By Michelle L. Santoro

Sherman – On Wednesday, April 3, in the Sherman School Library, the Sherman School Board of Education (“BOE and/or “Board”) met for its regularly scheduled monthly meeting. As usu al, Superintendent Dr. Patricia Cosentino began with celebrations; this time acknowledging Paraprofessional Day.  She gave a shout-out to the school’s paraprofessionals.  “They are a foundation in our school … they do our hardest work and do it with a smile.” 

Two Sherman teachers will retire at the end of this school year – Sheila Reidy and Beth Scott. Chair Matt Vogt discussed the careers of both during his chair report, noting that he was a student of Ms. Reidy while at the Sherman School.  Mr. Vogt thanked them both.  BOE Member Tim Laughlin also thanked the retiring teachers. 

For her brief Superintendent’s report, Dr. Pat advised about activities planned by school personnel for students on the afternoon of the Solar Eclipse.  She noted, International Night, which will include “mini-golf,” is scheduled on April 11 from 5-7p.m.  Dr. Pat said, “We’re hoping for another wonderful event,” remembering the success of last year’s event.  The children will enjoy spring break from April 15 – 19.  Lastly, she reminded everyone about the budget vote scheduled for May 4. 

The Board voted to approve the 2024/25 school-wide calendar, and approved June 12, 2024, at 6pm (the last day of school) as the date on which the eighth graders will graduate.  Changes to the following policies, proposed by the Policy Committee (“PC”), were on the agenda for a First Reading:  5112(a-e) – Ages of Attendance/Admissions/Placement, 5141.5(a-b) – Suicide Prevention and Intervention and 6148(a-c) – FASFA Completion Program.  PC recommends a CABE policy for 5112.  With respect thereto, parents of children who are not five years old on or before September 1 may seek a waiver from the school’s principal.  Once a waiver request is received, an appropriately certified staff member and the principal will conduct an assessment of the child to ensure admittance to kindergarten prior to attaining age five is developmentally appropriate. 

Justin Quader, a teacher/paraprofessional, and Courtney Castro, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), both resigned, effective March 18 and March 1, respectively.  The Board voted unanimously to approve the following new hires: Emily Sanford, paraprofessional and Philip Passero, teacher, both effective April 1.  Yessenia Pagan, a BCBA, started work at the school on March 15 on a contract basis. 

Discussion regarding high school tuition contracts was tabled.  Dr. Pat read correspondence received from the Chair of New Milford Board of Education and the Superintendent of New Milford schools, dated March 22.  That district will not move forward with a new interdistrict cooperative agreement with Sherman; however, Sherman students are still welcome for placement in the high school per the existing contract. 

During public comment, Erin Bonner questioned the first reading of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) program, particularly where is states “without legal immigration status.”  Regarding Policy 5141, Ms. Bonner was curious whether the policy will apply at the elementary school level and the district’s intent with respect thereto. 

The Board adjourned to Executive Session to discuss ongoing negotiations.

The next regular Board of Education Meeting is scheduled for May 1, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., in the LMC and via Zoom. Other upcoming committee meetings are as foll ows: a joint BOE/SBC at 7pm on April 11, Curriculum on April 22 at 6pm on Zoom, and Policy on May 7 at 6:30pm on Zoom.