The Committee met last Tuesday night and explored a wide variety of topics. Here are some highlights:
* SEEM Collaborative Executive Director Cathy Lawson and Business Manager Greg Zammuto presented a review of their programming and clarified how Melrose's membership allows many eligible students to receive outstanding special education programming (that would be difficult and expensive for us to provide) on a cost-effective basis.
* Student Reps Lilah Drafts-Johnson and Amanda Sampson shared MHS news: Mr. Melrose (a really fun event for the kids) will be on 5/7, AP exams begin today (5/5) and continue for the next two weeks, check out the National Honor Society flowers at the front of the school, the spring choral concert will be 5/15, and progress reports will be issued on 5/13.
* Asst. Supt. for Teaching and Learning Margaret Adams presented the 2015 Professional Development Plan. It ties learning experiences of Melrose teachers to district goals and objectives and also allows them to apply that learning in ways that directly support what students need to know and do.
* The handbook for MVMMS and MHS was presented by MHS Assistant Principals Steven Fogarty and Jason Merrill. There is now one secondary handbook, which allows parents to understand expectations for all as well as see the transitions we expect students to make as they mature in our schools.
* Policies were discussed that apply to the donation of gifts to our schools (for which we are very appreciative!) and negotiations with our collective bargaining units (unions). They help set expectations around the roles and responsibilities of participating parties.
* A new rolling agenda was released in order to plan for future meetings.
* Supt. Taymore reported that an 11-member team from Colorado Springs was visiting last week to explore some of the excellent work being done in the district, including successes, challenges, and department happenings.
So glad to see that spring is finally making an entrance! So many exciting happenings at our schools at this time of year. Thank you so much for all you do, and since it is Teacher Appreciation Week, please remember to thank your children's teachers who make such a difference in the lives of our children!
