SCHOOL COMMITTEE RETREAT
August 7, 2007
The School Committee held a retreat on Tuesday, August 7, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. in the School Committee Room, third floor, Town Hall. Chairman Wynn called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m.
Members Present: Karen Adelman Foster, Anne Blanchard, Dirk Coburn, Stephen Meyler, David Murphy, Rick Wynn, Anne LaPlace Zernicke
Members Absent: None
Others present: James Connolly, Superintendent of Schools
DISCUSSION OF SHORT-TERM PRIORITIES
Discussion was held about near-term operational needs. The committee and superintendent established the following as priorities:
a) Budget preparations for FY09, Fall town meeting, a potential override, each as necessary and appropriate.
b) Preparation of proposed budget cuts, if necessary, in the event that the recommended budget either fails approval at TM or if an override fails to pass.
c) Preparation of a detailed capital plan (physical property/facilities and technology).
d) Preparation of any additional materials or follow-up on any additional needs for the new high school project, as required and appropriate.
DISCUSSION OF TRANSITION PRIORITIES
A discussion was held about how best to smooth the transition to the next superintendent and/or interim superintendent. The committee and superintendent identified the following as needing to be communicated by Mr. Connolly to the next administrator (or interim), and to the school committee, if appropriate, in whatever form Mr. Connolly he feels necessary and appropriate.
a) Mr. Connolly’s evaluations of staff.
b) Areas of concern/recommendations on areas that may require immediate attention.
c) Analysis of relevant trends.
In addition, the committee and superintendent identified the following as transitional documents that should be made available in written form:
a) Statement of rationale for replacement/renovation of the NHS building.
b) Organizational chart, including job descriptions for all central office administrators and reporting relationships.
DISCUSSION OF LONG-TERM GOALS
A discussion was held about long-term goals. The committee and superintendent identified the following goal categories:
a) Finance/Budget
b) Facilities/Operations
c) Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment
d) Leadership/Professional Development
e) Communications/Community Support
f) Social & Emotional Development/Health
g) Special Education
At 9:30 p.m., Mr. Stephen Meyler moved to adjourn. Ms. Anne Blanchard seconded. It was unanimously approved.
Attest: ________________________________________ Karen Adelman Foster, Clerk
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