Minutes
Quincy, Massachusetts - June 12, 2013
Regular Meeting of the Quincy School Committee
Regular Meeting
A regular meeting of the Quincy School Committee was held on Wednesday,
June 12, 2013 at Quincy High School. Present were Mayor Thomas Koch,
Mr. Paul Bregoli, Mrs. Kathryn Hubley, Mrs. Emily Lebo, Mrs. Anne Mahoney,
Mr. David McCarthy, and Ms. Barbara Isola, Vice Chair.
Vice-Chair
Presiding
- - -
The Superintendent called the roll and Mrs. Lebo was absent. Also present were:
Dr. Richard DeCristofaro, Secretary; Ms. Laura Owens, Clerk, Ms. Christine
Barrett, Mr. Peter Dionne, Mr. Michael Draicchio, Mr. John Fagerlund, Mrs.
Jennifer Fay-Beers, Mrs. Mary Fredrickson, Mr. Daniel Gilbert, Ms. Kerry Ginty,
Ms. Beth Hallett, Mrs. Jane Kisielius, Ms. Margaret MacNeil, Ms. Maureen
MacNeil, Mr. James McGuire, Mrs. Meg McMillen, Mr. James Mullaney, Mr.
Kevin Mulvey, Mrs. Maryanne Palmer, Mrs. Maura Papile, Commissioner Daniel
Raymondi, Mr. James Rendle, Assistant Superintendent Colleen Roberts, Ms.
Madeline Roy, Mr. Frank Santoro, Mr. Keith Segalla, Mr. Robert Shaw, Mr.
Lawrence Taglieri, Ms. Judy Todd, Mr. Christopher Walker; Ms. Allison Cox,
President, Quincy Education Association, and Mrs. Tracey Christello, Citywide
Parents Council Representative.
- - -
Regular Meeting Minutes Approved
5/22/2013
Mr. McCarthy made a motion, seconded by Mrs. Hubley, to approve the Regular
Meeting minutes for May 22, 2013. On a voice vote, the ayes have it.
Executive Session Minutes Approved
5/22/2013
Mayor Koch made a motion, seconded by Mr. Bregoli, to approve the Executive
Session minutes for May 22, 2013. On a voice vote, the ayes have it.
Regular Meeting Minutes Approved
6/5/2013
Mr. McCarthy made a motion, seconded by Mrs. Hubley, to approve the Regular
Session minutes for June 5, 2013. On a voice vote, the ayes have it.
- - -
Open Forum
Citywide Parents Council Representative to the School Committee Tracey Christello
addressed the School Committee and thanked them personally and on behalf of the
Citywide Parents Council for their diligence during the budget process and for the
partial restoration of media specialists.
- - -
Superintendent’s Report
Superintendent DeCristofaro opened his report welcoming the many special guests
present to Quincy High School. He noted that in the previous week, two extraordinary
graduations had taken place and congratulated the Class of 2013. Dr. DeCristofaro
extended his thanks to all who were a part of these events, including the staff of the
Parks and Maintenance Departments, the school Security staff, and Quincy Police
Department. At these wonderful and safe community events, students were
recognized for their accomplishments, including receiving a number of
scholarships to help further their educations.
Mr. Fagerlund introduced the celebration of National Public Works Week in
conjunction with the Department of Public Works. Events included a Grade 3
field trip to the DPW yard, a Bike Rodeo and Safety Awareness day, the Grade 4
Essay Contest, and the Grade 5 Banner contest. There was also a high school
student photography contest for the program cover, a lunch provided by the
Quincy High School Culinary students, and high school Science projects on
display.
Commissioner of Public Works Raymondi then spoke of the connection between
the Department of Public Works and Quincy Public Schools. This celebration is in
part about educating students on possible career paths and he looks forward to
growing the partnership. $20,000 has been awarded for school ground
beautification over the last two years. Commissioner Raymondi then introduced
the Banner awards: Parker (3rd place), Beechwood Knoll (2nd place), and Snug
Harbor (1st place) and the Essay contest winners: Haley O’Connor from Wollaston
(3rd place); Ying Lam Loo from Snug Harbor (2nd place) and Julia McGillicuddy
from Bernazzani (1
st place). Ms. Isola thanked all of the students for participating
in the event, the parents, teachers, administrators who assisted the students and
Commissioner Raymondi.
Dr. DeCristofaro then invited Assistant Superintendent Colleen Roberts, Mr. Frank
Santoro, Mr. James Rendle, and Mr. James McGuire to be recognized for their
contributions to Quincy Public Schools on the occasion of their retirements. Mrs.
Ellen Hunter and Mr. Brian Smith interviewed each retiree and after the viewing of
a short video, the Superintendent spoke about each retiree.
Athletic Director James Rendle spoke of the importance of being a teacher as well
as a coach, successes and memories, and hoped that he would be remembered as
someone who was a hard worker. Dr. DeCristofaro said that as a coach, Mr.
Rendle was one of the most successful coaches in Quincy history: Girls Volleyball
at North Quincy High School from 1985-2006, 6 state championships, Boston
Globe Coach of the Year 1991 and 2001, in addition to coaching Boys Basketball
and Volleyball.
Mrs. Lebo arrived at 7:30 pm.
Principal James McGuire spoke of the teachers who had an impact on him,
including a favorite high school math teacher and the many positive experiences as
a student growing up. Bringing a sense of humor to being a principal was key to
success; he hopes that all teachers realize the impact they are making on students.
Mr. McGuire hopes to be remembered as someone who tried to make a difference
for the kids. A graduate of Quincy High School, Mr. McGuire began as a Math
teacher at Broad Meadows, then moved to teach at North Quincy High School.
Later he was Assistant Principal at Sterling and Broad Meadows, until he was
appointed Principal of Point Webster Middle School in 1999. Dr. DeCristofaro
described Mr. McGuire as focused, dedicated, and family-oriented, and thanked
him for 36 years of service to Quincy Public Schools.
Mr. Santoro, a graduate of North Quincy High School, credited his experience with
the Recreation department as the inspiration for his teaching career. Mr. Santoro is
most proud of participating in the design and construction of the new Quincy High
School building and enjoyed working in a community where the elected officials,
Superintendent, Leadership team, students, parents, and greater community
encouraged open communication. He hopes that new educators will take the time
to learn about students and connect their lessons inside the classroom to the outside
world and hopes to be remembered as a teacher and principal who took the time to
get to know students and their families and help them. Dr. DeCristofaro spoke of
Mr. Santoro’s over 40 years in education, beginning in Boston and then moving to
Brookline. He served on the School Committee, the Park Board, and the Quincy
College Board. Mr. Santoro first served as Principal of Central Middle School,
followed by his appointment at Quincy High School. His vision for the design of
Quincy High School is his legacy, a beautiful school focused on the students. Dr.
DeCristofaro noted Mr. Santoro's caring about students and unwavering focus on
students and families.
Assistant Superintendent Roberts said her own experience as a student inspired her
to become a teacher; what inspired her to stay in education was her students and
her colleagues. She taught Kindergarten, Grade 2, Grade 5, Middle School, then
went into administration as Assistant Principal at Sterling, Principal at Beechwood
Knoll before becoming Director of Curriculum and then Assistant Superintendent.
Mrs. Roberts most enjoyed the graduations, school concerts, and seeing the
accomplishments of students. Mrs. Roberts spoke of the joy of hiring new
educators and encouraging them to become a part of their school team. Mrs.
Roberts would like to be remembered as a good teacher who cared about her
students and was part of the school community, a hard worker, a good listener, a
problem solver, and someone who cared about Quincy and Quincy Public Schools.
Dr. DeCristofaro spoke of Mrs. Roberts' dedication, work ethic, smile, and
unceasingly caring heart.
Mr. McCarthy thanked all of the retirees: Mr. Rendle was always an example to
the students and coaches, many students have benefitted from Athletics due to his
leadership. Mr. McGuire was a true professional, Quincy Point very lucky to have
him. Mrs. Roberts, amazing in juggling many roles and providing stability during
changing times. Mr. Santoro, a pleasure to work with on the Quincy High School
project and the foundation in stabilizing the school and establishing the culture.
Mrs. Lebo thanked all of the retirees and noted that Mrs. Roberts left big shoes to
fill. Mrs. Mahoney spoke of this being like a graduation, these four professionals
brought compassion and dedication and focused on the individual students and
families behind the numbers. All were so dedicated and their families will be glad
to have them at home. She wished all four many, many years of happy retirement.
Mayor Koch spoke of these educators and their focus on making sure that every
child succeeds in their own way. Our school system is remarkable and each were
remarkable parts of it who had an immeasurable impact on students and families.
Ms. Lindsay Schrier thanked Mr. Santoro for his support of every idea that
students put forward. Mr. Bregoli spoke of how each retiree is a Quincy Public
School graduate and returned ten times over what they learned; they gave of
themselves every day. He thanked Mrs. Roberts for making Dr. DeCristofaro’s job
easier, her love of education is a gift. Mr. McGuire did everything with style,
integrity, and class. Mr. Santoro, hardest working person, invested so much in
school community and brought integrity to each challenge. He concluded by
noting his longtime friendship with Mr. Rendle. Ms. Isola said that all four retirees
have made a tremendous difference. As teachers, they present to School
Committee as if to students, treat each new School Committee member with
respect, and provide answers. All will be missed; Ms. Isola wished each one
health, happiness, and time with families.
Mr. Santoro thanked the School Committee, Superintendent, Leadership Team,
staff – noting that open communication is the key to success. Mr. Rendle said that
after twenty-one years as coach and seven years as Athletic Director, he spent
many nights weekends out and thanked his wife. Mr. McGuire said that he has
loved the opportunity to make a difference at his alma mater Point Webster. He
thanked his wife, daughter, middle school principal colleagues, and the Point
Webster staff. Mrs. Roberts thanked the Superintendent, School Committee and
her family. She was honored to work in her chosen career with so many incredible
colleagues.
- - -
New Business
Solar Energy Installations on School Roofs
After a brief recess, Mayor Koch made a motion to suspend the Superintendent’s
Report and take the agenda out of order and proceed to item V.A., Solar Energy
Installations on School Roofs. Mr. McCarthy seconded the motion and on a voice
vote, the ayes have it.
Mr. Walker spoke about the City's ongoing efforts to improve energy efficiencies,
including purchasing streetlights, replacing bulbs, and the installation of new
Montclair Elementary School windows. Reducing energy use in buildings reduces
costs and so the installation of solar panels is being explored for all public
buildings. Dr. David Kelley and Mr. David Cohen then presented on their work
helping the City of Quincy to develop a solar power program. The program goals
for solar power are to provide long-term attractive energy pricing by taking
advantage of federal and state incentives and to allow for the city to become more
green with zero capital investment. An RFQ has been issued and thirteen
contractors have responded. Once a vendor is chosen, a Power Purchase
Agreement will be negotiated and several steps followed for installation and
registration for each school site. There are different installation options for roof
arrays and the installation does not impact the roof. There will be educational
opportunities for student learning, including weather monitoring and guest
speakers.
Mrs. Lebo asked how many schools were potential candidates. All of the schools
were evaluated, along with all of the city's public buildings. School buildings are
the best candidates because of their roof sizes and the number of schools will be
dependent on the vendor chosen. Mrs. Lebo asked if the condition of the roof
would make a difference and Mr. Kelley agreed that each roof will be structurally
reviewed and newer systems would be best. Solar arrays actually protect the roof
and extend the life of the roof system. Because the solar array is a ballast system,
it can be moved aside in case of a leak or other structural issue. Mrs. Mahoney
asked for a copy of the presentation and for clarification that the solar power will
not be used to power specific buildings. Mr. Kelley explained that it is an energy
offset. Mrs. Mahoney asked if it will help with gathering information on
individual building consumption and Mr. Kelley agreed. He also pointed out that
during the summer, when school isn’t in session, the solar power arrays will
continue to generate energy credits.
Mr. McCarthy asked about the visibility of the solar array in neighborhoods; Mr.
Kelley said that they would blend into the rooftops and since most schools have
flat rooftops, it makes them ideal candidates. Mr. McCarthy asked for clarification
that the Custodial or Maintenance staffs would not have to be involved and also for
a timeline for installation. Mr. Walker said that since bids have been received, the
next steps are selecting a vendor and negotiating a contract. Dr. Kelley said that
once the contract is negotiated, National Grid will approve the project within 3-4
months. For smaller buildings, these may be operational by late Fall or early
Winter. Larger buildings could take through the winter into the spring of 2014.
Mrs. Hubley asked for clarification on how the ballast system works. Dr. Kelley
said that the arrays are linked together by chains and are anchored by concrete
blocks; the system is engineered for the wind generated by being near the ocean.
No maintenance needed for snow or rain.
Ms. Isola asked if it was typical that the length of the agreement was 20 years and
if there any contingency for upgrades if technology improves during the life of the
contract. Dr. Kelley said that if it is an incentive to the contractor, they would
install newer equipment. Mr. Cohen said that the panels remain efficient for long
periods of time.
Mrs. Lebo made a motion to move this item into the Facilities and Security
Subcommittee. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Hubley.
On the motion, Mr. McCarthy asked to clarify what the move into Subcommittee
would be for. Mrs. Lebo amended the motion to move forward with the concept of
solar arrays on school building and move the concept into the Facilities and
Security Subcommittee for further discussion. On the motion, Mr. McCarthy
asked that adequate prior notice be given so that school abutters could have a voice
in the process. Mr. McCarthy seconded the motion and on a voice vote, the ayes
have it.
- - -
Reports of Subcommittees
Continuing with the agenda out of order, the School Committee moved to item
VIII. B. on the Agenda, the report of the Central Building Committee.
Central Building Committee
Mrs. Mahoney reported on the meeting held on Monday, June 10 that consisted
of a walkthrough of the new Central Middle School site. Mrs. Mahoney noted that
a new construction update had been distributed and that Mr. Jay Edwards from
H.V. Collins was present to speak to the project schedule. Mr. Edwards said that
the outside building envelope is almost totally closed, and the building is being
finished from the third floor down.
Mrs. Lebo said that this is a really tight timeline. Mr. Edwards said that this is his
company's fourth middle school and both project superintendents are confident that
the school will be finished on time with quality ensured. Mayor Koch thanked Mr.
Edwards. He noted that the City is repaving St. Ann’s Road and Old Colony
Avenue in conjunction with the project. Mrs. Mahoney asked for clarification that
gym, auditorium, and mechanical areas will be ready by September 5. Mrs.
Mahoney asked if teachers would be able to be in the building in mid-August, but
Mr. Edwards said that would be closer to August 29. Mrs. Mahoney said that all
are anxious and excited about getting the building completed and ready for the
school year.
- - -
Old Business
Community Service Update
Mr. McCarthy made a motion to move to item IV. B., the
Update next. Mrs. Hubley seconded the motion, and on a voice vote, the ayes have it.
Dr. DeCristofaro introduced Mr. Shaw, Ms. Ginty, and Mrs. McMillen for their final
update on the first year of the Community Service Pilot. Mr. Shaw complimented
Ms. Ginty and Mrs. McMillen for their hard work on launching this pilot, it has
come very far since last fall. Mrs. McMillen expressed her thanks for the
opportunity to connect with students on a different level; high school students reap
the benefit of the lessons outside the classroom. With the cooperation of the
greater Quincy community, students rose to the challenge and did a great job. For
both high schools, Grade 10 and 11 students total over 1300 students. 70%
completed and documented 10 hours of students. Another 6% completed some,
but not all 10 hours of Community Service. Almost 15,000 hours were completed
for 85 organizations; 20% completed well over the requirement, some as much as
100 hours. Many students volunteered at middle and elementary schools, Cleaner
Greener, and the Walk for Hunger. Of the students who did not comply with the
Community Service requirement, more than 50% were students who were failing
one or more subjects.
Some of the challenges and concerns at both high schools include whether students
can utilize the summer to catch up on this year’s hours; will we include restriction
on graduation participation during the pilot; and will the Incomplete remain
permanently on student transcripts. Mrs. Lebo said that the School Committee is
very proud of both the Community Service Coordinators and their incredible
efforts. She expressed concern about the population that has not completed
Community Service and feels that if the pilot continues, it must have
consequences. Mr. Bregoli said that there has been a great improvement in the
completion rate since the Subcommittee meeting several weeks ago and agrees that
this summer should be used as a catch up.
Mrs. McMillen said that the deadline for completion has been extended to June 24
and forms are still coming in. Ms. Ginty said that paperwork continues to arrive
daily. Mrs. McMillen said that every student who hasn’t completed the
requirement got a letter in homeroom yesterday and there has been a flurry of
activity. Dr. DeCristofaro thanked all and noted that we will be looking at ways to
make this task more workable next year in terms of scheduling. Dr. DeCristofaro
noted the research completed by Ms. Owens with other school systems and some
of the information shared about their structure and support for getting to 100%
completion. Mrs. Lebo asked to confirm that we are continuing the pilot with the
same students, moving to Grades 11 and 12. Mr. Bregoli noted that we will
continue to monitor the pilot and that the team would be asked to come to a fall
Policy Subcommittee meeting to report. Ms. Isola thanked the Community Service
team for their Policy Subcommittee presentation and all of their work.
- - -
Mayor Koch made a motion to return to the regular order of the agenda. Mrs. Hubley
seconded the motion and on a voice vote, the ayes have it.
Superintendent’s Report (resumed)
Superintendent DeCristofaro resumed his report, noting that State Treasurer Steve
Grossman visited North Quincy High School and Quincy High School on Monday,
June 3 to discuss Financial Literacy with students and staff. DESE approved the
recently-submitted three-year Technology Plan. The first annual Student Athlete
Summit was held on June 11 and was attended by 115 students from both high
schools. The event was developed in partnership with the YMCA and Quincy
Medical Center. The many positive evaluations gave suggestions for additional
areas to cover in subsequent years.
Spring tournament teams included the Quincy High School Girls Volleyball and
Tennis teams and North Quincy High School Boys Volleyball. Through the
Massachusetts School Building Authority's Accelerated Repair Program, new
windows will be installed at the Merrymount and Wollaston Elementary Schools
and North Quincy High School. The Sterling Middle School Statement of Interest
will be reviewed at an MSBA Board Meeting in November.
Mayor Koch made a motion for Dr. DeCristofaro to represent Quincy Public
Schools on the Board of the South Shore Educational Collaborative. Mr.
McCarthy seconded the motion and on a voice vote, the ayes have it.
Dr. DeCristofaro updated the ongoing Security Initiatives and noted that the
Montclair Elementary School work is completed with new locks and doors
replaced. Creation of photo identification for all employees is in process, with the
goal of these being ready for the new school year.
For Educator Evaluation, the proposed model contract language to be reviewed at
the Quincy Education Association meeting on June 19. Training begins with
consultant West Ed next week, over 100 district and school personnel will attend.
Technology training to follow next fall.
Upcoming Quincy Public Schools events include Flag Day on June 14 at Clifford
Marshall; the Coddington Building Renovation Kickoff on June 18; and the
Citywide Band Concert on June 19 at Quincy High School.
- - -
Old Business (resumed)
Mr. Bregoli made a motion to take the Revised Equal Opportunity Employment and
Education Policy off the table. Mrs. Hubley seconded the motion and on a voice vote,
the ayes have it.
Revised Equal
Opportunity Employment and Education Policy
Mr. Bregoli made a motion to accept the Revised Equal Opportunity Employment and
Education Policy as presented. Mrs. Hubley seconded the motion and on a voice
vote , the ayes have it 7-0.
- - -
New Business
Dedication of Flagpoles at Faxon Field and Gym at Central Middle School
Dr. DeCristofaro introduced the topic of dedicating the flagpoles at Faxon Field
and the gymnasium at the new Central Middle School. Mayor Koch made a motion
to move the discussion of naming the Faxon Field flagpoles in honor of Lou Tozzi
Geoff Hennessy, and Christopher Kennedy into the Policy Subcommittee.
Mr. Bregoli seconded the motion and on a voice vote, the ayes have it.
Mr. Bregoli made a motion for the Policy Subcommittee to consider dedicating the
gym at the new Central Middle School in the name of Mike Cassali, Physical
Education teacher at Central for 27 years. Mr. Cassali was a guidance counselor at
several elementary schools, a coach and mentor to many, many students. Mr.
McCarthy seconded the motion and on a voice vote, the ayes have it.
- - -
FY2014 Budget
Dr. DeCristofaro reviewed the FY2014 Budget process: the subcommittee meetings,
the Public Hearing, and the presentation to City Council. Mrs. Lebo made a motion to
approve the FY2014 budget as presented; Mr. McCarthy seconded the motion. On
the motion, Mrs. Mahoney asked Mayor Koch to restate his commitment to reinstate
the $200,000 to the text and learning budget. Mayor Koch said that moving $200,000
to Athletics will cover the structural deficit, and the additional $200,000 needed to
fund this year's text and learning purchases will be provided from other resources.
On a roll call vote the ayes have it, 7-0.
Mayor Koch thanked Ms. Isola for her leadership during the budget process.
- - -
FY2013 Budget Transfers
Mr. Mullaney presented the requests for line item transfers to cover deficits from
accounts that had surpluses. Transfers are needed to cover Special Education
Transportation and Legal Fees, Electricity, and Screening & Medical Expenses. In
addition, savings in Professional Salaries and Special Ed tuitions will fund the
purchase of new High School Math Textbooks.
Mayor Koch made a motion to transfer line item funding as presented. Mr.
Bregoli seconded the motion and on a roll call vote the ayes have it, 7-0.
- - -
School Committee Goal Setting 2013-2014
Ms. Isola reviewed the list of items completed in Subcommittee over the course
of the 2012-2013 school year and asked that it be posted online. She proposed the
Goal Setting meeting be held on Wednesday, September 18. Mrs. Lebo is concerned
that the Superintendent and School Committee goals should be finalized so that
Teachers’ goals are based on those so September 18 may be too late. Dr. DeCristofaro
said if this is the case that a summer meeting could be held. Mrs. Lebo suggested it
could be an Ad Hoc meeting.
- - -
Gift: American Flags
Mayor Koch made a motion to accept the gift of 5' x 8' American Flags for each
school building donated by the National Association of Government Employees.
(NAGE) Mrs. Lebo seconded the motion and on a voice vote, the ayes have it.
- - -
Communication
Mrs. Mahoney suggested utilizing Elder Services to assist with transporting elderly
guests at future graduations.
- - -
Reports of Subcommittees
Budget and Finance Subcommittee
Ms. Isola reviewed that a Budget and Finance Subcommittee meeting was held on
Wednesday, May 29, 2013. Mrs. Hubley made a motion to approve the minutes of
the Budget and Finance Subcommitee meeting from May 29, 2013. Mr. McCarthy
seconded the motion and on a voice vote, the ayes have it.
- - -
Adjournment
Mayor Koch made a motion to adjourn at 10:00 p.m. The motion was seconded
by Mr. Bregoli and on a voice vote, the ayes have it.
Mrs. Lebo thanked the School Committee for continued professional collaboration.