5 Things You Missed at School Committee

The met last night and here's what you missed:

1. The School Committee approved the superintendent's "excellent" evaluation. Committee members gave individual evaluations, which were included in one group evaluation. Superintendent Dr. Joseph Sawyer received high ratings in all categories. "I am flattered and humbled by the evaluation, but I have a team approach and I work with tremendous professionals," he said.

School Committee Chair Sandra Fryc commended the superintendent. "It is easy to be a good leader during good times," she said. "But he has shown exceptional leadership during difficult times."

2. The board heard a technology report, though all of the technology improvements are on hold due to the lack of funding in the budget.

3. The board approved the level funded school budget of $47,139,676, which reflects a $1.4 million increase from the originally proposed 2.98 percent decrease from earlier in the budget season. The selectmen approved adding free cash to the budget to restore $700,000 into the school department's budget.

4. Assistant Superintendent Jay Cummings discussed the district goals that shows numerous new programs and initiatives designed to promote the continuous improvement of student learning.

5. The board also voted to approve the animals in schools policy, which makes them comply with the federal law requiring this policy. There was no public support or concern for this policy. It was unanimously approved.

The next School Committee meeting is scheduled for May 11.