New Windows at Day and Robinson Schools On Budget and On Schedule

The following is Part Three of a transcript of the Nov. 18, 2013 Westford School Committee meeting. 

9:37 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. (1:35:46 to 1:43:22)

Keele provided an update on the school budget, stating that Town Manager Jodi Ross’ proposed school budget will likely be is comparable to the school district’s requested budget.

He then transitioned to Westford Academy principal Jim Antonelli who presented information on the Bridge Program, which aids students returning to school from severe head injuries.

For Fiscal Year ’15, Antonelli requested $12,500, with an expectation of $9,600 of that to be used if current trends remain level.

Keele asked Antonelli where tutoring occurred with returning students, with Keele saying it is happening within the building and tutors involved in the program are excited to be part of the program, working closely with the guidance department.

Antonelli indicated that the guidance department also appreciated the program, as it helped lift a burden off them to refocus more on student college preparation.

Murray told Antonelli that restraints should not be focused on budgets but student needs given to the importance of this program, saying any investment would pay off.

Benoit asked for a contingency just in case additional funding was needed as it was a new program and it may be difficult to project needs.

Antonelli then answered a question from Ryan indicating that the program is funded by the Westford Academy trustees.

Kohl asked where the rate of injuries was compared to previous years, with Antonelli saying the school was on pace compared to previous years.

9:45 p.m. to 9:49 p.m. (1:43:22 to 1:47:23)

Francis then discussed a request for 4/10ths of a new ELL teacher position, showing a chart with a rise from 2005 in ELL students from approximately 30 to approximately 50 now.

She then described the various levels of ELL students, saying that along with the rise in ELL students, their proficiency in English is now more varied.

Keele reminded the public that the Department has an obligation to educate every child and thanked Francis for the update.

9:49 p.m. to 9:57 p.m.

An update on the Day and Robinson School window upgrades was provided School Finance Director Kathy Auth.

Various parties related to the project have been involved in the project, with the look of the new windows expected to remain the same.

The next update for the Massachusetts School Building Administration will be sent on Dec. 4

Expected improvements include more light into buildings, increased ventilation and improved heating costs.

Despite tinted glass, shades would still be used.

There may also be some door replacements and there will be a canopy above a door at the Robinson School.

Currently the project is on-time and on-budget.

The committee then discussed reimbursement rates for the project, which may change for future projects, but not this project.

9:57 p.m. to 10:01 p.m.

Payroll warrants were approved and minutes were approved as amended. Murray abstained on approval of minutes for an executive session. There were no faculty resignations, the committee adjourned to a brief executive session requested by Superintendent Olsen.