PRESENT: Cara Beames, Deb Beck, Carol Heller, Dave Eagle, Linda Kissane, Sue Mellon, MaryAnn Gipson, Nick Round, Patricia Dow, Cathy Stanilka, Nicole Tearno

ABSENT: Peggy Jones, Tom Dittus

§ Our second quarter 5/10-week marking periods were questioned, as there was an extra week in the second five weeks of the quarter. It was explained that five-week periods are decided according to number of days in the period, not weeks. Although it seems the second five-week period is longer, there are four testing days included in the number.

§ The 8^th grade failing list is very large – is there something we should be doing for these students? It was explained that individual teachers are working with these students to help them succeed. In 7^th grade, students are encouraged to (and/or forced to) make up work and do whatever it takes to not take a "0" for missed work or failed tests. This is their philosophy – to learn what happens when you get zero credit averaged into your mark. At the 8^th grade level, students know their responsibility and must be responsible for their own action. Therefore, they are given zeros when they do not turn in work. This philosophy is in preparation of their high school years.

§ Effective School report – the word "caring" is posted throughout the building; Talent Show schedule is going along on time. It will be a larger more talented show again this year and will be televised on Channel 16 and Adelphia Channel 62.

§ More suggestions/discussion pertaining to a reading program:

o The elementary school includes extra time built into their schedule for reading, why don’t we include a program such as theirs.

o Student comment reading check is a great idea, which makes students read more.

o The library has many new books including best sellers. Students and staff are encouraged to stop by and check them out.

o Since students have very little "free time" and are in study rooms, perhaps study hall monitors could take their students to the library on a rotating basis to have more opportunity and access to reading literature.

o Post synopsis of new books on the bulletin daily, or include articles in the Principal’s newsletter.

o Have the Middle School Committee discuss ways to enhance our reading program.

o Have students keep reading logs

o Have teachers incorporate a particular book into their own subject area

o Have elementary students change class location (such as our student schedules), and also for them to use more textbooks. Students are not used to carrying the heavy textbooks, let alone reading and using them. (It was explained that many do change location and textbooks are being used more.)

o Perhaps use magazine articles, etc. in lieu of textbook reading. Articles are up to date and often more exciting, etc.

o Linda Kissane will talk with Bill Gordon and brainstorm ways to get more use of the library.

o Urge parents to take time to read together with their students as often as they can.

o Put a link on our Web Page to an up-to-date list of new books available in the library.

§ Student constituent wanted to know why sophomores who play on a varsity team should not be included in the PE class exemption policy. Cathy explained that the program was set as a junior/senior award that students need to wait for. The program could be re-visited later this year for next year.

The rest of the meeting was spent going over the Biennial Review. We discussed questions and answers for our building in preparation of the joint meeting with the Cabinet. The completed State form will be presented to the Board for their approval at the February meeting. Our next meeting is a special meeting on Thursday, January 29^th at the elementary school, at which time the Biennial Review of the District Plan for the Participation of Parent and Teachers School-Based Planning and Shared Decision Making will be finalized.