Taking Notes: Weston Public Schools Board of Education Meeting

Presentation on Weston's Curriculum Instructional Leaders. Weston is one of the few districts that have "CILs," who are currently implemented in pockets at and . These coaches work with teachers to review classroom teaching methods and make candid assessments. The CILs demonstrate a learning process to the classroom and then follow up with the teacher to address questions. The curriculum committee would like to see this program instituted across the board. Les Wolf loved the presentation and described it as a "home run."

Motion to allow the Booster Barn to have corporate sponsorship passes unanimously. Despite initial reservations from Board Vice Chair Ellen Uzenoff, the board felt that this "localized sponsorship" is similar to football game sponsors and is therefore allowable. Board member Richard Bochinski noted that "this is a menu board we're talking about here," as opposed to banners or permanent signage that would be visible at all times, is not obtrusive, and helps the Boosters achieve their goal. Uzenoff ultimately felt that this sponsorship has "community value," but is a "one-time thing." Board member Sonya Stack noted that the sponsorship will allow the Boosters to repay a "substantial" loan to the town of Weston.

Special Education. Weston would like to continue to "develop a district-wide model for remediation and intervention," and "blur the lines" between "special" and "regular" education. Lois Pernice, Director of Special Services, outlined several ways in which the school community can utilize resources to "support district goals," including examining the way in which paraprofessionals are used and reviewing the use of non-therapeutic contracted services. Pernice also noted the need to expand the high school and middle school programs to assist more students in the community. The creation of criteria and guidelines, a better allocation of resources (including staffing), and the alignment of parental and district efforts can be accomplished without any new budget dollars. Superintendent Jerry Belair identified the "Theory of Action" as a long-term plan and pointed out the need to evaluate current staffing to see if we can adequately replace contracted services.

Motion to restructure maintenance on public school fields passes unanimously. Director of Finance Joanne Keating recommended to the that Weston Public Schools restructure the maintenance arrangements on the public school fields due to quality concerns. Fields in Brookfield, Danbury, and Ridgefield schools were visited and reviewed; Keating partnered with Ridgefield to develop a scope of work to address field issues. Weston recently hired two high-quality staff members, experts in areas of horticulture, pesticide management and equipment maintenance. Additional seasonal staff may be required, as well. Keating recommended the "outright purchase" of equipment to prepare for bringing field maintenance services in-house as of July 1, and believes that the district will "save money and get better service." The district will search for used equipment first, and Keating believes that there is a high probability of a successful outcome.