Agenda Abstracts
4A. Budget Process Update
The budget process is well underway. Please consider and keep in mind the following steps and strategies for action for the next few months.
This brief update will include a review of the budget development timeline, a review of the three types of budget under consideration and being developed, and distribution and discussion of information about recent and upcoming legislative caucuses and budget issues.
It should be noted that while we continue efforts to achieve our mission and improve our programs, we at best can consider a (bare bones) needs-based budget. Having said that, we know we must examine a level services budget and a drastic measures budget.
4C. Calendar Review
Attached are two proposed drafts of the 2006-2007 school calendar. One represents a pre-Labor Day opening of school and the other represents a post-Labor Day opening. School Committee will vote to approve one of the two calendars at the Regional meeting on January 24th.
5B. Middle School Mathematics Update
As reported to the School Committee last year, in past years, 7th grade mathematics students were divided into two levels of classes about one-third of the way into the school year. Last year, one team kept students in heterogeneous classes all year. Based on that experience and research, this year all 7th grade students remained in heterogeneous classes. This summer, teachers engaged in substantial, lengthy, professional development and they have continued their study and learning this school year. This planning in curriculum and pedagogy has informed work including extensions of lessons, math tune-up classes, differentiated teaching strategies, and other methods to challenge every student.