Jamestown Schools: A School-Community Partnership
"SCAN," issued by the Superintendent’s Office in conjunction with the School Committee, is designed to inform staff members and interested others of matters discussed and actions taken by the Jamestown School Committee at its most recent meeting. SCAN does not represent meeting minutes.
Letters received:
• From the Jamestown Substance Abuse Task Force, advocating for the maintenance of the school’s funding of the student assistance program.
• From Lisa Carlisle and Ann Zainyah, Lawn SIT Co-chairs, recognizing the school’s excellent music program.
• Noted: From Lisa Carlisle and Ann Zainyah, Lawn SIT Co-chairs, a letter in the Jamestown Press recognizing the achievement of Jamestown students -- the “return” on Jamestown’s continuing investment in the education.
• Noted: From Matthew Gregoire, Jamestown resident and senior at NKHS, a letter in the Jamestown Press describing NKHS’s efforts to “go green” and recommending Jamestown participation.
Consent Agenda: The committee approved the minutes of December 18; and payment of bills. The committee accepted the resignation of Sara Sweetman and the letter of intent to retire of Terry Kahn.
Food Service Update: The committee reviewed the monthly report on meal sales.
2nd Reading, Tobacco Policy: The committee voted to approve the policy.
2nd Reading, Hiring Policy: The committee voted to approve the policy.
Presentation of FY10 Budget: The committee welcomed State Representative Deb Ruggierio, Town Administrator Bruce Keiser and Town Councilors Mike White and Barbara Szepatowsi to the budget discussion. Superintendent Marcia Lukon explained the zero-based budgeting method employed in drafting the budget. The proposed $11,946,444 operating budget represents a 2.66% increase over FY09; projected total expenditures (with capital improvements included) are $12,214,932, a 3.09% increase. Assuming level funding of state aid, the town contribution of $11,442,910 represents a 2.50% increase over FY09. The superintendent outlined the major budget areas, shared enrollment projections, and identified the unknowns that could impact the budget: level of state aid and grant funding; number of retirees; the governor’s budget proposals; potential savings from participating in the stateside transportation pilot; military enrollment; fuel and energy costs; and the findings of the RIDE School Support System review. Student Services Director Dr. Robert Fricklas presented the $2,224,749 special education budget, which represents a 4.07% increase and requires the addition of one special education teacher assistant. Building and Grounds Director Lew Kitts presented the $199,600 capital budget (this total does not include the systemwide technology project, for which figures will be available at the next budget workshop). Finance Director Jane Littlefield walked the committee through the budget and answered questions. The committee commended the administrative team on drafting a lean budget that preserves services. Ms. Littlefield explained that if the district receives no state aid next year, the contribution needed from the town would increase to $11,824,333, a 5.92% increase. The committee discussed the need for a longer-term plan to adjust to decreased funding from the state and asked the administration to prepare a “broad brush” priority list of reductions to be made in the event of cuts in aid. Ms. Kaiser stressed the importance of gradual reduction to minimize disruption in delivery of services and suggested that reserve funds be used to offset losses during the adjustment/transition period. The committee also agreed with the superintendent’s suggestion that fees for afterschool sports be considered.
Committee Report – N.K. High School: Ms. Kaiser reported that the NK school committee has asked its administration to meet with Jamestown administration for an annual review of the tuition contract. The committee agreed that Ms. Kaiser and Mr. Brennan should serve as a contract sub-committee if needed.
The Jamestown School Committee will meet jointly with the Town Council on Monday, Feb. 2 at 5:30 at Town Hall to discuss the budget outlook. Budget workshops of the Jamestown School Committee will be on February 5 and 12. The next business meeting will be on February 26. All meetings are held at 7 p.m. in the Lawn library.