By Michelle L. Santoro

Sherman – In under one hour and with no public comments, the Sherman Board of Education (“BOE” or “Board”) wrapped up its final meeting of the school year with just one resident in attendance. 

Board Chair Matt Vogt noted his attendance at the recent Sherman School graduation which “is always a great event,” he said. “We had some really great student speakers giving speeches,” a sentiment echoed by other Board members. Mr. Vogt noted his appreciation for the administration for “everything that we worked on this year.”

Superintendent Dr. Patricia Cosentino complimented everyone “for an excellent end to the school year.”  She summarized all the end-of-year activities.  She further congratulated the eighth grade and high school graduates before wishing them well on their next chapter. Victoria Butler, the middle school Spanish teacher, was named Teacher of the Year.  Cosentino noted the success of the Nostalgia Walk, which included approximately thirty visitors. “It was a really nice morning.” 

Cosentino advised that “we’re all set with the church for pre-K” without the need for planning and zoning approval, per legal requirements obtained by First Selectman Don Lowe.  She announced that she signed the lease for the school’s business office and her desk, which will be in the office near Sacred Grounds at 1 Rte. 37 East.  Cosentino took time to congratulate the New Fairfield Rebels boys’ and girls’ lacrosse teams, both winning the State Championships.  She noted that Dr. Renee Leekin’s son plays on the boys’ team.  “We’re very proud of them,” Cosentino beamed.  She ended her report by thanking the Board for all they do throughout the year and wished all a happy summer. 

Dr. Pat and her team briefly summarized progress on administrative goals.  Dr. Karen Fildes provided an overview of Student Achievement and Functional Growth, and Curriculum and Development, highlighting three main goals.   The past year there was a strong focus on professional development and having a WIN attitude.  The teachers utilized a new professional learning plan, which is crafted by teachers individually.  Much of the year was spent revamping the intervention program, moving to a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) model, which looks at “the whole child.”  Dr. Leekin spoke about the Special Education Department – looking at “the entire roadmap.”  She said they are focusing on helping students continue their success throughout high school.  Mr. Vogt asked questions regarding the identifying of students as those needing special education services.  Discussion ensued.

Dr. Mary Fernand discussed the school’s climate and culture.  She noted goals including showing students they are capable.  “I’m really proud of the work they are doing, trying to mentor each other and connect to the community,” she said.  Dr. Pat went on, “We’re excited about the new year and we’re ready to meet the new year with gratitude and patience.”  Mr. Vogt commented and thanked all.  Member Tim Laughlin suggested adding prohibiting the use of cell phones in school to goals.      

Following brief discussion, Mr. Vogt made a motion to approve the Superintendent Contract for the 2025-26 School Year, which passed unanimously.  He then made a motion, following discussion, to approve Tuition Payment for a Sherman student to attend Bethel High School for its NJROTC Program. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0.

The Board voted unanimously to approve the following policy changes: Policy 5142(a): School Safety, Preparation, Response, and After Action, Policy 9222(a): Resignation/ Removal of a Board Officer/Censure, and Policy 5131.601(a) /4118.236/4218.236: Medical (Palliative) Use of Marijuana.  Although there was no discussion, the following policy changes were on the agenda for a first reading: Policy #9311: Formulation, Adoption, Amendment of Policies, By Laws, and Administrative Regulations, Policy #9273: Civility Code, Policy #9321.2: Electronic Board of Education Meetings and Policy #9327.1: Board Member Use of Social Media.  All will be added to the next meeting’s agenda for a second reading.

As usual, from an administrative standpoint, the Board quickly reviewed and approved the minutes from the June 4 regular board meeting and the June 12 Policy Committee meeting, as well as personnel action and the monthly enrollment report.

The next regular monthly Board of Education Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., in the LMC and via Zoom.