3.14.2022 Fall River School Committee

Fall River Government TV Mar 14, 2022 YouTube Report Issue

The Fall River School Committee convened its regular meeting on March 14th, 2022. During citizens' input, Kyle Gregory, a Fall River filmmaker, requested support for a movie premiere and addiction awareness fundraiser, and was directed to the Superintendent's office. Colin Dyas raised concerns about Chapter 70 funds, the city's budget deficit, and proposed tax increases, while also praising student travel requests. Hal Levin, a Lakeville resident, sent a letter criticizing Fall River's handling of Chapter 70 funds and the Mayor's financial proposals. Superintendent Maria Ponce provided updates on the budget process, COVID-19 cases (which had significantly decreased), and ongoing capital projects at Durfee High School, Henry Lord, Talbot, and the Pace Center. The committee approved several sets of minutes, two travel requests for Durfee ROTC instructors, and various donations to Durfee High School athletics and the school itself. A contract with EMS Ling Inc. was tabled, while other contracts were approved. Grants for Social Emotional Learning and Mental Health were approved, with assurances that funds were already being utilized. Key decisions included the approval of the 2022-23 school committee meeting dates, with a proposed shift to the new Durfee High School auditorium starting in July. A new Technology Subcommittee was established, with Mr. Aguiar appointed as Chair and Mimi Laravey and Bobby Bailey as members. Sarah Rodricks was appointed as the School Committee representative to the Southeastern Mass Educational Collaborative. An Administrative Assistant position for the Special Education department was approved. The committee also voted to sunset Extended Learning Time grants at Letourneau Elementary and Morton Middle School, aiming for district-wide equity. The job description for a Plumber/Steamfitter was approved, but the Laborer job description was referred to the Facilities Subcommittee for further review. The end-of-year report, showing a net school spending shortfall of $2,298,381 for FY22, and a budget transfer were approved. The year-to-date budget report was also approved, despite Mr. Aguiar's concerns about budget transparency and line-item authority. The meeting concluded with the acceptance of retirements, resignations, and appointments, and a move into executive session to discuss litigation, collective bargaining, and non-union personnel contracts, including those for Derrick Randall, William Squires, Emanuel Monas, and Superintendent Maria Ponce, all of which were subsequently accepted upon reconvening.

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