US.
Dr. Brenden Walsh, 5 West Terrace asked to be recognized to speak.
I would like to take a minute of your time to react to the effort to provide universal pre-school in Salem.
I shall not read my previously sent email to you. I hope that you will re-read it. I wish to reiterate that even universal
pre-school will not “narrow the gap” of socio-economically based vocabulary differences that hamper so many
children of poverty.
I wish also to remind you of the simple fact that vocabulary is too often taken for granted as the foundation stone of
education. The more words a child has heard upon entering formal education the better they will do. It IS that
simple. The gap between the vocabulary foundations of children of poverty and their better off peers is enormous,
but not impossible to close.
Let me use a very sad recent occurrence as an illustrative analogy. A Florida Condo building recently collapsed. The
problem was within the foundation of the building. All the roof repairs or even first floor improvements in the world
would not have saved that building. The foundation was inadequate. Anything but a shoring up of the foundation
would have been an example of “sending good money after bad.”
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 2
DRAFT
So it is with far too many children. Work done in upper grades (even early upper grades) is considerably more
expensive and far less effective than utilizing the earliest possible intervention. Parent Child starts at age 2 and
directly involves the parent, the most important person in a child’s universe.
Any cost-benefit analysis applied to Parent-Child HAS TO lead you to the conclusion that it is indeed the most
cost-efficient investment you can make and should be looked upon as a first priority and not “something we can do
with extra money”. Please do not let the opportunity pass by again as it has so often in the past.
I am more than willing to meet with any member who wishes to look more deeply into this opportunity.
Thank You.
Brendan R. Walsh, Ed.D.
Debra Turner, 1 Cherry Street has requested that her comment be read aloud.
Hello and good evening, my Salem school peeps!
I feel as if I must preface this all by apologizing that I am not my chipper, cheerful self this evening and will,
unfortunately, not be able to provide any comic relief in the form of my usual self-deprecating humor or otherwise
as I might have in my public comments in the past. My spirits have been dampened like the weather because we
learned that, sadly, my daughter was not selected in the first round of the preschool lottery which occurred today. I
have been SO psyched about the prospect of my baby girl being able to go to school this fall to join her big brother
who will be starting kindergarten as well. My youngest being in school would not just delight her little heart by
enabling her to join in with some big-kid cred like her older siblings, but also would enable me to get back into the
workforce which I desperately hoped to do after this past year has pretty much devastated my family financially (as
well as many others, I'm sure.)
At the risk of being overly candid, I'll admit that my (large) family falls into the "low-income" category this year
which means that, yes, we had a 50/ 50 shot of her getting a spot. I knew this going in, but I had my hopes up and
I'd just like to remind everyone involved that it can be pretty heartbreaking news to receive when we don't have the
option of paying/ affording private preschool. I'm not saying that everyone on the other side of the coin would be
able to afford it either, but I'll confess to my eyes welling up when I got the news. It stings. Please be gentle.
I am 100% in support of this program and am still super-duper proud that Salem even thought of it when it's not
something I'd even dream of another city doing. Just felt I needed to be a Debbie Downer with the reality checks for
all, to punctuate the obvious that this city has many more families like mine that might be feeling more than a little
down this evening because we all could really use, and need, a program like this in a big way in Salem.
Thanks so much.
I'll try to be a little brighter with my comments next time. Go Witches
Educator’s Showcase
None
Report of the Superintendent
Dr. Zrike introduced Assistant Superintendent Kate Carbone. Ms. Carbone gave an update of the
Pre-K lottery. She explained that the first lottery drawing was this past Friday. There were 113
applications received, which were time stamped, for 72 open seats. She added that half of the
seats were pulled on Friday. The second drawing will be on August 5th for the remaining seats.
Currently, 36 seats were filled using the 65-35 ratio. She explained that this morning they
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 3
DRAFT
mobilized an outreach team to make calls and notify families. They first called the selected
families to be sure they would take the seat. In case they were no longer interested, the open
slot would be put back into the lottery. The team then reached out to those who did not get a
seat, and explained to them their application will still be available for the second lottery.
Ms. Campbell spoke that although she appreciated the 65-35 ratio, she will continue to
advocate for the 70-30 ratio.
a. Presentation of Superintendent’s Recommendation of High School Redesign
Superintendent Zrike explained that as part of the strategic revision of the priorities for the
district was the need to clarify and define what high school redesign really means to Salem. He
stated that they needed to create a shared vision for the high school experience with equity at
the center and to increase opportunity for all students. Dr. Zrike added that recommendations
of the high school redesign were made to the Superintendent, which he plans to accept.
Dr. Zrike introduced Dr. Flores to present the recommended high school redesign. Dr. Flores
began her presentation by acknowledging the students, staff, family and community partners
that helped with the process of the redesign. Dr. Flores explained the goal was to develop a
2-year plan to clarify the portrait of a Salem Public Schools graduate and to clarify the high
school design priorities with equity at the center across all three high school campuses, SHS,
NLIS and Salem Prep. Dr. Flores outlined the process of the specific work and their two
recommendations, defining the portrait of a Salem graduate and explaining the guaranteed
student experiences.
The first recommendation, Portrait of the Graduate includes:
- critical thinking
- creative problem solving
- collaboration
- communication
- self-awareness
- cultural competence
The second recommendation, Guaranteed Student Experiences includes:
- four-year personalized graduation plan
- high quality social-emotional and academic learning
- credits or credentials
- participation in the arts
- participation in at least one extra-curricular activity
Dr. Flores also explained some of the barriers that need need to be addressed which include,
current narrative of success, racist legacy structures that limit access, lack of opportunity for
participation across or between campuses, lack of transportation to locations of extra-curricular
activities, and lack of knowledge and access to arts and club activities (especially for immigrant
families).
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
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DRAFT
Dr. Flores concluded by stating that the next steps include review and approval of these
recommendations, further planning involving leadership, stakeholders and students and
implementation of the work plans.
Ms. Manning asked what grades were the students that participated in this process. Dr. Flores
responded that they were 9th and 10th graders. Ms. Manning also asked about the guarantees
and are they requirements? Dr. Flores responded that they are guaranteed the opportunity, but
it is not a requirement.
Ms. Campbell commented that she appreciates that it is a 4 year personalized plan for every
graduate and that this has a significant impact on how students see themselves in their
academic trajectory and helps to keep them connected and invested in schools.
Mr. Fleming asked for an example of the legacy barriers. Dr. Flores responded that tracking,
educational equity and prerequisites for advanced coursework opportunities.
Mr. Fleming also asked if there is an effort at the three high schools to help students in the cp
level to overcome the prerequisites to make it to the advanced coursework. Dr. Flores
responded that there is and gave as an example that they examine the prerequisites to see if
they are necessary or not.
Dr. Zrike noted that the blueprint of what they are proposing has been shared with Executive
Principal Glenn Burns for him to implement.
b. Presentation of Revised Strategic Plan and Metrics
Dr. Zrike stated that although he originally shared his strategic plan this past spring, he has taken
the feedback that the committee provided and has revised some of the plan and has included
that in the new metrics. He is asking for final approval from the Committee for these metrics.
c. Reflections on the 2020-2021 School Year and Implications for Future Work
Dr. Zrike introduced Chelsea Banks who presented reflections on the year and shared the
findings of what was heard from the different stakeholders in the focus groups.
Ms. Banks explained how access to in-person instruction was increased this past year and how
changes were made to meet the needs of the students. She also explained how they balanced
risks, articulated a plan and prioritized students based on their needs. She added that the
community came together to provide the best learning experiences for the students. Ms. Banks
gave a summary of what they heard from the focus groups that included students, families and
teachers, etc. With all the ideas and recommendations that were presented, they were able to
determine what to maintain from this past year and ideas on how to build a better system
together.
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
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DRAFT
Dr. Pangallo thanked Ms. Banks for all the information that came from the focus groups and
commented that she is excited to do more learning outside and hopes that moving forward we
can make use of the outdoor spaces.
Dr. Zrike reminded everyone of the grand opening of Bertram Field on Thursday, July 22nd at
5:30 pm.
Report from the Student Representative - Hawa Hamidou Tabayi
Vice Chair Manning recognized Ms. Tabayi had entered the meeting at 8:15 pm. Ms. Tabayi gave
a brief overview to the School Committee of what the Student Advisory Council has been
focusing on and hopes to continue to work on this fall, which consists of student rights from
administrators and teachers.
Old Business
None
New Business
a. Deliberation and Vote on the Revised Strategic Plan and Metrics
Mr. Fleming made a motion to accept the revised strategic plan and metrics presented by the
Superintendent. Mr. Cruz seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Mr. Fleming Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Motion carries 6-0
Finance Report
a. Budget Transfers
FY22 Budget Transfer Request 1 - The School Department requests the following transfer to
fund the increase of Workers Compensation insurance for FY22.
Mr. Fleming made the motion and Ms. Nuncio seconded. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Mr. Fleming Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Motion carries 6-0
Mr. Fleming requested information for the next meeting regarding if the pricing of the Worker’s
Compensation insurance was competitive.
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 6
DRAFT
b. SY20/21 Personnel Report Summary
Mr. Cruz asked if Ms. DeLai could provide a status update on the high level positions and
current searches for the next meeting.
c. SY21-22 Unfilled Positions
Dr. Pangallo asked if the part time positions could be looked at and if they could
somehow be combined with another position to make it full time.
Subcommittee Reports
Ms. Nuncio gave an update on the changes that were made to the policies presented tonight.
Dr. Pangallo had questions regarding Policy 5711 and 5711.01 relating to food allergies and
recognizing that some medical food restrictions should be acknowledged in the policy. Also, it
seems to be giving authority to the Wellness Committee for the policy rather than the Policy
Subcommittee. Ms. Manning explained that most of the details are not yet in this policy and
they will be meeting again in August to further discuss this with Adam Colantuoni. Dr. Pangallo
also questioned why the label containers are no longer available as reasons on Policy 5709. Ms.
Nuncio responded that this change was made by the Director of Nursing.
a. Policy Subcommittee
i. Policies for First Reading
5417 Student Attendance at Public Events
5701 Health Services/First Aid
5704 HIV
5708 Automatic External Defibrillators (AED’s)
5709 Medication Administration
5710 Do Not Resuscitate Order
5711 Wellness
5711.01 Students with Food Allergies
5711.02 Nutrition
5711.03 Physical Activity
5712 Athletic and School-Related Activity Concussion Policy
5714 Alternative Transportation on School Grounds
5801 Accident Insurance
5803 Student Parking
5804 Free and Reduced Breakfasts and Lunches
5805 Use of Handheld Devices
5806 Student Observations
5807 Athletics and Student Activities Fees
6201 Review of Policies
Ms. Nuncio made a motion for first reading of the policies listed above. Mr. Cruz seconded the
motion. A roll call vote was taken.
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 7
DRAFT
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Mr. Fleming Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Motion carries 6-0
ii. Policies for Second Reading
4109 Leaves of Absence
5405 Interrogations and Searches
5406 Student Demonstrations and Strikes
5407 Corporal Punishment
5408 Student Discipline
5408.01 Discipline of Students with Disabilities
5408.02 Exclusion for Non-School Related Concerns
5409 School Bus
5410 Harassment and Violence
5413 School Property
5414 Vandalism
5415 Bomb Threats
5416 Use of Physical Restraint
5501 Responsible Use of Technology
5702 Availability of In School Programs for Pregnant Students
5703 Immunizations of Students
5705 Child Abuse and Neglect
5706 Communicable Diseases
5707 Student Physicals
Ms. Nuncio made a motion for second reading of the policies listed above. Mr. Cruz
seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Mr. Fleming Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Motion carries 6-0
ii. Policies for Third Reading
4110 Harassment and Violence
4117 Nepotism
4120 Responsible Use of Technology
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 8
DRAFT
4201 Position Control
4203 Teachers’ Review of Student Files
4204 Employee Evaluation
4205 Professional Growth and Development for Staff
4301 Support Staff Positions
4302 Bus Drivers
Mr. Cruz asked a question regarding 4302 Bus Driver policy; does the contract specify that a
background check be done every 3 years? Ms. DeLai responded that the contract with NRT does
not specify the number of years for background checks.
Mr. Fleming requested to table Policy 4302 Bus Drivers until the next meeting.
Ms. Campbell made a motion for third reading of the policies listed above, except for Policy
4302. Mr. Cruz seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Mr. Fleming Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Motion carries 6-0
School Committee Concerns and Resolutions
Ms. Nuncio would like to find out for our next meeting where we are with discussions regarding
family engagement facilitators being included in the Union. Dr. Zrike responded that we are
starting to engage with AFSCME in the successor contract discussions and a date has been set
up with this as a topic of discussion. Dr. Zrike added that he fully expects that by the start of the
school year we will be able to have a new plan in place for them to join a Union with a salary
schedule attached to that.
Dr Pangallo requested for the August meeting, what the district is considering for a mask policy
for the fall.
Ms. Manning asked what the District was planning to do for Spanish interpretation. She added is
this something that can be resolved before the start of the school year.
Adjournment
Vice Chair Manning requested a motion to adjourn. Mr. Fleming motioned and Ms. Nuncio
seconded. A roll call vote was taken.
Ms. Manning Yes
Mr. Cruz Yes
Mr. Fleming Yes
Dr. Pangallo Yes
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 9
DRAFT
Ms. Nuncio Yes
Ms. Campbell Yes
Motion carries 6-0. Meeting adjourned at 8:51 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by,
Nancy A. Weiss
Executive Assistant to the School Committee & Superintendent
7.19.2021 School Committee Minutes
Page 10
Community Office
at
Salem High School
Shamus Mruk - Assistant Principal for 9th and 10th Grades and the
Newcomer Program - Salem High School
Our need was apparent…
At the conclusion of
Quarter 1 at Salem High
School 88% of 9th
graders were failing at
least one course.
Statewide 96% of 9th
graders who do not fail
a class in 9th grade
graduate on time.
75% of 9th graders
who failed four
classes do not
graduate on time.
Laser focused
on ensuring our 9th
graders were on track.
Our response was decisive…
Salem High School
Community
Office
A place to connect with SHS
students and families.
● Face to face tutoring and support
● Access to guidance counselor
● Childcare
● Hot meals
● Technology resources
Our Community
came together….
● Teachers and staff volunteered for
first two months
● Saltonstall shared space
● ROOT provided meals
● SHS intern program and First Church
supported our child care program
Outcomes and Impact…
Passed Classes
2x more classes
moved from failing
to passing
Increased GPA
1 or more sessions:
Increased GPA from Q1 to Q4 by .2
5 or more sessions:
Increased GPA from Q1 to Q4 by .5
Emerging Bilingual
Impact
● > 50% attended one or more nights
● Those who attended moved more classes from failing to passing
● Increased GPA from Q1 to Q4 more than those who did not attend
Impact on
Students with IEPs
● > 25% attended one or more nights
● Those who attended moved more
classes from failing to passing
● Increased GPA from Q1 to Q4 more
than those who did not attend
Impact on
9th grade students
● > 34% attended one or more nights
● Those who attended moved more classes
from failing to passing (1.5 more classes)
● Increased GPA from Q1 to Q4 more than
those who did not attend (.2 GPA points)
Summer Impact
32 grades moved from failing
to passing with attendance at
the community office
Lessons Learned…
The power of
Social Connections
● SHS staff built positive, supportive
relationships with students
● Enrollment grew throughout the year
● 202 SHS students accessed the
Community Office
● Students continued to attend in the
summer
The need is real
● Learning gaps as students return
from virtual school
● Increased social emotional needs
● More than ever, students need
support from caring adults
We can do this
● We have a ready and
accessible location
● Students and families value
this program
● We have staff ready to
continue the work
Next Steps…
Continue the Work
● Two evenings per week at Saltonstall
● Academic tutoring and support
● Hot meals provided for students
● Free childcare
● Technology resources
Expand our Services
● Partner with the Boys and Girls Club
● Offer athletics, arts, activities for
Salem High School students
● Create a true community center for
our students and families to connect
with Salem High School
Student Voices...
Questions
SPS 2021 Opening Health & Safety Recommendations - Part II
Salem Public Schools remains committed to a safe and healthy reopening for all students, staff, and families in
our district. We expect a full in-person return to school for all students (remote learning will only be an option for
students who qualify for home and hospital care per Massachusetts’ regulation). On Monday, August 9th, the
Salem School Committee unanimously approved Salem Public Schools’ recommendations for the upcoming
opening of school that utilize a multi-layered approach to reducing the risk of spread and to minimize disruption to
learning for our students and their families summarized below:
In addition to the implementation strategies above, the COVID-19 vaccines are the most effective intervention to
reduce the risk of both spread of and severe illness due to the virus. SPS is offering another free vaccination clinic
on Saturday, August 28th from 11am-1pm at Saltonstall (211 Lafayette St.). In order to maximize health & safety,
Salem Public Schools also recommends the following additional steps to protect our students, staff, and
community this fall.
Recommendation A – Required staff vaccination or biweekly COVID-19 testing: In March 2021, 92% of the
staff that responded to our survey had already received their vaccine or had scheduled their appointment. In
alignment with the City of Salem’s Keep Salem Safe, Open, & Strong campaign, SPS is working with the Salem
Teachers Union to require either (1) proof of vaccination or (2) biweekly (twice per week) COVID checks (formerly
called surveillance testing). SPS school nurses will collect proof of vaccination during all staff PD week (week of
August 24th) and SPS is able to offer free, on-site testing for staff.
Recommendation B – Weekly COVID checks for high respiration extracurricular activities for ages 12 and
older: Extracurricular activities are an important part of the educational experience SPS is able to provide for our
students, but many also increase the risk of spread during the pandemic. Beginning in winter 2021, SPS
implemented a required weekly COVID check (formerly called surveillance testing) in order to participate in
athletics. This fall, in order to participate in any high respiration extracurricular activities, including athletics, band,
chorus, and drama, SPS plans to resume this practice of requiring once per week COVID checks for all
extracurricular activities. SPS is able to offer free, on-site testing.
Recommendation C – Required student vaccination or masks required outdoors and proof of consultation
with your healthcare provider for high respiration extracurricular activities for ages 12 and older: The
COVID-19 vaccine has now been approved for ages 12 and over since May, 2021. Currently, 55% of 12-15 year
olds and only 43% of 16-19 year olds in the City of Salem have been vaccinated. This fall, in order to participate in
any high respiration extracurricular activities, including athletics, band, chorus, and drama, SPS will require that
students ages 12 and older have either (1) proof of vaccination OR (2) participants must wear masks even when
outdoors and must show evidence of having consulted with their healthcare provider about receiving the vaccine.
SPS will provide the required form to be signed by the healthcare provider documenting the consultation and will
offer access to healthcare providers for students who need it. SPS will collect proof of vaccination prior to the start
of the season or at the start of the school year.
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316 Essex Street 53-7129/2113
Salem, MA 01970
(978)744-1551 06/29/2021
PAY TO THE
ORDER OF Salem High School c/o Shamus Mruk, VP $*1,500.00
One thousand five hundred and 00/100 ""****************************""'"*•••••***********************"******""*******"*·...• DOLLARS!
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77 Willson Street la
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7028
06/29/2021 Salem High School c/o Shamus Mruk, VP
SHS Community Office Program 1,500.00
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Salem Public Schools
District Coordinator of Translation and Interpretation Services, Anticipated
Opening (1495)
JOB POSTING
Job Details
Title District Coordinator of Translation and Interpretation Services, Anticipated Opening
Posting ID 1495
Description Salem Public Schools
Salem is a small, diverse city with a proud maritime and immigrant history. Salem Public School
leaders are passionate about urban education and understand the urgency of improving student
achievement. They respect and value the racial, cultural, and linguistic diversity of our students
and their families, and have a strong commitment to the Salem community. Salem Public
Schools seeks individuals who are able to serve all of our students, regardless of ability or
language.
What You’ll Do:
Salem Public Schools serves students and families who speak over 30 languages. The Salem
Public Schools seek a creative, organized, and skilled bilingual person who can support the
district’s goal of effective and timely communication with all families in their respective home
languages. The District Coordinator of Translation and Interpretation Services will oversee the
timely and accurate translation of all requests from Central Office and district schools to families
of students who speak languages other than English. While the district coordinator will delegate
and contract service, he/she will also be responsible for providing interpreter/translator services
between 50%-75% of the time. Reporting to the Executive Director of Student and Family
Services, the District Coordinator of Translation and Interpretation Services will work closely with
bilingual personnel across the district to identify needs and streamline processes of multilingual
communication.
Role Responsibilities:
The District Coordinator of Translation and Interpretation will create and build a system for
timely high-quality translation and interpretation fulfillments across all schools and the Central
Office. He/She/They will work closely with interpreters and translators to assign jobs, oversee
and track completion, manage the district translation budget, and implement procedures and
processes that are best practice for multilingual communication with families.
Provide regular translation and interpretation (between 50-75% of the time) for SPS staff
and families
Ensure district compliance with legal requirements for translation and interpretation
Coordinate and assign translation and interpretation requests
Create and upkeep systems and procedures for pre, during and post translation
Create organizational systems for content creation: Google doc folder, templates
Create mandatory training for all staff on translation/interpretation requirements,
procedures, and best practices including how to generate list of guardian notification
language
Update parent language notification preferences for all students yearly
Oversee budget, record keeping, invoice generation and timely payment
Collaborate with school secretaries, family engagement facilitators, Parent Information
Center and special education personnel to ensure all interpretation and translation needs
are met at school events and individual meetings
Update buildings with multilingual signage
Update the translation and interpretation portion of the Salem Public Schools website
Other duties as assigned
Job Requirements:
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Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Trained/certified in translation and interpretation
Bilingual and biliterate in Spanish and English
Strong technology and organizational skills
Manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet multiple deadlines
Maintains professional competence through in-service education activities provided by the
district, and/or in self-selected professional growth activities.
Citizenship, residency or work VISA in the United States required
Equal Opportunity Employer
Salem Public School District is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free
from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender
identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship
status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or disability, as defined and
required by state and federal laws. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals who
oppose such discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity
investigation.
Salary Range
$60-75,000
Shift Type Full-Time
Salary Range Per Year
Location District Wide
Applications Accepted
Start Date 06/28/2021
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