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At the April 2 School Committee Meeting there was a discussion of the High Rock School Improvement Plan and a Portrait of a Needham Graduate Presentation: 9-12 English & Social Studies. download packet > watch meeting > Superintendent Updates Recognition of school staff (Units C, D, E and Bus Drivers). The School Committee, thanked school staff members for all of their hard work and efforts in supporting our schools and students. (e.g, office administrative staff, bussing staff, nutrition services, bookkeepers, IT staff and more) Discussion ensued and committee members added their personal thanks for school staff. High Rock School Improvement Plan High Rock Speakers: Jessica Downey (High Rock Principal), John Cho (High Rock School Council Member) and his son Sam Cho, Eleanor Clark, and Venetia Bouchon and her father Vivil Bouchon (High Rock School Council Member) District Priorities and Corresponding High Rock School Goals (Roadmap for the next four years) District Priority: All students are drivers of their own learning. Corresponding High Rock Goals: Foster student agency, voice and choice in all aspects of learning Establish equity and culturally proficient practices across all students’ experiences. District Priority: All students experience integrative teaching and learning. Corresponding High Rock Goals: Develop common understanding and intentional opportunities for interdisciplinary learning. Embed SEL strategies and mental health supports across the school. Implement with fidelity Restorative Practices. District Priority: All students will learn and grow within adaptable environments. Corresponding High Rock Goals: Increase connections with businesses, organizations, and civic leaders to provide learning opportunities. Provide learning access and opportunity across all students’ experiences. District Priority: Infrastructure that supports needs of all students. Corresponding High Rock Goal: Participate in the middle school reunification project to ensure a smooth transition for students and staff. Voices of the Community: Current High Rock students provided their perspectives on the Advisory block they have in their day, which focuses on social awareness and healthy social emotional development. Activities are focused on teaching students how to come together as a community to collaborate, and to ensure everyone feels supported in the group. Students came up with slogans for High Rock and voted for their favorite. Each student will receive a pencil with the winning slogan. Parents of High Rock students shared their perspectives on the school and their children’s positive experience as students at High Rock. Questions and discussion from the School Committee members ensued. A common theme of the discussion is that High Rock is a special place from both the perspective of faculty/staff and the perspective of students/families and it should be a priority to retain the special community present at High Rock if/when the middle school reunification takes place. When the students were asked – if given a magic wand, what is one thing you would tweak at High Rock – the universal response was the opportunity for cohorts to cross mingle at some point during the day. Portrait of a Needham Graduate Presentation: 9-12 English and Social Studies Speakers from the High School: Stephen Plasko (History Department Chair), Patrick Gallagher (English Department Chair), Karen McCauley (English Teacher), Rosie Calland (History Teacher), and three students from the High School Discussion was focused on some of the interesting English and Social Studies programs that were developed in alignment with the Portrait of a Needham Graduate. 9IP Program Discussion Program Components: Pathway for students to learn in an interdisciplinary, collaborative and project based environment Opportunity to make connections between disciplines and develop a deeper understanding of the world around us There are 5 thematic Units of Study through the year and all courses relate back to these themes Unit 1: Observation and Patterns: How do we make sense of the work around us? Unit 2: Systems: How does the structure of a system relate to its function? Unit 3: Power and Influence: How does power create influence and how are we influenced by power? Unit 4: Disease: How, and why, have infectious disease outbreaks through history impacted groups of people differently? Unit 5: Revolutions: How have revolutionary ideas changed society? Students also do projects throughout the year to tie this learning together. Collaborative Interdisciplinary Projects Farming Project (ties all subjects together) Project Components: Students visit Natick Community Farm for a half-day experience Research history, ecology and nutritional value of crops Combine individual research with research of their team members to plan a sustainable farm at NHS Create a mathematical model for the cost of running the farm or graph of crop distribution (mathematical modeling) Designing a website for their farm (technological component) All of this relates back to the PONG skills that are at the core of the interdisciplinary learning model underpinning 9IP. Examples of the students' websites can be found in the packet. 2. Castle Design using quadratic functions (History and Math) 3. Disease + Equity (creating a documentary film on an infectious disease and its impact on different groups – all subjects) 4. Combined research paper on a historical revolutionary figure (History and English) 9-12 English and Social Studies Goals/Curriculum Structured to align student learning, approach and curriculum with Portrait of a Needham Graduate Learning opportunities that center students – prioritize their collaboration, foster student curiosity, empower their voice and expression of their ideas and learning Universal design for learning concepts incorporated into approach – allowing students to reflect on the strategic choices they are making with respect to their learning to foster growth in making independent choices to shape their own learning in the future Leverage student’s personal identities and voice as essential elements of purposeful inquiries Integrate technology and digital tools/resources Many of today’s students will have careers that haven’t been invented/envisioned yet – focus on flexibility, good judgment and responsible use with respect to digital assets and resources is a key focus Create a climate of inquiry – fluid process and something that gets revisited regularly Sample Projects/Initiatives Supporting Portrait of a Needham Graduate Goals: Partnership with League of Women Voters Aligns with the civics requirement for high school students and has benefited students greatly. Focus on learning about different types of advocacy, local government and related initiatives, etc. Culminates in a civics fair at Town Hall where over 200 NHS students present their advocacy projects to the public. Challenging the Single Story of Africa Historical narratives can be superficial in many ways and tell an incomplete story and can be destructive. Historical culture written in the western world regarding Africa has been particularly notorious for this particular problem. Students are challenged to consider these single stories and misconceptions embedded in them and learn to how challenge them to prove the single story is incorrect or inaccurate. They also work on projects where they think through ways they could convey their message to others. For example, one student group had the idea of making a podcast and built an fictional podcast program into which this single podcast would fit. Questions and discussion from the School Committee members ensued. School Committee Comments Tuesday April 9 is the Annual Town Election; encourage all eligible community members to vote. Needham Community Council recently had a successful fundraiser. A number of community members and students volunteer with NCC to help support community members in Needham. The next School Committee meeting will be Tuesday April 23 at 6:30pm.

At the March 19 School Committee Meeting there was a discussion of the Mitchell School Improvement Plan, Portrait of a Needham Graduate Presentation: 9-12 Math, and the NHS Student Advisory to the School Committee Report. download packet > watch meeting > School Committee Chair and Subcommittee Updates Chair Andrea Longo-Carter announced new School Committee appointments to various town committees School Wellness Advisory Council: Connie Barr Climate Action Committee: Michael Greis Pollard School Building project: Tamatha Bibbo (Pollard Principal) and Alisa Skatrud Superintendent’s Comments Dr Gutekanst welcomed students from the Mitchell School Fifth Grade Chorus to perform "True Colors" with teacher Laura Young and accompanist Christy Lau. Mitchell School Improvement Plan Mr. Bayse, Principal of Mitchell School, along with Gabrielle Olivera (Mitchell parent and college professor on the School Council) and Leo Helman (5th grader, school safety patrol and student council) presented the Mitchell School Improvement Plan FY 22-23: difficult staffing, academic, morale and culture led to these focused goals for improvement FY 23-24 Almost completely staffed this school year which has had a positive impact on morale and student services increased special ed funding, collected and used more data to inform instruction with district staff support. SEL Growth from increased FTE K-5. Tech has poorly affected older student behavior. Beginning in April, Mitchell piloting “Securely” on devices (PC software) that allows monitoring of what students are doing on their devices in the classroom, with immediate alerts to principal and counselors if concerning or unsafe behavior. Goals for next year: Foster Student Agency, voice and choice in all aspects of learning Provide learning access and opportunity across all students experiences Use student data cooperatively among teachers to help with an inquiry-based model for student and teacher growth Develop a Lab classroom model for the fall Gabriella Olivera shared some examples of how the Mitchell curriculum is meeting the Portrait of A Needham Graduate goals from a parent perspective. Independence and flexibility in thinking curriculum (math) student agency and feels more equitable. The increased staff has helped with taking better care of kids. "What I Need" (WIN) blocks for extra help, allows students to work with other students and teachers outside of their classroom Enrichment activities born in classroom travel outside (theater, 1st graders, Mr. Popper’s penguins - Peabody museum, 4th graders, learned about indigenous people) Battle of the books, 3rd-5th reading competitively. Continued work on responsive classroom MCAS met or exceeded all growth targets except science which they will focus on in future years. Leo Helman, current 5th grader spoke about his experiences at Mitchell. Highlights: from K-5th grade, loves his teachers! Kind staff, tight community. Inclusive spelling Bee. Met ST-MATH goal, dunked Mr. Bayes. Little red schoolhouse. Learned to be a good friend and how to pick friends who are kind. OK, to be unique. Go at your own pace, do your best work, and don’t fit in! School Committee engaged in a robust Q&A with the panelists on a number of topics including: supporting teachers and staff goal: Last year there was a lot of teacher burnout and low staff morale. Small groups for conversations with staff to talk about stress and burnout. Leadership 360 survey. Trying to gain traction to move values and expectations forward. Holiday party popular. Leo’s involvement in school safety patrol: open doors for kids and helps with bags from drop-off/pickup. Student council (every Friday is fun Friday, school store, money raised to support school) reorienting goals around the Portrait of Needham Graduate. Structural pieces difficult to gain traction. How can we better communicate to the community how complicated the day is for teachers/admins at school? Until the School rebuild, what are the biggest challenges? The hardest part of being at Mitchell is lack of space. Gym, cafeteria and classrooms are used for PE/Wellness, outdoor options are used as much as possible. Have created additional wellness lessons for days when bad weather keeps them inside. Offices are cramped and divided among many staff. Heating has been a challenge, new furnace in November, rotted steam pipes have been repaired regularly when steam leaks occur. However families and students are very fond of the current building's warmth and community. WIN Block/Intervention block, Mitchell initially piloted a few years ago in just two grades, increased to grades 1-5 this year. Each grade has WIN block three times a week for half an hour, all at the same time per grade, allowing creation of cohorts among the whole grade. Data gathering and flexible intervention cycle. Portrait of a Needham Graduate Presentation: 9-12 Math John Shea, chair of math at Needham High, and students Austin Williams (9th grade), Lacey Williams (9th grade), Aidan Williams (11th grade), presented on the NHS Math Program. They have made a lot of progress in incorporating the Portrait of a Needham Graduate into their Math competencies Math competencies incorporate into their curriculum -Building, Thinking Classroom Even prior to the PONG, they were trying different modalities and teaching practice to engage students with math and improve math education. Have worked with consultants to help with math engagement in the classroom. PONG competencies in Math Students work in randomly chosen groups to encourage them to work with others Students choose real life topics to analyze with math Resiliency doesn't mean you can't ask for help! Mistakes are celebrated because we can learn from them. Student reflection on learning and assessments Creating digital portfolios The Williams family discussed their experiences with Math at NHS: Communicators and Collaborators: good at getting other ideas to work together collectively. Helpful to be able to explain problems to others Empowered Learners - Digital Notebooks: Can support learning and navigate the digital world Teacher support and Quiz Corrections: Have the option of going to peers but teachers too, help build relationships. Quiz Corrections not only helps grades, but also helps actual understanding, promote collaboration with teachers and students School Committee asked many questions about the Math Program. Highlights of discussion: There is tension between traditional and new ways of teaching math. Teachers sometimes need persuasion in new strategies. Sometimes, students get frustrated because they feel like they can just use technology to solve problems. Goal is for students feel safe making mistakes, especially in the classroom. There is pressure to get good grades, but not understanding concepts at first is part of the growth process. Consistency around assessment practices between teachers A variety of different math levels are supported. Needham High School Student Advisory to School Committee Report The NHS Student Advisory to the School Committee presented an update on Class activities. Freshman: Class selection process. Hoodies for sale. Comella's fundraiser. Bakesale. March 20/21 March Madness at school. Sophomore: Flash merch sale. Field trip to top golf. Parents Night Out April 27th Highschool Junior: Junior Harbor Cruise mid-May: The ticket price increased, and sales are going well. NHS students are creating new merch for their senior year. NHS students took the SAT at Needham High on March 9. They are preparing for AP testing & junior research projects. Senior: Future decisions, college commitments. Raising funds. Flamingos on people's yards. Prom ticket sales. Chaperones for dances. At large updates: Don't want Semi Formal, low attendance, will try to reintroduce in a few years Policy discussions: Attendance, wellness requirement, library sign-ins Working to improve communication through Needham News Approve Student Opportunity Act Plan Dr Gutekanst discussed the Student Opportunity Act Plan. This provides $30-40 per student minimum aid (in addition to chapter 70 funds) per legislative action from Governor Baker. The state asks how will you use funds to move student learning forward? Needham's plan report is due April 1 and needs to be approved by the School Committee. Document can be found in the packet. Approved 7-0-0 Approve Creation of Transportation Reimbursement Fund Dr. Gutekanst introduced the Transportation Reimbursement Fund which would allow the School Committee to reallocate leftover dollars to transportation needs. Chapter 198 Law, currently don't have extra funds but this creates the vehicle to allow for receiving funds in the future. Approved 7-0-0 The Next School Committee Meeting will be April 2nd at 6:30pm.

At the March 5 School Committee meeting, there was a discussion of the Superintendent Evaluation Process, the Sunita Williams School Improvement Plan and the NEF Winter 2024 Grant Awards. The School Committee postponed the Social Emotional Learning & Mental Health Framework/Restorative Practices presentation to a future meeting. download packet > watch meeting > Superintendent Evaluation Process: Happens annually typically towards the end of the school year. It is governed by the school committee policy AFB/CBG.  This is one of the most important duties of the School Committee. The evaluation is handled by the immediate past chair of the SC with also input of the SC current chair. The Superintendent is evaluated based on the DESE rubric for superintendents as well as against the goals that the SC set for him at the start of the school year. SC members will partake in 2 surveys this spring which are numerical ratings, in addition to providing freehand comments. Sunita Williams Elementary School Improvement Plan: Presented by Kiana Brunson, SWES Principal, joined by SWES School Council Members: April Crawford - Parent Representative, Joanie Daly - Community Member, Liz Hitron - Faculty Member, and SWES Student Council Members - 5th graders Andrew Taylor and Ella Travia Collaboration, Culture and Community are the three areas of focus which are driving our School Improvement Plan (SIP). This school improvement plan, as well as our school foci are well aligned, with The Portrait of a Needham Graduate (PONG). Sunita Williams Elementary School Foci #1, COLLABORATION: We will cultivate a school environment where students, faculty, and families actively embrace collaboration, fostering effective communication, respect for diverse perspectives, and shared responsibility for the both academic and social emotional success of our students. Connection to Faculty: Peer observations, learning walks within the grade levels followed by discussions and debriefing. Connection to Students: Students are encouraged to share ideas, listen actively to peers, and provide constructive feedback. Connection to Families: The SWES PTC supports our community with school-wide celebrations & events and opportunities for parent involvement. Sunita Williams Elementary School Foci #2, CULTURE: We want to deepen, share and celebrate the unique characteristics of the people that create and add to the culture of the Sunita Williams Elementary School. We aim to cultivate a school environment that embraces and celebrates the cultural diversity of its students, faculty, and families. We want to deeply explore the traits of our students, faculty, and families to gain a deeper understanding of the uniqueness of the who and what that contributes to our school culture. Connection to Faculty: We gain this connection by sharing, celebrating & recognizing our individuality, staff recognition in areas that reflect our school goals: Working Hard, Being Kind and Being Safe. Connection to Students: We continue to thread SEL practices throughout all teaching and learning experiences.  We also engage and explore student cultures and cultures of others in our community and beyond. Connection to Families: We reinforce our expectations of School and Family positive interactions, Ex. arrival and pick-up procedures & safety.  We also want to include families in our engagement and exploration of student cultures by hosting a Festival of Cultures event annually. Sunita Williams Elementary School Foci #3, COMMUNITY: We will foster open communication and collaboration between students, families, teachers, staff, and community members to deepen our sense of belonging to the Sunita Williams Elementary School Community. We will organize events and promote opportunities that bring together students, faculty, families, and community members to discuss and share, which will strengthen current relationships and help foster new relationships. Connection to Faculty: We broaden our sense of community by having focused and intentional use of professional development and collaborative time.  As well as a wonderful Sunshine Committee that plan faculty and staff outings, provide support when needed during a difficult time, and other monthly activities (parking spot raffle, special life moments celebrations etc.) Connection to Students: We have many community celebrations throughout the school year along with in-school assemblies to build school spirit and a sense of pride within our community. Our student council also provides opportunities to get involved with the Needham and Boston communities at large with projects of outreach or support. Connection to Families: The family events that we have are for our entire community.  We also have family educational meetings and events along with a faculty presence at our PTC community meetings.  This way ideas, thoughts and information can be exchanged. Student Council Members Andrew & Ella spoke about their experiences on Student Council and the success of their idea for 5th grade Hall Monitors in improving the safety of the afternoon dismissal process. They have recently recruited new 4th grade members to the student council. They also discussed other ways to incorporate student voice and ideas including their suggestion box and Spirit Week. To view all the slides of the Sunita Williams School Improvement Plan please see the packet, starting on page 15. The Needham Education Foundation 2024 Winter Grant Awards: The Needham Education Foundation (NEF) has awarded eight grants totaling $43,258 in its winter grant cycle. Detailed information can be found at the NEF website. Grants include: ISTE Conference Professional Development Opportunity: Technology Integration Specialists from Broadmeadow, Eliot, Mitchell, Newman, and Needham High School will attend the 2024 International Society for Technology in Education conference. Rubik’s Cube Mosaics: A set of Rubik’s Cubes to create mosaics using specific patterns, as well as both beginner and advanced versions of the Rubik’s Cube for exploration will provide an opportunity for High Rock students to participate in creative, engaging, and collaborative problem solving activities. 3D Printing Exploration: Two 3D printers will allow High Rock to explore how 3D printing can motivate students, connect to the curriculum, create engaging lessons, and empower students to become designers and creators using this innovative technology. Year-Round Book Clubs: The addition of contemporary, high-interest, grade-appropriate texts will support year-round, informal book clubs that meet briefly every Friday in all Pollard 7th grade ELA classes. Spanish Storytelling Workshop: All elementary Spanish teachers will attend a professional development workshop with educator Carolina Gómez to learn how to incorporate storytelling into language learning for grades K-5 across the district. Sensory Support Tools: All first grade classrooms at Broadmeadow will receive sensory-friendly seating options and therapeutic tools. Civil Rights: Bringing History to Life Performances of “The Right to Dream” by Living Voices, in addition to new high-quality, accessible, and diverse classroom reading materials about the Civil Rights Movement will support social studies and literacy integration for all grade 5 students across the district. Live theater and literature will enhance classroom ​instruction on the “Slavery, Civil War, and Civil Rights” unit of the new elementary social studies curriculum. Enrichment Programming: Educational enrichment activities will complement the tutoring program at the Needham Housing Authority facility on Captain Robert Cook Drive for their students who attend the Eliot, High Rock, and Pollard schools. These activities include a painter from Gorse Mill, musician David Polansky, a Jamaican storyteller, a historical reenactor, and field trips to the Larz Anderson Auto Museum and Worcester Science Center. The NEF reminds everyone that ANYONE can write a grant for the Needham Public Schools.  Please visit the NEF for more information on their grant applications and grant cycles. The School Committee voted unanimously to approve the NEF 2024 grant cycle winners. The next School Committee meeting will be Tuesday, March 19th.

At the February 27 School Committee Meeting there was a discussion of the Portrait of a Needham Graduate: Middle School Math, the Needham High School Improvement Plan, and the Needham High School Performance and Achievement Report. download packet > watch meeting > Superintendent’s Comments NHS Junior Vann Hotchkiss and Coach Adam Cole were recognized for winning the MA Division 1 State Diving Championship for the 2nd year in a row.  Vann outscored his closest opponent by more than 20 points. Portrait of a Needham Graduate Presentation: Middle School Math Presented by Borkeny Sambou, Middle School Math Curriculum Leader, Sarah Burns, 8th Grade Math and Data Science Teacher, Rachael Silver, 7th Grade Math Teacher, and 7th Grade students The middle school math curriculum integrates the principles of the Portrait of a Needham Graduate with the eight Standards for Mathematical Practices The Graphing City Project was just completed by 7th graders, and provided a way to increase the social and cultural awareness applications of math.  After completing the unit on graphing linear equations, students worked together to develop a city, including details about the culture of the city.  7th grade students presented the results of their project, including how they came up with their city and the math they used to plot their maps. Teacher Sarah Burns spoke about the Data Science curriculum.  This class provides students many opportunities to think critically, collaborate, and become empowered learners. The Big Numbers project allows students to work together to create a visual or physical representation of a big number.  This culminates in the class presenting to 4th graders across the district. The math curriculum is focused on both teaching mathematical competencies as well as teaching students how to approach and think through problems.  The teachers recognize that students have varying skill levels and backgrounds in math and differentiate to accommodate them all. Needham High School Improvement Plan Presented by Aaron Sicotte, Principal of Needham High School, Catherine Brandish, High School Senior and School Council Co-Chair, and Needham High School Council Members The current School Improvement Plan overlapped with the pandemic, but the school was still able to accomplish many of its goals. Catherine Brandish spoke about the Social-Emotional Learning aspects in place at the High School, including Own Your Piece/Peace and Mental health days.  Students appreciate the ability to take mental health days without being penalized or questioned. The High School has implemented many culturally responsive teaching practices, both in regards to recognizing the diversity among the students as well as highlighting diversity within the curriculum.  All staff heard a presentation from Cornelius Minor and have learned how to implement a lens of cultural relevance and its impact on students. Teachers have been successful in designing curriculum to meet the students’ needs The Interdisciplinary Learning program continues to grow and evolve The use of technology has expanded and shifted thanks to the pandemic.  Teachers no longer need to rely as heavily on technology as they did during remote learning, and are able to find ways to meaningfully use it in the classroom to support and enhance instruction.  The new amplification system in the building is supporting all those with hearing issues as well as those who may have attention issues.  Students are taught about responsible technology use and digital literacy Catherine highlighted the impact of the X-block and how students have found it to be extremely beneficial.  The overall schedule has been adjusted to try to best meet the needs of the students. Needham High School Performance and Achievement Report Principal Aaron Sicotte highlighted some of the academic as well as athletic, artistic, and co-curricular student accomplishments at the High School. Students have been highly successful in many areas, including music and the arts. The students helped organize the Pep Rally, which returned after 4 years and was highly enjoyable for all.  11th and 12 graders started the Pep Rally in the gym and then were joined by 9th and 10th graders on the fields, allowing all students to participate together.  The last time the full school was able to gather was in 2012, after which the student body outgrew the gym. NHS SALSA club focuses on preventing substance use and abuse.  It has over 200 volunteers, providing more than 1500 hours of service in the Needham Community Every student in every English class in the High School participated in the Poetry Out Loud competition, and the winner will represent the High School in the MA Regional Semifinals NHS has been honored as a Special Olympics Massachusetts Unified Champion School, recognizing the commitment of the staff and students to meaningful inclusion, advocacy, and respect. Senior Studio Art Students will be working with the town on an immersive “art walk” outside to highlight and focus on safety issues around crosswalks. The Jewish Student Union brought in a Holocaust survivor to speak to a group of students and staff, which was a meaningful, powerful experience for all.  The Asian Student Union celebrated the start of the Lunar New Year with an art installation in the school. The Class of 2024 collected 81 bags of clothing and shoes from NHS families this year, and in 3 years they have donated 320 bags of goods to Cradles to Crayons. The Speech and Debate team is very active.  1215 individual speeches given/debate rounds participated in by team members, and there are 12 national qualifiers. Students continue to perform very well on the ACT, SAT, and AP exams.  The full academic performance report is available here. School Committee Comments The class of 2024 is doing a fundraiser where they “flock” yards with plastic flamingos to raise money for the class.  Donations can be made on MySchoolBucks The League of Women Voters will be putting on a program about how town government works.  It will take place on March 20 at 6:30pm in the Broadmeadow Performance Center. Tickets are currently on sale for the HS production of Les Miserables, taking place March 8-10 The next School Committee meeting will be Tuesday, March 5, 2024.

At the February 6, 2024 School Committee meeting, there was a discussion of the School Improvement Plan for Pollard Middle School, as well as how wellness is addressed at the Needham Public Schools as a part of the Portrait of a Needham Graduate. download packet > watch meeting > Superintendent’s Comments Dr. Gutekanst expressed congratulations to Needham Fine & Performing Arts students, including: Middle School students for their recent performance of Frozen NHS music students going to All-State festival Elementary Honors Chorus sang National Anthem at recent Boston College hockey game Portrait of a Needham Graduate Presentation: Wellness Presentation by Denise Domnarski, Director of Physical Education, Health and Wellness; Jon Grant, High Rock Wellness Educator; Courtney Todesco, Pollard Wellness Educator; Cal Hammerstrand, Eighth Grade Student; Owen Hammerstrand, Eighth Grade Student highlighted: Program strengths and contribution to student well-being Importance of alignment with competencies of the Portrait of Needham Graduate Student perspective Panel gave overview of K-12 Wellness program: The presentation described how health and wellness is addressed at each school level with a focus on middle school. The panel spoke about middle school programming, physical and health education and experiential education: High Rock / 6th grade focus - physical wellness and social / emotional wellness Students engage in team challenges, reflection, decision making / solutions, evaluation, advocacy. Pollard / 7th and 8th grade focus -- skills-based approach to teaching and learning, empowering students to engage in creative thinking and problem solving, and become responsible and resilient individuals and empowered learners, communicators, and collaborators. 7th Grade Project - examination of e-cigarette / vaping influences. 8th Grade Project - public service announcement regarding substance abuse. Students reported to the School Committee about their projects Questions from School Committee elicited further discussion on points including: Sex education: Identity and sexuality, reproductive health and stereotypes are included in curriculum.  Curriculum focused on respect, inclusion. Providing developmentally appropriate lessons / collaboration (push in versus pull out). Teaching meditation, other stress reduction skills such as mindfulness. Self-management, self-care skills. Collaboration and leadership skills fostered in projects; team work in identifying strengths; how project-skills transfer to “real world.” Continuity of skills across middle school years. How Needham's curriculum compares to state standards.   We’re “checking all the boxes” but may re-frame scope/sequence in some areas. Pollard Middle School Improvement Plan Presentation by Tamatha Bibbo, Principal, and Pollard Middle School Council members discussed the school Improvement Plan Goals (All goals can be found in the packet) highlighting the following: School Goal 2.3 - Enhance tier 1, 2, & 3 Restorative Practices to ensure consistency across all aspects of the school community Tier 1 - Circles and Community Meetings: Involves what School is doing for all students.  Pollard uses Cluster Model - focuses on student finding own identity within whole school community, e.g., birthdays, shout outs.  Students learn how to be together, in a big group.  Also use Advisory Circles, almost every day, with different topics.  Advisory designed to meet student needs.  Purpose - to encourage students to understand and practice concepts of love and empathy for others.  Students see large group of teachers who are invested in them. Tier 2 - Small group focused on students who need more attention.  Councilors trained to help with peer conflict or any issues that students may wish to discuss in a small group.  Happens ad hoc. Tier 3 - Meant to repair harm Spoke about how School responds to suspensions - looking at a more restorative model for discipline; educational rather than punitive.  Focus is on prevention. Partnered with NEF for grant funding to enhance restorative practices.  Two staff members have developed modules for educational opportunity for students on Tier 3 discipline modules. No repeat behaviors so far (2 years of data) School Goal 1.1 - Foster student agency, voice and choice in all aspects of learning Seventh Grade ELA Book Clubs and One Book, One School Book clubs create culture of choice; students enjoy it and are engaged Clubs promote choice, improve reading stamina and increase student voice One Book, One School - whole school reads and engages in workshops, activities Students spoke about positive experiences with both Book Clubs and One Book, One School School Goal 5 - Enhance school-home communication and family/caregiver partnerships Parent / caregiver chats on Zoom for accessibility, monthly.  Have guests, topics for discussion.  50-100 attendees versus 10-20 in person.  Meeting is not recorded to preserve spontaneity. Introduced a newsletter, compilation of what’s going on in School.  Received 600 views.  Can be translated. Slide show given to students in advisory to show students what’s going on for the day. Pollard has a TV show, includes 40-50 students. School Committee Policies Presentation on revisions of Draft Policy UNDB-1 Revision 1 Staff Responsible Use of Digital Resources Committee discussed rescission of outdated policies; Committee did not vote. Action Items Approved Middle School and High School Programs of Studies Approved Fees for FY25 Revolving Funds: Preschool, Transportation, Community Education, Athletics and Nutrition Services The next School Committee Meeting will be February 27, 2024.

At the January 23 School Committee Meeting there was discussion of the Portrait of a Needham Graduate: Elementary Social Studies, an Athletic Department Report, and the 2024-2025 MS/HS Program of Studies. The School Committee also voted on the FY25 School Operating Budget Recommendation and IT Warrant Article. download packet > watch meeting > Superintendent’s Comments Dr. Gutekanst was a judge for the NHS Poetry Out Loud Contest. 10 finalists memorized and performed two different poems and the winner, Ben Fogler, will go to the State Finals. Merrett Hopkins finished 2nd and Isabella Barbera finished 3rd. Portrait of a Needham Graduate: Elementary Social Studies Brooke Kessel, K-8 Social Studies Department Head, along with Eliot 4th grade students and NPS teacher Brittani Laporte, presented about the Elementary Social Studies Program. They presented on the Investigating History Curriculum which is now being used throughout Grade 5 and piloted in Grades 3-4. Highlights: Curious students who ask their own questions about historical events Make sense of images, texts, and artifacts from the past. Connect their learning to real life issues and current events. Program has been well received by both teachers and students and is a well-funded and resourced curriculum. Well aligned with the Portrait of a Needham Graduate Goals Future Planning Athletic Department Report Athletic Director Ryan Madden and Assistant Athletic Director Richkaard Verrier presented about the Athletic Programs at NHS. Both are new to their positions this year. Their mantra is “For the Students, By the Students.” They have created a Student Athlete Leadership Team (SALT). Goal is to have consistency of good experiences throughout all the teams. They want to make sure there is acknowledgment of the hard work of all of the teams, not just celebration of the championship winners. Good sportsmanship is the priority. Graphic Design Club students have created new logos for Booster Club stickers. They are working on a branding book for consistency and uniformity among Needham colors and logos for next year. Actively seeking feedback from students and parents through student led surveys. Video of highlights of the last year shown during the presentation. The video was created by NHS Junior Nate Ross. AD Verrier visits Pollard frequently so students are aware of athletic opportunities at NHS. 2024-2025 Middle School/High School Program of Studies Aaron Sicotte, NHS Principal, Tamatha Bibbo, Pollard Principal, and Jessica Downey, High Rock Principal presented the proposed 2024-2025 MS/HS Program of Studies for School Committee to review. Some changes from previous years: Middle School ELL supports are outlined more clearly. 8th Grade students will have ELA choice electives. Updated World Languages to include American Sign Language in 8th grade, can also elect to take an elective Culture class. New HS course offerings: YA literature, Accelerated Jazz Band & new Jazz Lab course, Advanced Acting Study, Probability and Games, French 2 College Prep Course. Expanding IP program in 9th grade to include option to take one Accelerated class. NHS Course Selection for 2024-2025 due by March 15th. School Committee will review the Programs of Study and vote on them at their next meeting. Vote on the FY25 School Operating Budget Recommendation Dr. Gutekanst presented on the FY25 School Operating Budget Recommendation in the amount of $97,517,926 as submitted in the packet. Dr. Gutekanst noted that Town Manager Kate Fitzpatrick has amended the Town Capital Plan to include funds for the design work for Newman Auditorium in FY25 and construction in FY26. This is not part of the School Operating Budget. Passed with a 7-0-0 Vote. Vote on the IT Warrant Article Dr. Gutekanst presented a Warrant Article request for IT technology consolidation as discussed at last week's meeting. Passed with 7-0-0 Vote. The Next School Committee meeting will be February 6 at 6:30pm.

At the January 16th School Committee meeting, there was a public hearing on the FY25 Budget, a Discussion of the Apple Distinguished Schools Designation, a NHS Student Advisory to the School Committee Report, and a FY25 Budget Discussion: Information Technology/Warrant Article. download packet > watch meeting > Public Comments Chair, Andrea Longo Carter, reminded the public of what a public comment is and guidelines for making a public comment. Public Hearing on the FY25 Budget Dr. Gutekanst presented on the current draft FY25 Budget. Most of the budget increases go to providing level services and contract obligations. Special Education Programming – significant increase in out of district cost, 6.01% increase overall; Will need to fit within the town manager's overall budget. Increase in staffing – 9 new positions, some already filled due to need, will only continue if approved at Town Meeting Other ideas may be considered next Tuesday $176K in reductions: Reallocation of current funds Other goals will have to be deferred due to budgetary constraints as noted below: Public Comments on the FY25 Budget Hearing: Julia Goldman, senior at NHS and Lily Katz, a junior at NHS commented on the Performing Arts and the current needs for lighting and sound at both NHS & Newman. These deficiencies are not in line with the Portrait of a Needham Graduate Goals. Kathy Memory, 2 children Needham NHS & High Rock – Friends of Music Secretary – requests budget in order to reinstate Technical Director position to facilitate maintenance of equipment and locations. Auditoriums are for all, performing arts produce inclusiveness. Pollard new auditorium should be in the plan from start. Karen Firger – president of the Needham Education Association spoke in support of the FY25 budget request. School Committee Questions/Comments about the FY25 Budget: Elizabeth Lee inquired about the .2 FTE counselor reduction; Response: 1.8 counselors at Broadmeadow – counselor for Connections program, Creative scheduling of current resources. Michael Greis inquired about the postponement of purchasing another Bus; Response: an additional bus won’t be necessary, most likely for at least 2 years. Matt Spengler asked about Theatre and Arts deficiencies and bringing them up to benchmark, what is the status of the cut; Response: code compliance and $225K possibility of design work at Newman would then provide information to bring Newman – work would continue into 2025 and summer of summer 2026. Pollard feasibility study underbudget and will help with future. What is the impact of completion date by delaying? Newman remains the same – design work being considered in the next FY and construction work the following. High School undetermined. Consent Items Minutes of the of December 19th Meeting – Pulled from Consent items, will return at a later date FY24 Grant Approval - approved by unanimous consent New Grants High Quality Instructional Materials/ 185 $173,500 Comprehensive School Health Services $100,000 Special Education Circuit Breaker $3,024,710 Teacher Diversification/ 253 $23,729 Grant funds totaling $3,321,939. Apple Distinguished Schools Designation for Pollard and High Rock Chris Gosselin, Interim Director of Media and Digital Learning, joined by Jessica Downey, Tamatha Bibbo, Erin Mack, and Peter Alexopolous, presented on the recent Apple Distinguished Schools Designation for Pollard and High Rock. "Apple Distinguished Schools are centers of leadership and educational excellence that demonstrate Apple's vision for learning with technology -- and we believe they are some of the most innovative schools in the world." This Program is by invitation only, schools must meet qualification and eligibility requirements – it shows “leadership and educational excellence, with a clear vision for how technology-rich environments support learning goals”. The three pillars of the program are to “Inspire, imagine and Impact”. Videos presented here. Pollard and High Rock School have both been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School, the designation is for three years – 2023-2026. The designation will open doors with Apple for professional development and to partner with other schools. High Rock and Pollard are the only public schools in MA to have this designation and are now model schools for MA. Other districts are interested in learning about what we are doing here. Several staff members went to the Apple Leadership Academy in November 2023. In the future, they will continue to build capacity, work with Apple to take advantage of what this program has to offer.  Sharing within school community and continue to network. Needham High School Student Advisory to the School Committee Report Lea Gruen, Max Scott, Otis Tsingos, Zufash Khan, and Danielle Sockol gave an update on NHS. 9th grade - settling in well, innovative fundraising 10th grade - food drive across the 10th grade classrooms 11th grade – excited for 2nd half year. Bakesale, Chipotle fundraiser, Parents night out – to fund jr. harbor cruise 12th grade - Senior class fundraiser, flocked fundraiser, bake sale, for prom. At large updates- first pep rally in 4 years on Oct 27th, school spirit Homecoming dance was cancelled due to lack of expected attendance due to a conflict with football playoffs. Other opportunities being looked at: cultural fair, basketball game Policy changes Student Council is discussing: only 127 responses to anonymous survey – 2/3rd of those students want to increase to a 30 min tardy period, complaining that they are late to school due to traffic. concerns about parking lot safety – need for crossing guard outside of the lot. Students want to prioritize mental health with excused mental health days, want increased lunch options especially for special diets, gluten free, kosher, etc. FY25 Budget Discussion: Information Technology Reorganization/Warrant Article – Consolidation of services Dr Gutekanst presented on possible IT reorganization and a possible warrant article to submit to May Town Meeting. About a year ago the town experienced a staffing shortage. Due to this shortage, the school IT department helped to support the town's needs, keeping networks, services, and hardware running. This was birth of the idea to study the way we work. Consultant Plant Moran recommended consolidating IT with a Chief Technology Officer to oversee IT throughout the schools and town to streamline services, cybersecurity etc.  There are many services that already overlap with payroll and budgets. Dr Gutekanst is in support of this consolidation if it would be run by the School Department. He would not recommend outsourcing school needs to the town, as NPS departments are currently already providing these services. Will take a few years to make reality. Collective Bargaining agreements in place that would have to be considered. Practical matters of budgeting and locations will need to be sorted out. Changes would be primarily on the town side as school departments already have a robust Technology Department. Dr. Gutekanst recommends that the School Committee consider a Warrant Article for the May Town Meeting for an appropriation of $934,000 to provide for services and salaries for the first phase of this consolidation. SC will vote on this at the next meeting. School Committee Comments DEI performance in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day Housing event – MBTA multi-family zoning Meeting on January 18th Next meeting is January 23rd and will include vote on FY25 budget. Additional comments about the budget should be sent to School Committee via email at schoolcommittee@needham.k12.ma.us. The next School Committee meeting will be Tuesday, January 23 at 6:30pm.

At the January 2 School Committee meeting there was an FY25 Budget Consultation with the Town Manager, an Emery Grover Project Update, and an FY25 Budget Discussion: Instruction & Innovation. download packet > watch meeting> Public Comments An unidentified man spoke at length, questioning the legality of the Superintendent's attendance at the School Committee meeting, along with other complaints. Chairperson, Andrea Longo Carter suggested that the man could share his statement with the committee via email for their review. Craig Idlebrook, father of a Newman third grade student, spoke in support of a district wide racial literacy and hate speech curriculum. Chairperson, Andrea Longo Carter responded that district does have a racial literacy curriculum at the elementary school level and offered to supply more information. Superintendent’s Comments Dr Gutekanst wished the entire school community a Happy New Year. Reminded everyone of the upcoming budget hearing on January 16 at 6:30 at the Broadmeadow School. FY25 Budget Consultation with the Town Manager Kate Fitzpatrick, Town Manager, and Dave Davidson, Assistant Town Manager presented on the FY25 Budget, as it stands now. Overview of Capital Plan, balancing Health & Safety first and quality of life Regular and recurring capital (ie. Furniture and copiers) funded Shade structure and playground updates at the Newman recommended to be funded by a number of different sources; Eliot boiler; NHS tennis courts funded in a “creative way”; electric vehicle charging stations; one fleet expansion, tier 2 capital; code requirements in auditorium lighting and sound article, waiting to see if the Pollard portion could be associated with larger project; feasibility study for the MSBA Pollard; looking to fund help for Hank Haff as these large construction projects will require additional staffing Looking to FY25 & FY26 Federal funding from pandemic drying up, increasing uncertainty for the future Possible consolidation of IT teams from Town and Schools; wrapping up proposed funding plan in next two weeks and will report back Discussion of Newman auditorium renovation not being funded; possibly creating a further delay in project execution Discussion of rate of growth being less than previous years; expect 4% Discussion of NHS auditorium lighting and audio needs School Committee members expressed their appreciation for all the work that the town does to balance all the competing budgetary needs of the town. They also expressed concern about delaying the school auditorium renovations even further as clear deficiencies were found in the Sound & Lighting Study. Emery Grover Project Update Hank Haff, Director of Construction and Design, joined by committee member Michael Greis gave an update on the Emery Grover Renovation. Progress includes: all rectangular windows replaced, arched windows on order, exterior brick work complete; clockface restoration complete; electrical and data conduit installed underground Completion date will most likely be delayed and not fully ready for move-in before September; Superintendent and staff will likely start the year at Hillside and discuss the best time to move into the renovated Emery Grover. Major budget surprises included: brick work under each window rebuilt, structural engineer found voids (lack of grouting) in every brick wall, causing ~$900K change order to fill wall voids, funds came from contingency fund; durability of floors, needed additional support. There are contingency funds remaining, as they were under budget on Hillside work. Will not ask for additional funds. No major changes to layout and design, 95% layout as originally designed More photos of the renovation in progress can be found in the packet. FY25 Budget Discussion: Instruction & Innovation Dr. Carmen Williams, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and Innovation, Dr. Elizabeth Zajac, Director of World Languages, and Chris Gosselin, Interim Director of Media and Digital Learning presented on the budget requests for Instruction and Innovation. Dr. Zajac requested the following for World Languages: STAMP Assessment, Grade 11, an additional 63 students at $1442.70; American Sign Language, Grade 8, in order to continue to offer this program that for the two previous years was funded by an NEF grant, $16,065, inclusive of laptop cost. Mr. Gosselin requested 2 items: an upgrade to web content filtering software that would allow real time monitoring and reporting, enabling appropriate intervention with students in the moment, pilot for K-5 would be $20,000; Instructional Software license fee increase in order to maintain current service level for $4804, great savings by renegotiating current contracts. The cost could have been $15,000. Dr. Williams requested additional funding for Responsive Classroom training for teachers, one time cost to upskill current teachers and create a “Train the Trainer” pipeline to skill incoming teachers, $22,214 Dr. Williams also requested additional funds for state mandated reading screening, software would bring K-3 online (currently G3 is paper & pencil) and allows for better tracking and fully fund 6-8, $16,900 Dr. Williams requested funding for administrative support for Summer Programming in order to better coordinate planning and administration of the program across 5 departments and better liaise with parents, $10,000. The next School Committee Meeting will be Tuesday, January 16th at 6:30pm.

At the December 19 School Committee meeting, there was an FY25 Budget Discussion about Student Support Services. download packet > watch meeting > Public Comments Caren Firger, President of the Needham Education Association, read a letter to the Needham community in which she expressed the group’s disagreement with a recent Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) letter directed to the Biden Administration in regards to the Hamas-Israel war.  Copies of the letter will be provided to the School Committee. School Committee Chair and Subcommittee Updates Alisa Skatrud shared enrollment forecast information based on the 2020 Census. The results show a return to population growth over the next 15 years, with the primary driver being housing turnover and housing sales.  (Enrollment projections are presented in the packet). Superintendent’s Comments Dr. Gutekanst expressed his thanks to the families, staff and students for their response to schedule changes yesterday due to the storm and its effects on road conditions and safety. FY25 Budget Discussion: Student Support Services Mary Lammi, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, along with Stephanie Weinman, Interim Executive Director of Special Education, Tricia Mullen, HS Director of Special Education, and Jamie Singelais, Director of English Language Learner Education presented the details of the Student Support Services budget request.  (Full slide presentation available in the packet) Student Support Services plays a role in many important services in the district, including Special Education, Counseling Services, METCO, Health Services, English Language Education, Home Hospital Tutoring, and educational stability for students in foster care of homeless situations. The percentage of students enrolled in Special Education has remained stable and is below the state average. Health is the largest enrollment category, encompassing students who have ADHD and other medical related issues that impact their education. Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) in English, Reading, Writing and Math is the second largest category. Almost 80% of Special education students are in full inclusion programs, in which support services may work with students in the classroom or bring them out of the classroom for different levels of support. Related services include deaf/hard of hearing services, counseling, speech therapy, behavior support plans. Specialized programs include Intensive Learning Centers from preschool through high school for students with Autism and Complex Learning profiles, Connections and Pathways Therapeutic Programs for students with significant emotional challenges, and the Post Graduate Program in the High School for students age 18-22 to learn life skills and vocational training. Out of District Programs include Collaboratives and Approved Special Education Private Day Schools and Residential Programs. ELL student enrollment has been fairly steady over the last few years, and numbers change throughout the school year as students move into the district. An increasing number of students are starting at a beginner level of English. Every year ELL students are evaluated to see if they are ready to exit the ELL program based on DESE exam scores. After exiting the program, students are monitored for 4 years as per state guidelines. About 40 students exit the program each year. DESE estimates that students develop language and exit from supports in about 5-7 years and has standard targets to assess if students are progressing as expected. Social language develops first and academic language takes longer to develop. About 70% of Needham students are reaching these targets every year, well above the state rate of 38%. The district participated in a DESE review last year and was assessed on 12 criteria. DESE identified 3 areas in need of correction, and responding to these needs for increased staff and interpreter services contribute to the current budget request. Budget request includes increased FTE staff to meet increased needs in the ILC and other Special Education & ELL needs. They also highlighted such programs as Best Buddies, Unified Basketball and the Seal of Biliteracy, phone line interpreter services. Next steps in the Budget Process: Jan 2 - Town Manager will be at the SC Meeting to consult on the budget. School Committee and Finance Committee liasons will meet that morning. Jan 16 - Public hearing for the budget Jan 23 - School Committee vote on budget The next School Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday January 2, 2024 at 6:30pm.

At the December 12 School Committee Meeting, there was a discussion of the School Facilities Master Plan Update and the Superintendent's FY25 School Operating Budget Request. download packet > watch meeting > School Facilities Master Plan Update: The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) staff has recommended Needham into the eligibility period for the Pollard Middle School Project, contingent on a vote by the MSBA Board on 12/13/23. This is the first step in a potential MSBA partnership. MSBA partnership would mean that the State will share in the Pollard Project cost (MSBA contributed roughly 20% of total project costs for Sunita Williams). Issues/Concerns at Pollard Middle School that need addressing: Undersized classroom & core spaces; Fully occupied modular classrooms are at the end of their useful life Health & safety: not fully sprinklered, ongoing plumbing issues, lack of communication systems, HVAC/air quality, underpowered electrical system, undersized kitchen/servery ADA non-conforming: doors, narrow stairwells, bathrooms, lecture hall, auditorium 30% Threshold limits ability to sustain building without triggering comprehensive upgrades (ADA, sprinkler, seismic, energy code, etc.) A comprehensive assessment was done in 2020 to assess infrastructure, educational programming and classroom capacity needs at elementary and middle school levels. School Master Plan Findings: Significant building & programming space deficiencies at Pollard and Mitchell Overcrowding & programming space deficiencies at High Rock Additional elementary classrooms needed to meet enrollment forecasts School Master Plan Overview: Project #1 – Pollard Middle School - Renovate & expand Pollard for Grades 6-8, maintaining benefits of High Rock in combined 6-8 building Project #2 – Mitchell Elementary School -Construct new 3-section/grade Mitchell School - Students move to vacated High Rock School during construction Open High Rock as 6th Elementary School School Master Plan Estimated Cost: Pollard Project: $313.9M Gross Project Cost -Making the assumption of MSBA participation at the same rate as the Sunita Williams Elementary school project of ~20% of total project costs, MSBA participation equates to $62M cost savings to Needham taxpayers Mitchell Project: $147.6M (no MSBA participation, worst case) High Rock Modifications: $0.4M (not eligible for MSBA funding) Total Gross Master Plan Cost: $462M (or approximately $400M with MSBA participation in Pollard project only) This multi-year project will require the support of Town Meeting and the whole Needham community. To learn more about the upcoming Master Plan/Pollard Project: The NPS website will post updates as the project gets underway. You can also email the school committee at: schoolcommittee@needham.k12.ma.us with any questions. Over the next few years there will be many information sessions/forums for parents, Town Meeting members, community groups, Pollard neighbors. You can e-mail the School Committee if you would like a member to come to speak about the project to a community group you are involved in. Superintendent’s FY25 School Operating Budget Request Key factors driving the development of a budget request to support the NPS in 2024-25 (FY25) Enrollment: School enrollment is down from 2019-20 but continues to grow back to pre-pandemic levels; we expect 5,560 PreK-12 students in 2024-25, up about a dozen students. Inflation: The State continues to raise special education tuition rates to an unprecedented level; district supply costs have increased. Salaries and Contracts: The cost of providing competitive and fair contracts accounts for the largest portion of the budget request. Compliance: A recent state audit determined that our staffing and support for English Language Learner students must increase Infrastructure: Theatre maintenance, school transportation, updates to key IT systems and applications, transportation and athletic subsidies to avoid increased fees require ongoing attention and funding. Program Improvements: A fraction of the overall request proposes funds to enhance and continue key programs aligned with the Portrait priorities. A Breakdown of the Superintendent’s FY25 Budget Request: Total FY25 Budget Request: $97,694,162 Increase over FY24: 6.01% New Staff Requested: 9.15 FTE Superintendent’s FY25 Operating Budget Request Next Steps: December/January - Finance Committee, School Committee & School Administration Review Budget December 13 – Finance Committee/School Committee budget workshop January 2 - Town Manager consults with School Committee January 16 - Public Hearing on School Budget January 17 - Finance Committee Reviews School Budget January 23 - School Committee Votes School Budget Questions regarding the FY25 Budget Request can be sent to the School Committee at schoolcommittee@needham.k12.ma.us. The next School Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 19th at 6:30pm.

At the November 21 School Committee Meeting, there was discussion of the Science curriculum and how it relates to the core values of the Portrait of a Needham Graduate, the Fall NEF grant awards, Disproportionality in Education, and a Vote on the 2024-2025 School Calendar. download packet > watch meeting > Superintendent and School Committee Comments Dr. Gutekanst congratulated the Girls Swim and Dive team for winning the first ever D1 State Final. They had a 9-1 season and broke Wellesley’s 75 meet streak. They were also Bay State Champions. This was coach Kate Curtin’s first year as head coach. Mike O’Brien shared that he, Connie Barr and Matt Spengler met with Dr. Gutekanst to discuss policies with personnel and students. They will meet again over the winter. He also met with the acting superintendent at Minuteman Vocational High School where he is the liaison. Needham’s enrollment remains strong as do MCAS scores. Minuteman is partnering with Lesley University to use their athletic fields, and have plans to improve those on their own campus. In this Thanksgiving week, School Committee presented a slideshow that expressed their thanks and appreciation for all the different staff who work in the schools to support NPS students. Portrait of a Needham Graduate Presentation: Grade 6-12 Science Mark Healey, Science Department Chair for grades 6-8, and Jennifer Regrut, Science Department Chair for grades 9-12, presented how the Portrait of a Needham Graduate competencies are helping to create a cohesive understanding of what it means to think like a scientist. Students from High Rock, Pollard and NHS discussed their personal experience in the classroom and projects they completed. The presentation covered: How students are creative thinkers, problem solvers, empowered learners and resilient. There are many layered opportunities to align the work of scientists and engineers with the competencies. They create collaborations with other areas of study, including math and literacy. The programs focuses on anti-bias curriculum resources as well as being socially and culturally responsible contributors. Grading is based on growth and learning and mastering the material, with feedback on how to get there. More than a letter grade, and more reflective. The students at each level focused on the importance of collaboration and working together to get the best out of each other and the work. Needham Education Foundation Fall Grant Awards Members of the Needham Education Foundation presented their fall grants. There were nine grants awarded across all the schools totaling over $30,000. There were more grants in this cycle than there have been in the past. Details of the grants can be found on the NEF website. The School Committee voted unanimously to accept the grants. Disproportionality in Education Mary Lammi, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, and Dr. Gutekanst presented on Disproportionality in Education. Disproportionality refers to a group’s representation in a particular category that exceeds expectations for that group or differs substantially from the representation of others in that category. The presentation looked specifically at special education, discipline, and chronic absence based on 2022-23 data. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires states to collect and examine data to determine if significant disproportionality in special education based on race or ethnicity is occurring. The district has received a report of no disproportionality since the state reporting requirement was initiated in 2014. However, even though Needham has no reports of disproportionality from the state, they want to look deeper into any discrepancies that exist. More information can be found in the packet. Higher level of students of color percentage wise compared to white counterparts in special education English learners and low income also have discrepancies Students on IEPs are a more vulnerable population when it comes to discipline (suspension and expulsions). Looked at the numbers of students who have 10 or more, as well as the practices, policies, and procedures. Looked at all categories and no disproportionality was found. COVID had a huge impact on chronic absences (absent at least 10% of the days they were enrolled), with 1 in 4 students chronically absent across the state. It hasn’t returned to prepandemic rates as of last school year. Discrepancies by race and ethnicity, low income, high needs, ELL, and students with disabilities. Compared to the state, Needham is doing better in these areas. But we still see great discrepancies in certain areas that the district needs to address and work with families to create stability in those students’ education. The district is addressing disproportionality by: Instituting clear policies and procedures for expectations around special education, discipline and attendance. The district curriculum accommodation plan for supports for students Curriculum/Instruction that is universally designed, equity focused, and evidence based School level student support teams that review student needs Rollout of the Social Emotional Learning and Mental Health Framework Strong network of supports and services for struggling students across all schools, especially for chronic absences Vote on the 2024-2025 School Calendar Discussion about the 2024-25 school calendar began with Dr. Gutekanst explaining the reasoning behind some changes, including election day and the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Next year, instead of having the full day before Thanksgiving off, Tuesday Nov. 5 – Election Day – will be a vacation day. This change is to reduce undue burden on Newman as well as respond to teachers’ request to have a longer and more productive personal development day not close to a holiday. The last day of school is currently slated for June 16, 2025 without snow days. Matt Spengler and Mike O’Brien voted against the calendar as presented, but in the end it passed with a 4-2-0 vote.

At the November 7 School Committee meeting, there was a discussion of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Certificate of Academic Excellence Awards, a Nutrition Services Report, a Legislative Update and the Proposed 2024-2025 School Calendar. download packet > watch meeting > Public Comments Several Needham residents and parents spoke in support of Needham’s dedication to cultural acceptance and celebration of diversity, and asked for support of this vision to extend to all students in Massachusetts by supporting House Bill 542 and Senate Bill 288. These Bills support and promote racially inclusive curriculum in schools across the Commonwealth and reflect accurate histories in educational curriculum highlighting various ethnic groups and historically marginalized groups. The Bills also provide funding for implementing culturally responsive curriculum more broadly in Massachusetts. Superintendent Updates Thanked Needham Diversity Initiative for sponsoring a program to discuss belonging in the Needham community. Additional activities are being planned by NDI for future dates. Several Needham High School athletic teams have qualified for post-season playoffs – field hockey, girls soccer, boys soccer, volleyball, girls swim/diving, cross country. We wish them all well in their endeavors. Congratulations to the newest inductees into the National Chinese Honor Society. Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Certificate of Academic Excellence Awards Nevan Sujit and Ray Winig, students at Needham High School, were recognized as the recipients of the Superintendents Certificate of Academic Excellence Award. Ray is both a model student and a model citizen in the Needham High School community, with a dedication to academics and serving as a role model in furthering the conversation of equity, cultural proficiency and inclusivity in the school community. Nevan is both a dedicated student and a well-balanced person, who is drawn to the STEM field. Last year, for example, he tried to independently develop microbial fuel cells (MFCs) that can turn wastewater into electricity. Nutrition Services Report Emily Murphy, Nutrition Services Director and Jen Tuttelman presented an update on Nutrition Services in Needham Public Schools. They also brought samples of some of the healthy foods they are serving in school for the SC members to taste. Highlights of the presentation include: Universal free meal program has become permanent as of the 2023-2024 school year. Goals: Sustainability Reviewing departmental practice to determine how they can be improved. Trying to materially reduce consumption of single use and plastic products. For example, introduced boxed water in lieu of plastic bottled water. Partnering with re: dish to reduce waste from single use items. For example, the school district would purchase reusable trays and the company would pick-up/wash/sanitize/return the trays for re-use. Hoping to implement next school year. Local Purchasing Received additional funding from the Commonwealth, which is being used to increase local purchasing and offer local food on the NPS menu. Considering changes to the menus to make the entrees more nutritious and incorporating more whole ingredients/from scratch recipes. Implementing employee training to more effectively integrate local food into purchasing practices and menus, and to help students make healthy choices in the foods they are selecting for their lunch trays. Creating and testing new recipes each month to expand the healthy and delicious menu options. Statistics/Data Needham’s meal participation has increased by 13% since last year. Average daily participation is approx. 67% of the student population. (last year was 53%) Revamped adult meal program and catering program as well. Adult meal participation is up 38% and catering revenue has increased by 47% this year. Challenges: Procurement Continues to be difficult this year. Nutrition is part of a collective bargaining group, and there has been some disruption this year due to inconsistencies in the group following mandated regulations. Staffing Recruitment & Retention It has been difficult to fill all positions. Currently 4 open positions for nutrition staff. There was a recent increase in starting salaries for staff coming out of collective bargaining discussions, which along with an existing bonus program, will hopefully improve recruiting and retention efforts. Legislative Update State Representative Denise Garlick presented a Legislative Update on MA Issues. Details can be found in the packet. Representative Garlick is the current chair of the MA House Education Committee and the Chair of a commission on the status of individuals with disabilities. Highlights of the presentation include: Legislative focus on: student mental health and finding avenues for providing additional support services early literacy curriculum. Focus on supporting Needham residents: secured $100k for Charles River Center Accessibility Adaptations secured $75K for Needham Housing Authority for Community Center Upgrade secured $40k for Community Behavioral Health Services at Beth Israel Deaconess in Needham School Committee was very appreciative of Representative Garlick's presentation and expressed how lucky we are to have her as Needham's representative in the State House. Questions and discussion from the School Committee members ensued. Proposed 2024-2025 School Calendar Dr. Gutekanst presented a proposed calendar for the 2024-2025 School year. A key change from prior years is a proposal to move the teacher learning day to November 5th instead of the Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving. Next year is a Federal election year, with expected high voter turnout on November 5th. Newman is a polling site and the Superintendent’s view is that the environment won’t be safe for students, faculty and staff to be conducting business. Obviates the need for a second early release day in November. All teacher learning will be consolidated into a single day on the 5th. Assuming no snow days, the last day of school would be Monday, June 16th. Other than the above noted change, the proposed calendar follows a similar format as prior years. School Committee discussion ensued, with certain members of the Committee expressing concern over (i) closing all Needham schools on November 5th and (ii) having an early release day in the same week as a holiday (which occurs twice in October in the current proposed schedule). A vote on the proposed calendar will occur at the next SC meeting. School Committee Comments Expressed appreciation for the NDI event. SEPAC has a parent support group that is meeting on a monthly basis. Information is available on the SEPAC website. Pollard 8th grade student previously sent a letter to the School Committee expressing her concern over the amount of waste she was seeing produced by her and her peers. The next School Committee meeting will be on November 21 at 6:30pm.