School Committee Meeting Summary
Oct 21, 2014
Download the agenda and meeting packet
2014 MCAS Report:
Major statistics presented were among Grades 5, 8 and 10, measuring performance in English Language Arts, Math, and Science and Technology. When compared to the entire state of Massachusetts, Lexington scored higher by comparison in all categories. When compared to similar communities (Weston, Wellesley, Brookline, Newton, Westwood, Belmont, and Winchester), Lexington scored among the highest.
Fiscal Year 2016 Capital Recommendations:
Summaries of requests include: Furniture and Equipment Replacement Program, Technology Program, Time Clock Implementation Costs, and Department of Public Facilities.
Facilities projects being proposed for FY 2016 includes Hastings School Renovation/Replacement. The $1.1 million requested for FY 16 is the cost of the feasibility study for Hastings School to be renovated vs rebuilt. We will know by Dec or early Jan 2015 if the state will help with financial assistance to rebuild/renovate. The feasibility study would need to be conducted first.
Discussion of PreK-12 space needs across the district:
Options for overcrowding for next year: allow class sizes to rise above School Committee guidelines (and add an assistant), add modular classrooms, use art/music room for general education classrooms (thus having art/music on a cart), split the gym in half to create PE and art spaces, and finally, redistrict students to schools that have more physical space.
Continued discussion on this topic will be discussed at the next School Committee meeting on Oct 28th and a final vote on Nov 3rd regarding their decision on what to do about the overcrowding for next year.
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