{"utterances":[{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":0.47,"end_sec":11.35,"similarity":0.763,"text":"Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the Melrose School Committee meeting of Tuesday, August 18th, 2026. Ms. O'Connor, would you kindly call the roll?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=0s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":17.72,"end_sec":23.91,"similarity":0.748,"text":"That does constitute a quorum. There are four of us present, so let us please rise for the pledge.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=17s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":44.27,"end_sec":64.69,"similarity":0.82,"text":"And just to note that this meeting is being recorded by MNTV and is streaming live. So thank you for that. First, motion via unanimous consent to open public comment. Is there anyone in the room who would like to come speak at public comment?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=44s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":79.61,"end_sec":87.73,"similarity":0.754,"text":"Thank you, Ms. Thompson and Ms. Joyal. Welcome. And would you like to formally introduce yourselves and let us know what you're thinking?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=79s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":428.41,"end_sec":445.64,"similarity":0.809,"text":"Very good. I don't see anyone else signed up to speak. So, Ms. O'Connor, is there anyone online this evening? Very good. Then a motion via unanimous consent to close public comment. Next on our agenda is the announcements of the superintendent.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=428s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":783.32,"end_sec":794.7,"similarity":0.766,"text":"Great. And I agree, that would be extremely helpful, and I really appreciate your adding that to the detail that's in the sheet above. Any other questions or any questions on that? Ms. Holleran?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=783s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":917.75,"end_sec":982.91,"similarity":0.821,"text":"Very good. Any last things? That's very good. Thank you so much for that, Superintendent Berman. Next on our agenda is the consent agenda, which tonight contains warrants FY27 refunds S27008 in the amount of $20,642.12. FY27 school S27009 in the amount of $395,255.36. FY27 August debit card S27010 in the amount of $1,430 even. FY27 July high school student activity wire S27011 in the amount of $1812.39. And FY27 July MVMS student activity wire S27012 in the amount of $8,338.14. As well as the regular meeting minutes of July 28, 2026. Policy KBA, school-parents relations goals, and the memorial naming proposal. Would anybody like to remove anything from the consent agenda?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=917s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":984.48,"end_sec":1011.86,"similarity":0.813,"text":"Seeing none, is there a motion for approval? So moved. Motion made by Ms. Holleran, seconded by Ms. Rossi-Thomas. All in favor? Opposed? That motion carries unanimously with three absent. Next on our agenda is the finance and facilities subcommittee. First on that agenda is a vote on the monthly budget summary grants and revolving accounts. So through the superintendent to Mr. Kelly, would you like to provide an update, please?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=984s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":1031.98,"end_sec":1036.18,"similarity":0.736,"text":"Any questions on all three of those reports?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=1031s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":1045.35,"end_sec":1047.19,"similarity":0.673,"text":"Seeing none, may I have a motion for approval? Made by Ms.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=1045s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":1047.87,"end_sec":1069.24,"similarity":0.786,"text":"Rossi-Thomas, seconded by Ms. Holleran. Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor? Opposed? That motion carries unanimously with three absent. And Mr. Kelly, a question pursuant to all of this, especially the budget summary. Do you have an idea when the city expects to roll the books?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=1047s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":1084.24,"end_sec":1098.49,"similarity":0.803,"text":"Great. That would be very helpful just to give us a sense of when you're going to be in effect starting clean and ready to go, and hopefully can put one of the three years you are working on continuously behind you and move on.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=1084s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":1113.57,"end_sec":1119.82,"similarity":0.744,"text":"Next on our agenda is the rental agreement and rates. Superintendent, would you like to speak to that?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=1113s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":1495.09,"end_sec":1497.54,"similarity":0.636,"text":"Seeing none, I would entertain a motion.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=1495s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":1509.76,"end_sec":1532.63,"similarity":0.753,"text":"Do I have a second? Yeah. Second. Second by Ms. Leo, made by Ms. Rozzie Thomas. Any further discussion? Seeing none, all in favor? All opposed? That motion carries unanimously with three absent. And the last item on our Finance and Facilities subcommittee this evening is the closure of inactive student activity accounts. Mr. Kelly?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=1509s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":1859.99,"end_sec":1862.62,"similarity":0.627,"text":"Any other questions? Ms. Rossi-Thomas?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=1859s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":1999.93,"end_sec":2060.72,"similarity":0.806,"text":"And I echo those comments in noting that DESE is very specific about what they allow and what they do not allow. And we certainly don't want any findings, so to me, this is compliance in a key way. And to Ms. Rossi-Thomas's point, checking off those compliance categories and developing systems and workflows sets the district up for continuing very good work, and it's much appreciated. So with that, do I have a motion to approve the closure of the inactive student activity accounts as presented? Made by Ms. Leo, seconded by Ms. Holleran. Any further discussion? Seeing none, all in favor? Opposed? That motion carries unanimously with three absent. That concludes finance and facilities. We'll now move on to policy and planning with the recommended changes to policy JF: admissions.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=1999s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":2061.42,"end_sec":2064.26,"similarity":0.606,"text":"We have had this discussion","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=2061s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":2064.96,"end_sec":2077.56,"similarity":0.753,"text":"in this room, and I don't believe there were any additional changes recommended. So if there's any question or discussion, now would be the time to have that.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=2064s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":2090.22,"end_sec":2161.75,"similarity":0.795,"text":"Very good. Unless there's further discussion, do I have a motion for approval? Made by Ms. Holleran, seconded by Ms. Rossi-Thomas. Seeing no discussion, all in favor? Opposed? That motion carries unanimously with three absent. And secondly and finally, under policy and planning, the strategic plan. This item was on the agenda for the last meeting. Superintendent Berman has provided a strategic plan update memo in the packet indicating what will come next. And while we had originally thought that we would be having a different kind of discussion at this meeting, it was clear that having the leadership team have a lot of discussion and consideration around what this might look like for the future will certainly produce a product that is better for our consideration, and also more inclusive of ideas and comments that the group may have. So unless there's a burning question, it's here for your information with the next agenda containing more substantive information based on what happens over the next week and beyond.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=2090s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":2162.85,"end_sec":2169.22,"similarity":0.679,"text":"With that, we will move on to educational programs and personnel. Ms. Rossi-Thomas.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=2162s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":2443.09,"end_sec":2450.34,"similarity":0.77,"text":"Driskell, go ahead. I just want to say thank you for the very detailed memo. Much appreciated. And because of that, I have no questions-","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=2443s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":2779.05,"end_sec":2815.43,"similarity":0.839,"text":"Thank you, Ms. Razi-Thomas. Next on our agenda is the announcements of the chair, the first item being our school site council election process. This is an annual exercise that the superintendent and leadership puts forward with the understanding that the site council is a legal body, and I believe must convene within 40 days of the beginning of school. And so that's why this is appearing on our agenda this evening, and it is recorded as not require a vote. Superintendent, is there anything you would like to add about this?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=2779s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":2926.05,"end_sec":2943.18,"similarity":0.822,"text":"Thanks. Thank you. And I would just note that it might be helpful to all of us to read in the MASC Book of Laws. Site councils are created by statute, so that might be a source that we could all learn a little something from. So we all have a little homework to do.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=2926s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":2947.43,"end_sec":2952.68,"similarity":0.701,"text":"It's so exciting. So I was like, \"Perfect timing.\" It is the most wonderful time of the year. There's no question.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=2947s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":2956.45,"end_sec":2974.51,"similarity":0.792,"text":"As you can see, Mr. Kelly continues to update the rolling agenda, which is extremely helpful to us all. So take note of that. If there's anything that you see there that is a glaring omission or you have any questions about, please do reach out to him. And lastly, any outreach reports?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=2956s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-08-18","video_id":1278,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee August 18th 2026","meeting_id":6012,"start_sec":3016.04,"end_sec":3031.09,"similarity":0.786,"text":"Seeing none, that concludes our business of this evening. Do I have a motion to adjourn? Made by Ms. Razi-Thomas. Seconded by Ms. Leo. Seeing no discussion, all in favor? Opposed? That motion passes unanimously with three absent, and we are adjourned.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1219393411#t=3016s","page_url":"/video/1278"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":1041.9,"end_sec":1123.15,"similarity":0.818,"text":"Yeah, thanks. Just a couple of things to think about, and thank you so much, Superintendent. I don't think anybody here would've expected you to have procedures that you would bring forward tonight. So all grace on that. I think you've been pretty busy working on many things. So appreciate your comments on that. I have just thought a lot about this and thinking about teachers who we've lost in the district over the years, and whether we've named for them, whether we've named for children, whether we've named-- Like who do we name something for? Where does that come from? And I think a lot of thought went into this policy in 2023 to really be thoughtful and respectful of this. So that's just one thing I've been thinking about And I've also been thinking about what are the different alternatives when we do lose someone who we care about very much and is part of our district family. It can be a place, it can be a scholarship, the permanent scholarship fund. So it can be something like that. So there are a wide variety of ways, I think, to honor people who we have lost and care about. I just wanted to share some things that I'm thinking about as we walk through this process. Thank you.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=1041s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":1476.82,"end_sec":1488.44,"similarity":0.757,"text":"Seven. Thank you so much. First on our agenda this evening is the budget summary with grants and revolving accounts through the superintendent to Mr. Kelley, please.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=1476s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":1553.02,"end_sec":1555.7,"similarity":0.613,"text":"Questions for Mr. Kelley or the superintendent?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=1553s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":1730.74,"end_sec":1769.87,"similarity":0.831,"text":"Yep. Thank you. Thank you. Any other questions? Seeing none, do I have a motion for approval? Made by Mr. Kelley. Second. Seconded by Ms. Holleran. Any further discussion? Seeing none, all in favor? Opposed? That motion carries unanimously. Next on our agenda is the end of year report audit. And just to clarify that this is actually a review. It's not an audit in the way that we think of the city finances being audited. So this is a financial report. Mr. Kelley, I think you have some good news to share with us.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=1730s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":1796.99,"end_sec":1799.36,"similarity":0.667,"text":"Any questions for Mr. Kelley on that?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=1796s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":1800.95,"end_sec":1809.33,"similarity":0.804,"text":"I just want to applaud Mr. Kelley for, once again Having a clean audit report, I think this is four years in a row?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=1800s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":1813.83,"end_sec":1830.33,"similarity":0.754,"text":"Three in a row, yeah. So I'll give you three and a half, because I know you guys worked really hard on it. And you have all been meticulous in working with your colleagues who have supported that work. So that's a team effort, and much appreciated.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=1813s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":1833.58,"end_sec":1842.38,"similarity":0.696,"text":"Absolutely. Thank you for that. And seeing there are no more items on finance and facilities, that concludes our work here.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=1833s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":2399.43,"end_sec":2443.95,"similarity":0.796,"text":"I appreciate all that. I do think that in policy, having sort of the broader language allows the superintendent to perform the how or to execute the how. So to me, a lot of this is in how you train staff and what your in your onboarding and in your yearly, however you do professional development around training, that it be emphasized how this is executed. And I think then it could kind of do both things. So we say the what, and then the superintendent does the how. Yeah. So that's why I'm comfortable with this language.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=2399s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-07-28","video_id":1,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee July 28th 2026","meeting_id":6004,"start_sec":5886.36,"end_sec":5918.14,"similarity":0.776,"text":"Ms. Driscoll? Yeah, just a reminder that the MASC, MASS, MASC joint conference is the first week of November. It will be held in Danvers this year, so easy to get to, and especially for our superintendent, hopefully too, if she is available. And very excited about that, and looking forward to it. So I would just remind folks to let Ms. O'Connor know if you're interested in attending, and she will register you.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1213778155#t=5886s","page_url":"/video/1"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":517.41,"end_sec":532.78,"similarity":0.746,"text":"Thank you so much, Chair Kelley. First on our agenda tonight is the monthly budget summary and the grants reports. Through the superintendent to Mr. Kelley, please.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=517s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":555.9,"end_sec":563.27,"similarity":0.703,"text":"And I apologize for misspeaking. It is the grants report as a standalone. Any questions for Mr. Kelley? Ms. Gregoratis.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=555s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":612.91,"end_sec":618.9,"similarity":0.725,"text":"Other questions? I just had one. Mr. Kelley, will the","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=612s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":619.54,"end_sec":633.41,"similarity":0.759,"text":"FY25 grants be completely expended? And if so, when will that be? It's, I believe, the Title I, Title IIA, and Title III grants I'm talking about specifically.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=619s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":650.41,"end_sec":654.91,"similarity":0.736,"text":"Very good. And what is the schedule? So when would we expect to see these come off of the-","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=650s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":660.82,"end_sec":663.45,"similarity":0.688,"text":"Oh, it says 9/3/26. I apologize. Yes. Thank you.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=660s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":665.45,"end_sec":673.8,"similarity":0.666,"text":"They're 9/3/26 included that. Which makes sense, the end of the federal fiscal year. Thank you for that. I would certainly entertain a motion to approve the grants report.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=665s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":674.47,"end_sec":693.85,"similarity":0.772,"text":"Made by Chair Kelley, seconded by Ms. Holleran. Any further discussion? Seeing none, all in favor, oppose that motion carries unanimously with one absent. The next item is an informational report through the superintendent to Mr. Kelley to speak about special education expenses.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=674s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":780.39,"end_sec":829.76,"similarity":0.788,"text":"Very good. Seeing no more questions, we'll move on to the last item on our agenda, which is the very happy challenge of exploring some additional Melrose Public Schools funding. We're going to look at this through two lenses, so a couple of decisions need to be made. One is whether to accept the money from the City of Melrose, and that would be one discussion. And then the next would be how we would like to see that money deployed. Whether you want to make that decision now or at a future date would be included in that discussion. So, I would certainly invite the superintendent and/or Deputy Superintendent Kelley to speak to that. Thank you.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=780s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":885.72,"end_sec":905.95,"similarity":0.685,"text":"Very good. And I think we all express appreciation to the mayor and her administration for allotting us the opportunity to accept this money in service to our students. So any additional questions for Mr. or any questions for Mr. Kelley?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=885s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":928.22,"end_sec":956.35,"similarity":0.76,"text":"Motion to accept by Chair Kelley. Seconded- ... motion by Ms. Leo. Any further discussion or questions? Seeing none, all in favor? Opposed? That motion carries unanimously with one absent. And as noted, this packet document was updated today with some additional information. I would certainly invite the superintendent and Mr. Kelley to speak to that.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=928s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1212.06,"end_sec":1232.06,"similarity":0.809,"text":"I just have a clarifying question. So, I think you've laid out your proposal nicely. When you say at the top of page three, we are considering reinstatement, is that a proposal and included in the funding, or is that separate? I got confused by the words considering reinstatement.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1212s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1242.56,"end_sec":1249.64,"similarity":0.766,"text":"Questions for the superintendent or Mr. Kelley on this proposal?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1242s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1475.32,"end_sec":1480.71,"similarity":0.667,"text":"Additional comments or questions? I will take the opportunity to","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1475s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1481.46,"end_sec":1507.45,"similarity":0.781,"text":"ask a couple of questions here. I appreciate the thought that went into this. I have a lot of concerns about mathematics. I think the report that we're going to hear tonight from Ms. Acevedo speaks very Seriously to district-wide macro stagnation, to beginning of year and end of year grade eight math, which declined.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1481s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1510.94,"end_sec":1522.04,"similarity":0.761,"text":"At MHS, grade 10 math proficiency finished the year at 15%. So I pretty strongly believe that","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1510s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1522.8,"end_sec":1529.25,"similarity":0.719,"text":"visual and performing arts are absolutely critical to our district. I think","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1522s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1529.9,"end_sec":1545.12,"similarity":0.776,"text":"we could achieve many of the goals of the whole child. With the structure we have now, ideal, it is not even close. I think our kids have to learn mathematics, and I'm frustrated","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1529s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1546.48,"end_sec":1722.84,"similarity":0.853,"text":"in a good way and believe that all students need a proficiency in mathematics. And I think a lot of the data, and Ms. Acevedo, I would look to you to correct me, but around high-dose tutoring and curriculum materials and teacher training and individual outreach and dedicated targeted student interventions around mathematics are critical to what happens to students as they continue on their trajectory when they leave us. If they are not adequately prepared in mathematics, how are we sure they're going to be successful in college, or as successful as they could be? This does not speak to our wonderful teachers or anything else. It is not uncommon, I would say, anywhere in the state to have these struggles with mathematics in middle school and high school. But I think that is a must-have. So thinking about nice-to-haves and must-haves, I think it's great to have visual and performing arts, and I appreciate how that's tied into our strategic plan. But if our strategic plan doesn't include core subjects like English and mathematics, then I think we're not supporting our students in some of those critically foundational ways. The other thing is that I'm very concerned, as we discussed before, about federal grants and hiring a person as opposed to putting in some targeted interventions, like one that maybe one-time funds could be used for, gives us some cushion that would be helpful. And the other piece of that is coming up, we're going to deal with early childhood legislation and graduation requirement legislation. I know I have a lot of concerns around unfunded mandates and determining how are we going to, if everything isn't funded, because I think our world is hard enough when we make financial decisions, but I certainly wouldn't want to be in the state legislature right now staring down the barrel of federal challenges and the many competing priorities around housing, healthcare, and so many other issues. So I'm very concerned about being a little too ambitious in this area before we're 100% sure we're targeting those core subjects that lead to having kids follow their passions in many areas, not just STEM, but in life. So that is why I appreciate the bridge. I think that's very important.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1546s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1723.45,"end_sec":1736.47,"similarity":0.776,"text":"I certainly support the mandatory contractual obligations. We have made a commitment to our Units A, B, and C, and I would fully expect that we would maintain those","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1723s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1737.2,"end_sec":1770.19,"similarity":0.819,"text":"commitments, showing fidelity to our work with our educators. I would reluctantly but strongly disagree with the visual and performing arts, not because I don't think it's important, and we've heard from a lot of folks, but because I think it's less of a must-have than mathematics. So I would propose taking that $140,000 and putting it in the teaching and learning line instead of in the secondary line.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1737s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1772.56,"end_sec":1774.57,"similarity":0.686,"text":"Is there additional discussion?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1772s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":1782.83,"end_sec":1801.45,"similarity":0.786,"text":"The other thing we can do, and please correct me if I'm wrong, you may vote a portion of this or you may vote the entire amount. I do not believe that it all needs to be voted tonight, but please correct me if I'm wrong. Mayor Grigoris, please.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=1782s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":2132.66,"end_sec":2142.6,"similarity":0.78,"text":"Is there a second? Second. Made by Chair Kelley, seconded by Mayor Grigoris. Further discussion? Seeing none. All in favor?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=2132s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":2170.43,"end_sec":2174.03,"similarity":0.682,"text":"Okay, very good, and that included both pieces.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=2170s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":2181.34,"end_sec":2185.34,"similarity":0.707,"text":"Yes. Well, that was my question to Mr. Kelley. I would think we would want to do that.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=2181s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":2189.25,"end_sec":2210.88,"similarity":0.804,"text":"And we can take those on a group basis, maybe leaving separate administration and district-wide as a separate category. So, relative to the will of the committee, all the others could be together, or you could do each one individually, but that is up to you to decide. Mr. Hartmann.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=2189s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":2221.88,"end_sec":2230.26,"similarity":0.736,"text":"Made by Mr. Hartmann, seconded by Mr. Kelley. Any further discussion? Seeing none. All in favor? All opposed?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=2221s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":2231.16,"end_sec":2244.03,"similarity":0.723,"text":"And one absent. So five in favor, one opposed, and one absent. And then the administrative district-wide line, is there a motion on that line? Mr. Kelley.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=2231s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":2250.27,"end_sec":2260.19,"similarity":0.781,"text":"Is there a second on that motion made by Ms. Holleran? Seeing no further discussion, all in favor? Opposed? Abstain? And","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=2250s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":2260.94,"end_sec":2272.88,"similarity":0.723,"text":"one is absent, so that is five in favor, one abstention, and one absent. And that concludes our business under finance and facilities.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=2260s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":4351.24,"end_sec":4354.24,"similarity":0.626,"text":"Yes. Or no, the one on the right-hand side.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=4351s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":4371.68,"end_sec":4416.85,"similarity":0.794,"text":"Yeah. And I'm perfectly fine going either way. I just see this as a core value, as a value of expression. And I think it's nice when the committee can explain and speak to the values of the district, and then the implementation piece, how the superintendent may or may not want to deploy that. Mm-hmm. I see that sort of as a separate piece. But I thought that your point was compelling about recognition programs being important. And so I do see those as very different things because I think this language is very general. So, I just thought that was an interesting point that I'm glad you brought up.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=4371s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":4563.05,"end_sec":4567.05,"similarity":0.677,"text":"No, I was going to say- Ms. Driscoll ... I think you both have very compelling arguments, and I would withdraw my motion.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=4563s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":5511.12,"end_sec":5517.49,"similarity":0.612,"text":"Yeah. I would just motion for an amendment, on page 64 of the packet.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=5511s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":5518.2,"end_sec":5591.07,"similarity":0.799,"text":"I just want to add two words for clarification under the strategic plan, and Mr. Hartman will help me here as the chair of this policy and planning subcommittee. But the words currently are, \"Vice Chair Hartman reported that the three-year strategic plan is nearing completion.\" I just thought it would be helpful to say the current plan, because I didn't want someone to think that the committee is completing a three-year strategic plan. And then, it's page 64 of 119, and it's page six of the minutes. And the other piece of that is the second sentence, \"He, along with Ms. Driscoll, have consulted with MASC regarding support and the potential for a summer strategic planning...\" I think you were going to say retreat. I think retreat was- Process. Yeah ... process. Process is fine. I just wanted to complete that, what is our intention? Just to be clear with the community what we're working on and what we're doing. So that would be my amendment, is to just add those two words.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=5518s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-23","video_id":8,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 23rd 2026","meeting_id":5974,"start_sec":5595.07,"end_sec":5619.77,"similarity":0.799,"text":"Yes. \"Vice Chair Hartman reported that the current three-year strategic plan is nearing completion.\" Mm-hmm. Would you say that is accurate, Superintendent Hartman? Very good. Thank you. And then in the second sentence, starting with, \"Have consulted with MASC regarding support and the potential for a summer strategic planning process,\"","url":"https://vimeo.com/1204029576#t=5595s","page_url":"/video/8"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-09","video_id":13,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 9th 2026","meeting_id":5958,"start_sec":943.64,"end_sec":955.01,"similarity":0.746,"text":"Thank you so much, Chair Kelley. First on our agenda this evening is the monthly budget summary and revolving accounts. Uh, and through the superintendent, if I may turn it over to Mr. Kelley, please.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1199942771#t=943s","page_url":"/video/13"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-09","video_id":13,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 9th 2026","meeting_id":5958,"start_sec":1007.42,"end_sec":1012.21,"similarity":0.686,"text":"Why don't we begin with the monthly budget summary? Any questions for Mr. Kelley?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1199942771#t=1007s","page_url":"/video/13"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-09","video_id":13,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 9th 2026","meeting_id":5958,"start_sec":1030.5,"end_sec":1041.41,"similarity":0.636,"text":"Made by Mr. Kelley, seconded by Ms. Razi Thomas. Seeing no discussion, all in favor? Opposed? And that motion carries unanimously.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1199942771#t=1030s","page_url":"/video/13"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-09","video_id":13,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 9th 2026","meeting_id":5958,"start_sec":1042.25,"end_sec":1054.38,"similarity":0.658,"text":"Next on our agenda is a report on the food service audit closeout. Superintendent or Mr. Kelley? Mr. Kelley, please.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1199942771#t=1042s","page_url":"/video/13"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-06-09","video_id":13,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee June 9th 2026","meeting_id":5958,"start_sec":1200.11,"end_sec":1255.36,"similarity":0.794,"text":"Sure. Any other questions or comments? I'd just like to add that this kind of audit, and I appreciate Mr. Kelley's attitude, I guess, is the best way to say it, in always looking for up-leveling and learning and growing as a district. Really appreciate that. These audits are not easy at all, and they are very rigorous because they have to comply with federal guidelines. So there's an additional element and watchfulness that goes into this. So, congratulations to Mr. Kelley and your amazing team, and our partners in the school nutrition area in the Melrose Public Schools, because again, this is very not easy, and doing a lot of extra work outside of their regular work that is focused directly on nutrition for students. So thank you- Thank you ... for that. And with that, that concludes finances.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1199942771#t=1200s","page_url":"/video/13"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1251.93,"end_sec":1267.31,"similarity":0.779,"text":"Thank you, Chair Kelley. First on our agenda this evening is the monthly budget summary, grants, and revolving accounts. So let's start with the monthly budget summary through the superintendent. To Mr. Kelley, please.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1251s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1299.15,"end_sec":1303.18,"similarity":0.669,"text":"Are there any questions on the monthly budget summary?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1299s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1305.43,"end_sec":1314.06,"similarity":0.697,"text":"Seeing none, if we might move on to our grants report. Mr. Kelley.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1305s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1359.77,"end_sec":1367.64,"similarity":0.73,"text":"Questions on the grants document and the grants that we are accessing. Mr. Hartman?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1359s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1417.94,"end_sec":1451.47,"similarity":0.781,"text":"Other questions? And just for group understanding, the implementation of the LED lighting is intended to improve utility costs as one benefit. Is that correct? That's correct. So it's really an investment in savings or an opportunity to realize savings. So I think it's important for the community at large to know that the mayor's office, the school department, is always looking for ways to use those investments wisely that will ultimately save us money in the long term.And","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1417s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1452.15,"end_sec":1457.53,"similarity":0.7,"text":"finally, we have our revolving accounts. Mr. Kelley, please.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1452s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1485.97,"end_sec":1489.91,"similarity":0.721,"text":"Excellent. Questions on the revolving accounts?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1485s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1491.12,"end_sec":1522.99,"similarity":0.752,"text":"Seeing none, I'd certainly entertain a motion for a group approval of the documents before you, the budget summary, the grants, and the revolving accounts. Made by Chair Kelley, seconded by Ms. Razi Thomas. Further discussion? Seeing none, all in favor? Opposed? That motion carries unanimously. Next on our agenda is our report on the special education expenses. Mr. Kelley, is there anything you'd like to add relative to this report?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1491s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1557.0,"end_sec":1561.12,"similarity":0.714,"text":"Thank you. Any questions? Mr. Hartman?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1557s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1634.39,"end_sec":1650.02,"similarity":0.747,"text":"Lastly, we have a Chartwells, our school nutrition purveyor, if you will, update and FY27 meal prices, and we will be looking for a motion on the pricing.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1634s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":1786.84,"end_sec":1799.46,"similarity":0.681,"text":"Do I have a second? Seconded by Ms. Holleran. Any additional questions, comments? Seeing none, all in favor? Opposed? And that motion carries unanimously, and that does conclude Finance and Facilities for this evening.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=1786s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":3779.28,"end_sec":3829.28,"similarity":0.76,"text":"Yeah, just you made me think of sort of where we are relative to the rest of the districts around the commonwealth. And enrollment is falling throughout the commonwealth and throughout the country, birth rates and immigration situations and so forth. So the fact that we can at least come close to maintaining enrollments- Mm-hmm ... is amazing, and something that I know our funding is based on. So it's something that you collectively, we collectively watch very carefully, because it does depend on what we can offer all students as a group. So the fact that you folks are working really hard to keep very high standards for our students in general is impressive in light of what's happening around the commonwealth.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=3779s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":4428.27,"end_sec":4452.19,"similarity":0.773,"text":"Thank you so much. So, I think the plan is great. But I really want to speak to the people in front of us. Ms. Acevedo, you always bring it to a new level, and congratulations on that. Outstanding work. Ms. Jones, as far as I'm concerned, you're one of those unsung heroes in this district. You have done everything. You never say no, which is kind of probably a problem-","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=4428s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":4453.0,"end_sec":4476.14,"similarity":0.764,"text":"... for you and your family. But you are always willing to stand up for children, and it shows what a high-quality educator you are by virtue of the fact that not only you do what you do in your classroom, but you have just given us, you have brought to life how artificial intelligence is used and deployed in the classroom by teaching us. So, I thank you both.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=4453s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":6224.18,"end_sec":6257.74,"similarity":0.779,"text":"Ms. Driscoll. And I think we always want to, and I think Mr. Hartman referred to this at some point, is have our attorney take a quick look at these, have eyes on that, just to ensure that everything makes sense to us, and that there's nothing that we might be doing, especially if we decide to shift a little bit from the standard policy- ... to solve potentially a challenge that we've had in our district, and we might want to be a little bit more prescriptive about. So we would think about that too in the context of each policy. Mm-hmm.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=6224s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-05-19","video_id":18,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee May 19th 2026","meeting_id":5930,"start_sec":6412.43,"end_sec":6889.31,"similarity":0.837,"text":"Thank you, Chair Kelley. So a couple overarching things that I thought might be helpful to know. One is the recognition and appreciation of the challenge for the superintendent in this process. This is the only fully public performance review in the district. And for anyone who works in private industry, your performance review is never on YouTube. So I just want to recognize and appreciate that this is a very difficult process, and all grace to those who go through this process. Second of all, this is not a punitive review. It is designed for understanding, collaboration, and moving into this cycle. So there's a rhythm to this cycle, and it's designed to improve student outcomes across the district. With that in mind, we operate based on the DESE Superintendent's Evaluation rubric. It is the same rubric, in effect, for anyone who is licensed by the department. So whether you are a superintendent, a school business administrator, a teacher, a principal, anyone who earns a license through the department follows a rubric. The standards, there are four standards and 21 indicators. Those are the same. They are written differently. And then we would be rating based on four performance levels, if you will. And they're in all the literature and so forth. But I would strongly urge everyone to refer to the DESE website to find, you can find it very quickly, review what is there, just to get an understanding of what the language is around that. The process begins with the goal setting by the superintendent. In the past, it's generally been September or OctoberAnd it is impossible for a superintendent to have a goal for every standard and every indicator. So under that goal-setting process, it's normal for the superintendent to select, and have approved by the committee, a selection of those things that should be responsive to the needs of the district at that time or during that year. And they should be SMART goals, and they should be achievable, and they should be able to have evidence provided for them to show outcomes. So there's the goal setting. Then there's the evidence. So it's a conversation and a depiction aligning with the goals that provides links and narrative, and it shouldn't be a surprise to the committee because these are conversations that should be happening in this chamber or it's, for example, in an email. So you could have goals and so forth, and you have situations that come up during the year, and they have to be addressed. So those can always wiggle a little bit so that when you have situations that must be addressed, you could work within those that allows the superintendent to provide evidence of that kind of support where it might not necessarily have been called out in the initial goals. So now we have the goal setting and the evidence. Then we have the evaluation form. There are two ways that we have done that in the past. One is to have an Excel spreadsheet with those particular standards and indicators called out and how that looks. So you take from the rubric, the expectations and criteria for each of those blocks, if you will. So the standard and indicator, and then the performance level within that. And so you can color it in or shade it in on an Excel spreadsheet. The second way is to use the evaluation form that's provided in the rubric itself, where you are check-marking off your performance evaluations, and then you write a narrative piece at the bottom. So the committee will want to decide, unless you want a third option, which is fine too. Those are two options. Sometimes it's easier to say the red one or the blue one, right? But that's up to the committee as a whole. After those individual evaluations are completed, those are provided to the chair, who prepares a report. So that report would come back. It's generally one to two pages, and it summarizes what the committee has indicated. That allows the committee to assess whether the body feels that that is a representation, an accurate representation, because we would see what the entire committee has provided individually, and then did the chair show fidelity to that in a way that respects what the committee as a whole wishes to see. And at that time, once that's approved, that information would be provided to Ms. O'Connor, who would submit one rating to DESE. That's generally, I believe if the date's the same, the last due date I heard was August 1st. If that's changed, then we would need to abide by that, but there is a deadline. It's generally in the summer. So that is oftentimes the cycle, if you will. And to add just a couple other quick things, we have a formative review and a summative review. So you go from goal setting to formative, which would be January or February, and then a summative at the end of the year, following a cycle similar to every other educator. The process is mutually understood, so there are no surprises for the superintendent. That is never the intention, and that is never how we want our leadership to feel. We want this to be a collaborative process with recommendations for uplift. Here's an area that we can work on together. Having good conversations about the elements, what they are, and picking a limited number that's actually achievable. In no way would the committee ever want to say, \"No, you have to do these things and these other things,\" because the intention is never to set someone up to fail. That is not who I believe this body to be, nor should it be anybody. And relative to progress on goals, they can be related to the focus indicators or progress on the goals only. You have a little flexibility there. That's in the weeds. So, that can be discussed again as part of the total process. And for our new members, you would not be permitted to make comments based on when you were not a seated member. So while you would've followed the process closely, no doubt, as you were campaigning and running for the seat, it would not be appropriate to comment on that time period, only once you are seated, and that's really important. So again, following a clear process, making it collaborative, making it understood by everyone, and having us all understand what we're trying to do, and then using as our foundation should we have questions or any confusion, referring back to the DESE information can be very helpful, and there are a whole subset of resources there for us as a group. Does that answer your question, Mr. Kennedy?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1193819085#t=6412s","page_url":"/video/18"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-04-28","video_id":25,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee April 28th 2026","meeting_id":5894,"start_sec":457.59,"end_sec":470.71,"similarity":0.758,"text":"Good evening. This evening we have two items on our agenda. We're going to start with a discussion of grants through the superintendent. Mr. Kelley.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1187516745#t=457s","page_url":"/video/25"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-04-28","video_id":25,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee April 28th 2026","meeting_id":5894,"start_sec":503.45,"end_sec":506.22,"similarity":0.697,"text":"Questions relative to the grants report?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1187516745#t=503s","page_url":"/video/25"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-04-28","video_id":25,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee April 28th 2026","meeting_id":5894,"start_sec":507.24,"end_sec":524.12,"similarity":0.762,"text":"Seeing none, do I have a motion for approval? Made by Mr. Hartman, seconded by Ms. Holleran. Discussion? Seeing none, all in favor? Opposed? Thank you so much. Mr. Kelley, would you like to speak to the special education expense update through the superintendent?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1187516745#t=507s","page_url":"/video/25"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-04-28","video_id":25,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee April 28th 2026","meeting_id":5894,"start_sec":550.4,"end_sec":556.3,"similarity":0.728,"text":"Very good. Are there questions for Mr. Kelley or the superintendent relative to the special education report?","url":"https://vimeo.com/1187516745#t=550s","page_url":"/video/25"},{"person":"driscoll-margaret-raymond","date":"2026-04-28","video_id":25,"video_title":"Melrose School Committee April 28th 2026","meeting_id":5894,"start_sec":558.88,"end_sec":564.82,"similarity":0.727,"text":"Seeing none, no vote is needed on that, and that concludes finance and facilities for the evening.","url":"https://vimeo.com/1187516745#t=558s","page_url":"/video/25"}],"next_cursor":"u|2026-04-28|25|558.88"}