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At the 2/5/19 School Committee meeting, discussion items included a report from the NHS Student Advisory; a presentation of the new Broadmeadow School Improvement Plan by Principal Emily Gaberman; and a first reading of two new School Committee policies: 1) JFABC Assignment of Elementary Students to Schools, and 2) IKE Promotion and Retention of Elementary Students. Download packet > Watch meeting > Report from the NHS Student Advisory NHS Student Council representatives for each of the four classes reported on various successful fall/winter fundraisers and upcoming spring events. The students discussed issues of concern to the entire student body like enforcement of a “no eating in the hallways” rule, the availability of microwaves for student use in the cafeteria, and planning a respectful way to mark the first anniversary of the deaths of Talia Newfield and Adrienne Garrido on February 10th. Students also remarked on the ongoing efforts of Students Advocating for Equity (“SAFE”) to promote discussions of race among upperclassmen and faculty. The hope is that the upperclassmen will then moderate similar discussions with underclassmen. Broadmeadow School Improvement Plan Principal Gaberman presented Broadmeadow Elementary’s new School Improvement Plan, which contains three action steps/goals for advancing academics while also developing social, emotional, wellness and citizenship skills. In addition, the plan ensures that infrastructure will support student learning for the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 school years. Additional details are available in the School Committee packet. First Reading of Two New School Committee Policies Two new policies were submitted by the Policy Subcommittee for first reading and discussion: JFABC Assignment of Elementary Students to Schools This clarifies circumstances under which the district superintendent may assign a family to an elementary school outside their residential area (e.g., due to overcrowding, under-enrollment, development of new residential areas, etc.). Also discusses potential “buffer zones,” a defined area in which resident families could be assigned to 1 of 2 potential elementary schools. IKE Promotion and Retention of Elementary Students This codifies an existing (but previously unwritten) practice where students progress annually unless their teacher determines that retention is in the student’s best interest. Retention of a student requires notification and explanation to the parents/guardians. The school principal is the final authority under these circumstances. Action Items The School Committee approved the proposed changes to the 2019-2020 Middle School Program of Studies as presented by Principals Tamatha Bibbo and Jessica Downey during the January 22nd School Committee meeting. The School Committee also approved the FY20 Revolving Fund Budgets as recommended by Superintendent Gutekanst. Comments SC Chair Aaron Pressman noted the generous contribution of Analog Devices, Inc. of Norwood, MA to benefit the Needham High School Robotics Team. #Broadmeadow #HighSchool #SchoolImprovementPlan #policies

At the 1/22 School Committee meeting principals Tamatha Bibbo and Jessica Downey presented proposed changes to the Middle School Program of Studies, and the School Committee voted to approve the FY20 budget recommendation. Download packet > Watch meeting > Middle School Program of Studies A full description was provided in writing to School Committee, but principals Bibbo and Downey used their time to highlight three proposed changes to the program next year: Community Service Learning Based on best practices and feedback from the Pollard community, the program will be extended over both school years (7t​h​ and 8t​h)​ and require students to complete a total of 10 hours over two years. Previously the requirement had been 6 CSL hours completed only in 8th grade. Math Based on recent feedback regarding clarity and transparency of the program, the description has been altered and expanded, now including separate descriptions for Math 6, Math 7, Math 7 Accelerated, Math 8, and Math 8 Accelerated. Additionally, they are embarking on a review of the program as a whole and anticipate further changes in the future once the study is complete. World Languages French and Mandarin will both be offered in 7th grade, instead of French and 6th and Mandarin in 8th. This change is a result of a year-long study of programming and a desire to increase opportunities for students to study a level 1 language over a 2-year span prior to entering high school. The change will bring Needham's offerings more in line with neighboring communities. Following the presentation, SC members expressed their support for the changes. There was discussion around the new Accelerated Math track, now in its third year, with some members sharing concerns about the program in its current form. The School Committee will vote on the proposed program of studies at its next meeting. FY20 Budget Discussion and Vote For the first time in many years — possibly ever! — the budget request remained unchanged from the original proposal presented by Dr. Gutekanst in December. There was a brief discussion to follow up on comments and questions that were raised at the Public Hearing, which had strong turnout from the community in support of Full Day Kindergarten. Some parents had expressed concern over whether Full Day K would in fact be implemented, and Chair Aaron Pressman pointed out that the vote at this meeting represented the final decision, since Town Meeting only votes to approve the overall operating budget, not specific line items. The FY20 budget recommendation was approved by a unanimous vote. #Pollard #HighRock #budget #FullDayK

The 1/15/19 School Committee meeting focused on the Operating Budget for FY20 with a consultation with the Town Manager and a Public Hearing. There was also an update on the Athletic Program. Download packet > Download budget presentation > Watch meeting > FY20 Budget Consultation with Town Manager Kate Fitzpatrick, Town Manager, and David Davison, Asst. Town Manager, presented information on budget principles and priorities to the School Committee. Priorities include: Increasing and improving methods of public communication by adding new position Expanding the season of the Parks and Rec programs Public Safety, especially with the growth of commercial and residential population Health and Family Services, including clearing program waitlists at Youth and Family Services, and more programming at the Senior Center. In response to questions, the Town Manager also discussed pedestrian safety efforts and additional funding that will be used for priority areas, some that are near public schools. Public Hearing and Presentation on FY20 Budget Supt. Gutekanst presented the FY20 budget. Budget priorities include opening the Williams School, funding Full-Day Kindergarten, and furthering equity and achievement for all students. The FY20 budget requests a 7.5% increase, consistent with a usual request of around 5% for contractual salary increases, level service, and modest program improvements, PLUS the additional costs for opening a new school that has nearly double the square footage of the school it is replacing, plus programming and staffing for full day kindergarten. The plan includes 22 sections of kindergarten, with a teacher and full-time teaching assistant in each class. During the Public Hearing, numerous parents, community members, and a representative from the Needham Education Association commented in support of the FY20 budget proposal, and in particular the implementation of full-day kindergarten. Athletic Program Update and Budget Discussion Dan Lee, Athletic Director, and other representatives from Needham High School showed an inspiring video of the wide range of sports opportunities for students. He discussed the Unified Sports Program during 2017-18, where students with and without disabilities participated together on a track and field team and a basketball team. The athletics budget was discussed. Currently, program revenues are not keeping pace with expenses. Information was presented comparing Needham to other districts in terms of percent of revenues from operating budget vs student fees, as well as breadth of program choices. Per pupil expenses seem in-line, but Needham has a higher reliance on student fees. A multi-pronged plan to restore sustainability was proposed, that would increase funding from the district’s operating budget, increase student fees modestly, and increase specific sport surcharges modestly. School Committee members affirmed the diversity of programing and asked to see more information about how many students are participating in the programs. The decline in the Needham Boosters funding for fee waivers was also discussed, in the face of rising needs, especially as the middle school sports programs have grown. #FullDayK #budget #athletics

UPDATE: January 23, 2019 Last night Town Meeting voted unanimously to approve an additional $630,000 to allow construction to proceed on two modular classrooms for the Mitchell School. The source of funding was free cash, and is not expected to have any impact on future spending. ---- On Tuesday, January 22, a Special Town Meeting will be held to vote on additional funding for the construction of two modular classrooms at Mitchell Elementary School. Last May, Town Meeting appropriated $1.1 million for construction, but the only bid received exceeded the budget by $630,000. Article 1 appropriates an additional $630,000, allowing the project to move forward on schedule to be completed by September 2019. The School Committee has provided a FAQ document to provide more details and address questions that Town Meeting members and the public may have about the project, including: Why the bid came in higher than expected The impact of sending the project out for rebid The impact of a delay on the implementation of Full Day Kindergarten The impact of a delay on the education program for Mitchell students FAQs > Special Town Meeting Warrant > #Mitchell #FullDayK #TownMeeting

The 1/8/19 meeting covered Enrollment Forecasts for 2020–2035, the technology budget for FY20 and the technology strategic plan, and a new scholarship. Download packet > Watch meeting > Enrollment Forecasts The presentation by Dr. Jerome McKibbens of McKibben Demographics offered a glimpse into both Needham’s future population growth and school enrollment. It predicts a rapid increase in enrollment until 2025-26, then slowly declining enrollment between 2026-34. Needham deviates from broader trends because enrollment is projected to continue growing through 2026, while many neighboring districts are already declining. Maintaining stable school enrollment levels in the future depends on drawing younger families to town. This in turn requires housing stock to turn over. Needham, like many suburban towns, has low amounts of apartments, making it harder for life-long residents to down-size and stay in town. These residents stay in their homes resulting in less housing availability for young families. Technology Budget and Plan The FY20 budget request for technology is $151,880. This figure includes $59,000 to meet the technology needs of Full Day Kindergarten. While previous technology budgets have centered on providing appropriate technology, including 1:1 devices, for the district, this year’s focus is on teaching and learning. This approach is less about devices and more about how students and teachers interact with smart machines. Terri Duggan summed this up as a focus shift from “wires and pliers” to “teaching and learning." The 5-year strategic plan is comprised of seven focal points: 1. Curriculum, Instruction, & Assessment 2. Personalized Professional Learning 3. Robust Infrastructure 4. Budget & Resources 5. Data & Privacy 6. Community Partnerships 7. Use of Time & Space Details are available in the School Committee Packet. The Anne Milligan Memorial Scholarship The School Committee approved a new scholarship established in memory of long-time Needham resident, Anne Milligan. This scholarship will provide two $1,000 awards to graduating seniors who are attending accredited schools in either Nursing or Textile Arts. Criteria include academics, community service and the ability to work with others. Important Dates Tuesday, 1/15, 7:00pm – Public Hearing on FY19-20 Budget Tuesday, 1/22, 5:00pm – SC meeting, vote on budget (note earlier time) Tuesday, 1/22, 7:30pm – Special Town Meeting to vote on additional funding for Mitchell Modular Classrooms #enrollment #budget #technology

At the 12/18 meeting, 2019-20 budget discussions continued with a presentation on Student Support Services. There was also an update on the Mitchell modulars. Download Packet > Student Support Services Budget Mary Lammi and Matt Ganas presented the budget request for the Student Support Service, which encompasses: Special Education Section 504 Accommodation Plans Counseling Services Nursing Services English Language Education METCO Home Hospital Tutoring Home School For the most part the budget requested will maintain current levels of service, including several staff positions that were previously paid for by grants that must now shift to the operating budget. The opening of Sunita Williams will allow the ELC program, which was previously split between Newman (K-2) and Hillside (3-5) to be housed in one school, but no new staffing will be required other than an increase to the Special Education Coordinator position to allow for oversight of the expanded program. Data for special education enrollment and staff caseloads was presented to support the few staffing increases requested. All numbers refer to FTE (full time equivalent), with a 0.2 increase representing one school day. 1.0 Special Education Teacher at Broadmeadow 0.3 School Psychologist at Pollard 0.2 Guidance Counselor at Broadmeadow 0.2 Guidance Counselor at Eliot 0.2 Guidance Counselor at Sunita Williams 0.4 Special Education Coordinator at Sunita Williams 0.2 Upgrade ELL Coordinator to Administrative Position Much discussion focused on the increase in guidance, with agreement among SC members that mental health issues and the changing demographics of the town put more demands on the guidance department. Mitchell School Modulars A last-minute addition to agenda was an update on the Mitchell Modular project, which has hit a snag. The modulars were deemed necessary to allow full-day Kindergarten to be implemented at Mitchell and to ease crowding in the aging school, which is not due to be rebuilt for several more years. Town Meeting approved funds for the construction of the modulars in October, but the construction bid exceeds the amount allocated by about $700,000. Factors cited include fewer companies bidding on projects and increased costs for labor and materials. Meetings have taken place with the Town Manager and PPBC, and the recommendation is to convene a Special Town Meeting to approve the additional funds prior to January 30th, otherwise the project will be delayed by a year. The Finance Committee has identified a source of funding within the current budget, but Town Meeting must approve the expenditure. SC voted unanimously to endorse a recommendation that the Select Board convene a Special Town meeting to approve the additional funds. Given the previous support from various Town Boards, Town Meeting, and the community, the SC hopes the article will pass easily. #Mitchell #FullDayK #budget #SpecialEducation

The 12/11 SC meeting focused primarily on the FY20 budget request, along with an update from the NHS Advisory Council to School Committee. Download Packet > Download Budget Proposal > Watch Meeting > Needham High School Advisory to School Committee Report Students reported a successful series of fall events as well as positive feedback on usage of the new space in the High School. They are looking to focus more on increasing participation both within the school and the community at large with their pep rally, bon fire and homecoming events. Impact of Feb 2018 accident: students will be selling bracelets for $1 each with profits being distributed evenly across scholarships in memory of Talia Newfield and Adrienne Garrido. Dr. Gutenkast commented on the recent graffiti incident in the High School. “Any sign of homophobia or anti-Semitism is unacceptable. If we can name the behavior and say that’s not who we are, it will go away.” Dr. Gutekanst continued to remark that students that have spoken up upon discovering the graffiti are appreciated and demonstrate how we are all leaders in our community. Superintendent’s 2019-20 Budget Request Superintendent Dan Gutenkast presented the FY20 budget proposal. It was a challenging budget year, requiring input from all, but the proposal outlines resources consistent with Needham’s goals, in particular the theme of Equity. The proposal will be voted upon by the School Committee and then the Town Meeting will finalize in May 2019. The budget proposal is on the NPS website for community members to access. The FY20 proposal presented represents a 7.5% increase over FY19 in two components: Level Service These are typical budget line items that include: contractual salary increases, level services, and some program improvements: $3,310,820. Program Improvements These are unique to FY20 and include opening the Sunita L. Williams School and launching Full-Day Kindergarten: $2,048,354. This is a heavy lift and will need community support. Benchmarks and Challenges Current and projected enrollment numbers for Needham remain above the state average. Compared to its peers, Needham has a higher student:teacher ratio. While Needham enrollment numbers continue to grow, our peers are seeing decreasing enrollment numbers. This remains a challenge for Needham and projections indicate a one that we will have to continue to address. Benchmark data suggests Needham continues to be high performing in assessment outcomes (MCAS, AP, SAT) but not quite at the top of its peer group, while its tax rate is approximately in the middle of the pack, and lower than many of the higher performing districts. Full-Day Kindergarten Needham is one of the very few communities in the Commonwealth without full-day kindergarten. Per the 2016 Full Day Kindergarten Report to Needham School Committee, Full Day Kindergarten leads to higher academic achievement, school readiness, better long term attendance, social and emotional learning outcomes and actually decreases costs long-term by reducing retention and remediation. Aside from the overwhelming majority of Needham parents desiring it, Full-day Kindergarten is a matter of equity, inclusion, and access for all children. Only 60% of current Kindergarteners participate in KASE. Of the 40% who don’­t— for some it’s a choice, but for many it’s about being able to afford the cost. The Full-Day Kindergarten committee presented the current work-in-progress on curriculum development, including a video which gives a sense of what the Needham full-day curriculum could look like in 2019-2020. Needs Deferred from the FY20 Budget Proposal Among the items listed under deferred needs are: guidance, literacy and coaching and middle school literacy, part-time High School staff for Latin, Mandarin and Pathways Science. Staff will continue to make due with current business software, though the need for improvement there remains. (See slide 27 of the budget proposal PPT for a complete list of deferred needs.) Next Steps - The public hearing on the FY20 school budget proposal is on January 15. Community members are encouraged to attend. January 15 - Town Manager Meets with SC on Budget, Public Hearing January 16 - Finance Committee Reviews Budget January 22 - School Committee Votes Budget May 19 - Town Meeting Votes on Budget #budget #HighSchool #FullDayK

At the 11/20 School Committee meeting, SC heard presentations on the Hillside School Improvement Plan, NEF Fall Grants, and an update from the REAL Coalition. Download packet > Watch Meeting > Hillside School Improvement Plan Principal Michael Kascak and teachers Evan Brown and Liz Hitron presented the Hillside School Improvement Plan. The plan consist of three main goals: Goal #1: Create and improve through regular review, a Continuum of Learning that matches the needs of all learners. Goal #2: Collaborate with our school constituencies, other Needham Schools and other outside institutions to develop and promote student leadership and expanded learning opportunities. Goal #3: Continue to run a safe and successful school program in an aging facility that has inadequate interior and exterior space while preparing to move into the new Sunita Williams School. Specific objectives in support of these goals which were highlighted included: new and revised assessments for literacy and math, professional development around racial equity, change of the Collaborative Teacher Training Program from Lesley University to Curry College, and progress on the construction of the new Sunita Williams School. More details can be found in the SC packet. Needham Education Foundation (NEF) Fall Grants This fall the NEF awarded 16 grants for a total of $67,553. The NEF has changed the grant process, accepting applications three times per year for either small or large grants. NEF Fall Grants: Making Space Art Installation (NHS) Cognition and Instruction in STEM – Professional Development (NHS) Gregory Katsoulis Author Visit (NHS) Differentiated Learning Spaces in the Library (NHS) The Sky’s the Limit: Drones (NHS) Rubik’s Cube Mosaics (NHS) World War Women: The Unsung Heroines of WWII Performance (NHS) Examined Life: Greek Studies in the Schools Fellowship (High Rock) Full STEAM Ahead: Enhancing Computational Thinking & Spatial Reasoning for All Learners Through Mathematical Play (Broadmeadow) Ukes for Broadmeadow Global Citizens of Broadmeadow: Flag Display Vox Books – Books That Talk! (Hillside) Yoga for Every Learner (Mitchell) The Walking Classroom: WalkKit Podcast Devices (Eliot) Sons of Serendip Music Residency (Pollard and NHS) REAL Coalition Update Mary Lammi, Assistant Superintendent of Student Support Services, gave a brief update on the work of the REAL (Race Equity Access Leadership) Coalition. The Coalition was formed last year and is made up of teachers, administrators, parents, and student. The group identified six goal areas, and has formed subcommittees for each area. Curriculum & Instruction Professional Learning Policy & Practices Culture & Climate Employment Practices Communication & Community Engagement The work of the Coalition is shifting this year from setting goals to taking action. One example of their progress is district-wide professional development event "Racial Equity in Action" that took place on November 21, attended by all NPS staff. Author Beverly Daniel Tatum was the keynote speaker, and then staff split out into over 50 different workshops. Details of the coalition's work in each of the six areas can be found in the SC packet. #NEF #Hillside #REALCoalition #schoolimprovementplan #equity

On Saturday, November 17, the School Committee hosted an Open House at the newly renovated High School. The project involved both renovation of existing space and addition of a new wing. High School students led a tour of the new space, which includes: A new Main Office area A new science lab in space previously used for storage Five classrooms each on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the new wing, two of which can be split into two smaller classrooms as needed New seating and collaboration space in hallways Major renovations to Gym A #HighSchool

The November 13th School Committee meeting included awards for two accomplished high school seniors, a discussion of the MCAS results, and an update on the Portrait of a Needham Graduate process. Download packet > Watch Meeting > Student Award Anna Friedman and Ethan Lee, both seniors at NHS, were awarded The Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Certificate of Academic Excellence. These students exemplify our core value around scholarship. These accomplished students discussed their interests, achievements and passions with the school committee and commented on how they have extended their learning at and outside of NHS. MCAS Results Overall achievement results were consistent with last year in ELA and Science, with a slight dip in Math. Growth in both ELA and Math was strong for students at all grade levels. Needham is rated as “Meeting Targets” and had the sixth highest score of 20 comparable districts. A new accountability system is in place for the “Next Generation MCAS,” currently in its second year. Differences include a focus on raising performance of the lowest 25% of students, regardless of their proficiency, and measurement of the percentage of 11th and 12th graders completing advanced coursework, not merely passing 10th grade MCAS. There is also an attendance indicator, which requires that students attend class 90% of the time in order to meet the criteria. For subgroups, growth is where we want it to be, even if achievement is not where we want. The achievement gap increased for students with disabilities and students with high needs. The subgroup data underscores the equity gap that the district is looking at, in order to meet the needs of all students. Overall, Needham is one of the only districts meeting targets (for achievement and growth). Portrait of a Needham Graduate update SC Chair Aaron Pressman and SC member Andrea Longo-Carter presented on the Portrait of a Needham Graduate project to develop a shared vision for Needham’s students. They shared details of the committee formation, process, and learnings. A list of competencies and their definitions were shared with SC, and feedback was solicited. SC shared thoughts on the need for understanding the scientific method, how to discern what is real or not, how we teach students to questions, detect bias, and access information. The connection of the vision to students who pursue vocational education or alternate paths was also discussed, and the desire to be inclusive of all students was emphasized. Action Items The committee voted unanimously on two action items: Approve Superintendent’s 2018-2019 Goals Approve Creation of JV2 Boys Hockey Team and Fees Other Comments SC is hosting an open house on 11/17 from 9 to10:30am at NHS. Students will lead tours of the new classroom spaces, renovated spaces and gym. This is great opportunity to meet SC and see the new space. #Portrait #MCAS #Awards

On Wednesday, October 17, a screening was held at Newman Elementary of the documentary "METCO: Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow." followed by a panel discussion. Made by Natalie Guthrie, Education producer for the Needham Channel and NHS teacher, the film provides a history of the METCO programming starting in the 1960s, its importance today in providing diverse experiences to both Needham and Boston students, and goals for the program in the coming years. Ms. Guthrie spent over a year making the film, and interviewed a wide range of historians, administrators, teachers, parents, and students. After the screening, Ms. Guthrie, herself both a METCO alum and parent of current METCO students, moderated a panel with Superintendent Dr. Dan Gutekeanst, Needham METCO Director Dr. Joanne Allen-Willoughby, and two METCO students from Needham High School. Also present was new METCO CEO Milly Arbaje-Thomas, who discussed initiatives to increase both engagement across METCO districts and fundraising efforts to allow more students to participate in the program. Common themes that emerged were Needham's wish to increase the number METCO students (though both space and funding are current limiting factors), and the importance of the program for ALL students in Needham schools, not just those who come from Boston. Also discussed was the ongoing need to strengthen the connection between Boston and Needham families, both by making it easier for Boston students to participate in Needham activities, and for Needham students and parents to make more of an effort to visit their peers in Boston. Students also spoke of the difficulties fitting in as people of color in a predominantly white school. Watch the documentary > Needham METCO information > METCO, Inc. information > #METCO #Equity

The 10/16 SC meeting focused on transportation and initial findings from the biennial Student, Parent, and Staff Survey. Download Packet > Watch meeting > Transportation report Shane Marchand, Director of Transportation for NPS, presented an update on transportation: More families signed up on time, which helped planning greatly All bus drivers are trained on how to administer the epi-pen but they are not legally required to administer them An additional bus was requested for next year, especially to help with the Middle and High School routes Given demand for transportation, Dr. Gutekanst is open to possibly raising the bus fee for next year Staff, Student, and Parent Survey Results Diane Simmons, Director of Planning, Communication, and Community Education, presented initial findings from the biennial district-wide survey: A new survey format and measurement scale was used, making a comparison to past years more difficult. Among generally positive responses to most survey questions, some potential areas in need of attention were highlighted: Student engagement decreases as students get older Marginalized groups report below-average levels of “School Belonging,” in line with findings of Equity Audit Staff and parents identified lower favorability scores for school resources in the areas of crowding, building repairs, and specialists Stress and anxiety continue to be concerns, supporting findings of the MetroWest Adolescent Health Survey SC members asked questions and made suggestions regarding what data to include in the final report and how it can be made clearer when it is shared to parents and the community. Other Items of Interest Open house on 11/17 from 9-10:30am at NHS - Students will lead tours of the new classroom spaces, renovated spaces and gym. This is great opportunity to meet SC and see the new space. Early Childcare Pilot Program - SC voted 7-0 in favor of moving forward School and Public Safety Initiative (Ballot Question #4) - SC voted 7-0 in support of the override to fund new police a fire stations. #survey #Transportation