September 4, 2024
Present members: Liz Barlow, Heather Lombardo, Monica Logan, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Karen Richmond-Godard, Ali Zafar, and Student Representative Katie O’Neill.
Chairperson’s Report
Logan shared that Governor Ned Lamont issued a statement promoting the elimination of cell phones in schools due to their high level of distraction. Cell phones are permitted at the middle school either in backpacks or in pockets to be used only before and after school hours. The high school has a bell-to-bell policy that cell phones cannot be used during class periods. Logan admitted that in the past, policies at both schools were not consistently enforced. Schools are working to be consistent in enforcement of the policies. The board, administration and staff will be working together to see what can be done long-term.
Public Comment
Nick Faraco, 10 Fawn Drive, stated he is a former teacher and guidance counselor and shared his concern about a survey that was distributed to students. Faraco the survey inappropriate for the educational setting and has nothing to do with education. It is his hope that Granby reconsiders this line of thinking and he asked the board to educate themselves about the gender transitioning of students.
Mike Kramarenko, 150 Notch Road, complained about the meeting which was scheduled for Wednesday, June 19 was instead moved to Tuesday, June 18 with no communication about the date being changed. He also shared that he called the Superintendent’s office regarding the survey given to students and was not able to speak to the Superintendent but only to the Assistant Superintendent. He also stated that he feels teachers should not ask students about their activities outside of school.
Susan Regan, Hungary Hill Road, shared the following concerns: 1) Test scores notably disappointing with minimal improvement; 2) Current direction is not beneficial to student welfare – DEI and BLM are taking time from education; 3) Cell phones 100 percent not in school or locked up in cell phone pockets; 4) Sexually oriented questions without authority to do so; and 5) Transgendering and how to address students—it is not helping students.
Superintendent’s Report
With regard to student surveys, Superintendent Cheri Burke said it is her wish for parents to have full transparency and understanding when dealing with surveys. The definition of survey is around official capacity, i.e., climate and culture surveys, mental health surveys or federally/state funded surveys. Parents can opt out of these types of surveys and the district supports that. Google forms or questions to students at the start of the year are commonplace and ways for teachers to get to know students. Last year, it was directed that questions must be optional and this did not happen. Two or three teachers sent out surveys and included a variety of questions. Burke emphasized that picking up the phone and directly speaking to the right staff member is essential.
Superintendent’s Annual Goals
Burke presented her goals for the 2024–25 school year to the board and stated there are two primary goals again this year: 1) To improve student achievement, academic performance and opportunity at all grade levels; and, 2) To enhance communication and build trusting relationships. Please see the full minutes in the town website.
Roof Replacement Project
The board approved the Granby Memorial High School roof replacement project as complete as recommended by the School Projects Building Committee.
Granby Education Foundation
Barlow stated grants were awarded as follows: $16,000 to the high school Drama Program to purchase new wireless mics and related equipment, $200 for a Wells Road graphic novel unit in 4th Grade and $400 to the middle school for baskets and discs to start up a new disc golf program.