Meeting called to order at 7:20 PM 

Attending:  Fiona Canavan (BMMS & Central), presiding; Barbara Isola (NQHS); Roseann Russell (QHS); Linda Kelly (NQHS); Susan Bill (Central AP); Marybeth Dooling (Bernazzani); Deirdre Durkin (BMMS &QPAC); Paula Smith (PW); Tracey Christello  (BKS); Susan Molloy (BKS); Michelle Harty (Bernazzani); Mary Rose Bohone (LH/Della Chesia); Corinne Kimmell (LH/Della Chesia); Maureen Lynch (Merrymount); Deirdre Small (Squantum); Ann Mariano (Montclair). 

We welcomed Richard O’Brien, Assistant Superintendent for School Operations and Assessments.  Mr. O’Brien explained that Superintendent DeCristofaro restructured the responsibilities previously assigned to Dr. Mariano and changed the position’s name to better define the responsibilities Mr. O’Brien will assume.  Most significant is that Colleen Roberts takes full charge of hiring academic personnel. 

For Mr. O’Brien, the “Operations” role involves overseeing about 85 teams throughout the system. Teams set specific, limited, reachable goals and define action steps to attain those goals.  The teams with their members, meeting schedules, and goals are included in the QPS District Improvement Plan.

The “Assessment” part of Mr. O’Brien’s job involves developing, implementing, and reviewing procedures and tests to ensure that students from pre-K through 12 are meeting academic expectations.  He stated that QPS is trying to eliminate some tests that are unnecessary or redundant and is developing in-house tests that will help identify students requiring remedial help or courses sooner than would be indicated by the MCAS results received in late fall.

Mr. O’Brien addressed the state’s change in MCAS which now requires high school students scoring in the “needs improvement” range (220-240) in Math or English Language to take additional instruction in the subject with an Educational Proficiency Plan defining that instruction, and to be tested (state or in-house testing not yet determined) again before receiving the competency approval required to graduate.  Parents expressed much concern about this further burden on students who have difficulty testing, on students with talents in other subjects, and on administrators.  In response to a question about the economic impact of administering MCAS, Mr. O’Brien said that although no data have been gathered, the amount of time spent by principals and administrators is substantial and that mailings alone likely cost $5-6,000.  Parents discussed the lack of understanding or awareness of the MCAS process and the ongoing changes that often catch us by surprise, often only when our own children are affected.  It was suggested that elementary grade parents get MCAS information annually at their schools (some currently do so).  Parents also suggested that any response or reaction to the MCAS requirements needs to be voiced to state level elected officials.

Asked about the status of the “Gifted and Talented” program review committee, Mr. O’Brien explained that a more manageable team was formed and has brainstormed possibilities, which include better identifying “advanced” and “gifted” students and offering a program at all middle schools. Estimated budget for staffing, professional development, and materials would be needed. The team will present an outline of suggestions to the School Committee, which has the issue in its Policy Sub-committee.  It was noted that middle school principals also have submitted a proposal to the School Committee.  Parents discussed the lack of information available to elementary parents about the ELC and APC programs and the testing and selection process.  Mr. O’Brien suggested that Citywide consider presenting to the administration this need and suggestions for informing parents about the programs.

In response to a question about the 5^th grade to middle school technology instruction that Dr. DeCristofaro told us about in October and that is not happening at Lincoln Hancock, Mr. O’Brien noted that there is not a full time teacher available and that he did not know why or how schools were selected, but he would find out and let us know.

February meeting’s minutes were approved.

Treasurer’s report – Handout distributed and approved. 

SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING REPORTS

 February 27th

Tracey Cristello reported that the Middle School jazz band performed.  A report on the after school music programs was presented. 

Draft of 2008-2009 school calendar was handed out.  Questions about classes to be held on Election Day.

Noted that in case of rain, NQHS graduation will be held in the gym.

37 cases of meat were destroyed as part of the national recall.

Spring Prep for Success programs was described.

Rich O’Brien discussed changes in MCAS and the new Educational Proficiency Plan requirements.

Assessment of Pre-K programs was presented.

OLD BUSINESS

Citywide was told that NQHS parents were informed at their PAC meeting that the intercoms on the 4^th floor, (location of science labs) do not work.  A lengthy discussion in which parents expressed concern about the safety of students and, more so, the fact that apparently Ken McPhee has been aware of this problem but specifically told us in February that only LH, Sterling, and Snug Harbor have non-working school intercom systems.  Further discussion raised concerns about other “run-arounds” when questions are asked about procedures or fixing problems involving security.   It was agreed that Fiona Canavan would write a letter to Supt. DeCristofaro with copies to Ken McPhee, Mike Ryan, and Nick Puleo stating Citywide parents are very concerned about the lack of security in buildings and we are disturbed that members of the administration have not been forthright in discussing our concerns.

NEW BUSINESS

Voted to donate $200 to Quincy High and North Quincy High Senior Stay-out Nights.

Agreed to include names and schools of representatives present at meetings in the minutes.

Meeting Adjourned 9:05 PM.