2/3/1997 SCHOOL COMMITTEE Minutes

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Page lashpee School Committee Minutes-Regular Meeting February 3, 1997 ' l , 7.16 _, r -first Program: Chris Robello was present to discuss procedures f relative to the philosophy and related placement of the Pre--first Program. he S A student/parent handbook for the spring of 1997 was presented to intendam the School Committee for review. (condmued) Ms. Robello indicated that children to be considered for the Pre-fwst Program are referred to the Teacher Assistant Team by the child's kindergarten teacher. In addition to teacher observations and evaluations, the Pre-first teacher observes candidates in their kindergarten classroom. Class size is a key to success explained Ms. Robello. ]Many of the students who participate in the program are "at risk" for failure. The program as outlined allows children additional time to develop is a small classroom setting, leis. Robello suggested that fifteen students be the maximum size classroom for this program. At the end of the fiscal year,parents are surveyed with regards to the level of satisfaction towards the program informed lis. Robello. 'Overall, parents and teachers are very supportive of the program. It was noted that these students are reviewed each year until grade four. Parents are then requested to complete an additional survey relative to the program benefit and value. Discussion followed with respect to the most opt:*=*urn school site for the Pre-first Program. ]Vis. Robello stated that she has preference to continue to use the Coombs School which is the smaller of the two elementary buildings. Where are no designated openings per school noted Ills. Robello. 7.17 Fifth's Disease; we have been notified that an adult working in the Coombs School has been diagnosed with Fifth's Disease informed Dr. DeMour . For informational purposes, the Committee received an informational fact sheet on Fifth's Disease. At this time, the employee is working in an isolated room in the building stated Dr. Del Moura. A pregnant mothe working at the school has been tested, and cleared by her doctor reported Dr. DeMoura who stated that the disease may be ha.nful to an unborn child. Students with Fifth's Disease may have a rash similar to the measles. It is caused by a virus that lives in the nose and throat,and can be spread from person to person. Members of the.School Committee relater]concerns with respect to the pregnant mother, and related use of sick time. The employee should not be penalized for use of sick time to respond and follow up on this matter responded seven concerned School Committee members.