Farmington River Regional School District
Meeting #233 - Farmington River Elementary School
555 North Main Road, Otis, MA 01253
Monday, October 6, 2008 – 7:00 PM
MINUTES
Members Present: Patrick Barrett, Laurie Nikituk, Roberta Sarnacki, John Skrip, Anita Weinstein, Jane Gleason, Jo Ann Austin.
Guests: Carol Blakeslee, Mike Saporito
Call to Order: Laurie Nikituk called the meeting to order at 7:09 PM
Approval of Minutes of Meeting #233: The Minutes of Meeting #233 were approved as submitted. Moved Anita Weinstein, Seconded Roberta Sarnacki. Voted- Unanimous.
Approval of Minutes of Executive Session: The Minutes of the Executive Session were approved as submitted. Moved Anita Weinstein, Seconded Roberta Sarnacki. Voted-Unanimous.
DOE CPR Report: Mike Saporito, Director of Student Services, reviewed the special education portions of the Coordinated Program Review conducted every six years by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. He noted areas of commendation and addressed the programs that received a partially implemented rating. Superintendent Austin reviewed the civil rights and regular education areas and indicated our response and corrective action plan will be sent to DESE shortly.
E-Mail Protocol: Superintendent Austin explained the reasons for establishing this protocol, which includes proper e-mail etiquette and the fact that e-mails are public record. In addition she provided a brochure explaining the Open Meeting Law.
Protocol for Reporting Abuse or Neglect: Superintendent Austin shared the protocol developed to create procedures for staff to follow in reporting cases of suspected abuse and neglect.
Snowplowing Proposals: Jane Gleason indicated that we do not have to solicit bids for snowplowing services and asked the Committee if they still wished to do that and suggested that we solicit proposals with a two-year option. Proposals will be presented at the November meeting.
FY09 Financial Recap: Jane Gleason provided an update on our financial status for FY09.
Minutes of Meeting #234 – Page 2
Paraprofessional Compensation: Jo Ann Austin presented a question that was brought to her regarding compensation for a paraprofessional substituting for a teacher. Discussion followed on the specifics of this issue. Jo Ann Austin and Jane Gleason will explore this issue further.
Transporting Out-of-District Students: Jane Gleason indicated that we have received a request to allow a Lee student attending Berkshire Hills RSD to ride on our bus traveling through Lee. Discussion followed and Jane Gleason was asked to clarify liability issues with the bus company and our attorney. An update will be provided at the November meeting.
Other Business: John Skrip indicated that he will be attending the first Regional Council meeting on October 16th. He asked if anyone had any concerns or issues they would like him to address.
Jo Ann Austin indicated that we have had several requests from community organizations to use our building. We need to coordinate staffing to facilitate entry to the building.
Motion: To adjourn the meeting at 8:45 PM. Moved Pat Barrett, Seconded John Skrip. Voted Unanimous.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane E. Gleason
Assistant to the Superintendent
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