By Michelle L. Santoro
Sherman –Days before the start of Hanukkah, the Sherman Board of Education (“BOE and/or “Board”) met for its regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, December 6 in the Sherman School Library. Dr. Patricia Cosentino wished all a Happy Hanukkah for those who celebrate.
Before commencing with public comment, Board Chair Matt Vogt read into the record correspondence received from Jared Bonner expressing opposition to proposed policy P5145.53 Transgender and Gender Non-conforming Youth, which was on the agenda for a first reading. Mr. Bonner wrote, the “policy (as drafted) is extremely flawed and detrimental …” During public comments at the start of the meeting, several residents also voiced concern over the proposed policy. Erin Bonner opined that the policy, as drafted, violates Title IX and requested that it not be brought into the Sherman School. Molly Garcia also objected to the policy as drafted, particularly with respect to the bathrooms. Kristyn Maher objected to a provision regarding “non-disclosure” to the parents. Eric Maher questioned the Board on how females (girls) will be protected in restrooms. While public comment is not a question-and-answer forum, Mr. Vogt assured Mr. Maher that his concern will be considered. Later in the evening, the Board voted unanimously to send the proposed policy back to the Policy Committee for further review and discussion.
Mr. Vogt provided a brief overview of the Building Committee’s meeting, which took place on December 5, including discussion regarding the roof and plans to address such “stabilization” repair. In his chair report, Mr. Vogt mentioned ongoing conversations with the various school districts regarding a change to the school’s model. He also noted the recent attendance by a few Board members at the annual CABE event and mentioned the benefit of seeing that issues affecting Sherman also affect other districts. Member James Philipakos said, “It was a fantastic day,” discussing sessions he attended on mental health and technology. Mr. Vogt gave a shout-out to the school staff and administration for the recent Veteran’s Day celebration. Dr. Pat echoed the Chair’s sentiment regarding the celebration and included praise for the Seniors Luncheon and the “efforts by all coming together for such a wonderful day.”
Dr. Pat noted the Holiday Shop is open and asked parents to send money with their children for the purchase of small gifts. In her report, she advised Friday was pajama day, which raised money for the Connecticut Children’s Hospital. The Middle School chorus and band attended Western Regionals on Saturday, and its concert is scheduled for Thursday, December 14. Next Tuesday is Professional Development Day; an early dismissal is planned for students. Wednesday, December 13 is the elementary band and chorus concert. Dr. Pat said they’re still working on the “never-ending” Strategic Plan, and advised she is putting money in next year’s budget for a redesign of the school’s website. On that note, her budget presentation is scheduled for January 7. In closing, Dr. Pat wished a Happy and Healthy Holiday season to all.
In new business, discussion was had regarding more than $150,000 that is needed for additional BOE expenses, including for special education. Mr. Vogt recommended sending correspondence to the Board of Selectmen (“BOS”) as soon as possible as notification that a request for funds will follow. Dr. Pat noted this is the first time she has had to ask for additional funds, but this process was requested by the BOS.
Discussion ensued regarding a request for funding for an enrollment study by Slam. Mr. Vogt advised that Slam is an organization that uses a lot of demographics to prepare enrollment projection reports. He noted the Board’s need to understand enrollment projections and verify the various projections. The Board unanimously voted to engage Slam and request funding therefor.
On motion of Mr. Vogt, the Board unanimously voted to adopt the following policies: Board Budget Procedures & Line-Item Transfers, which replaces the current policy – P3160, Sales & Disposal of Books, Equipment & Supplies, which replaces P3260, Gifts, Grants & Bequests, which replaces P3280, Purchasing, which replaces P3320-21, Code of Conduct for Federal Procurements, and IDEA Fiscal Compliance. All policy changes approved were on November’s agenda for a first reading. Without discussion, changes to the following policies were on the agenda for a first reading: P5112.3 Dropouts, P6159 IEP/Special Education Program, Administration of Student Medication in the Schools, Admission to the Public Schools at or Before Age Five, and Attendance, Truancy, and Chronic Absenteeism. All will be added to next month’s agenda for discussion and possible vote.
The next regular Board of Education Meeting is scheduled for January 3, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., in the LMC and via Zoom. The Maintenance Committee will meet the same day at 6:00 p.m. and the Curriculum Committee will meet February 27 at 6:00 p.m.