new britain board of education regular meeting · submitted by mr. jeff prokop | no subcommittee...

New Britain Board of Education Nicole Rodriguez - President | Nicholas Mercier – Vice President | Gayle Sanders-Connolly - Secretary

Catherine Cheney | Merrill Gay | Yvonne Muniz | Annie S. Parker | Nancy Rodriguez | James Sanders Jr. | Violet Jiménez Sims

New Britain Board of Education Regular Meeting February 4, 2019 - 6:00 PM | Slade Middle School

Call to Order and Roll Call

Call to Order Ms. Nicole Rodriguez, President of the New Britain Board Education, called the meeting to order at 6:08 PM.

Board Members Present Ms. Catherine Cheney, Mr. Merrill Gay, Mr. Nicholas Mercier, Ms. Yvonne Muniz, Ms. Annie Parker, Ms. Nancy Rodriguez, Ms. Nicole Rodriguez, Ms. Gayle Sanders-Connolly, Dr. Violet Jiménez Sims

Board Members Absent None

Reports

Janet Piechert Ms. Janet Piechert is the co-chair of the Arch Street NRZ. She is here in support of the playground for Northend Elementary School. She says while what they have designed is small (due to limited space), it will be a positive experience for children. She also noted that it will be handicap accessible and hopes the Board will approve the funding request.

Reports

The Superintendent’s Report is attached.

Presentations

The presentations regarding preschool consolidation and the NBHS Academy of Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology (MET) are attached.

Consent Agenda

Operations: Approve minutes from the Regular Board of Education Meeting on January 7, 2018 Submitted by Mr. Matthew Cannata | No subcommittee review

Operations: Accept Enrollment Report Submitted by Mr. Jeff Prokop | No subcommittee review



Operations: Approve purchase order for VMware Licenses Submitted by Mr. Jeff Prokop | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: Local

This purchase order covers the yearly renewal for VMWare which is used to deploy virtual desktops to our computer labs. The total is $53,196.65 and the funding source is Local Budget MIS Software Budget 101092110000-53510

Operations: Approve purchase order for renewal for hardware support to CSDNB virtual server environment Submitted by Mr. Jeff Prokop | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: Local

This quote is for the renewal for hardware support to our virtual server environment. Specifically it is for the hard drive cluster to that system. The total is $25,184.68 and the funding source is Local Budget MIS Software Budget 101092110000-53510

Operations: Approve purchase order for Microsoft Licensing Renewal Submitted by Mr. Jeff Prokop | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: Local

This is the renewal for Microsoft products (Server, Windows OS, and Microsoft Office. The total is $64,476.34 and the funding source is Local MIS Budget Software and Coding 101092110000-53510.

Academics: Approve bid waiver for Career Tech Ed Construction Pathway Submitted by Ms. Ryan Langer | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: Perkins Grant

These materials to be purchased from Rockler will provide an opportunity for students to update and share their work through the Career Tech Ed Construction Pathway, specifically in the Construction and Explorations of Computer Science Courses. These materials were approved for purchase through the state Perkins grant. The total is $7,687.96 and the funding source is Perkins.

Academics: Approve purchase order for two Chromebook Carts at Smalley Elementary School Submitted by Mr. Jeff Prokop | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: 1003 Grant

Smalley has the funds to purchase two additional chromebook carts for their school, which comes from grant funding. The total is $19,102.00 and the funding source is Grant Funding (1003 Grant) 2046-012-10001-57346

Partnerships: Approve grant in the amount of $540 from the University of Connecticut for Physics classes at NBHS Submitted by Mr. Keith Ontko | No subcommittee review

This is a grant awarded by the University of Connecticut Early College Experience Department for my Physics classes. To enhance the learning opportunities for my students, I have created a special website which I have begun to populate with tutorials/online lessons using different types of media. Some students react well to written texts with examples, and so I have created a number of tutorials in text (pdf) format. These tutorials include guided instruction on problem solving in each of the physics sub-disciplines. There are also a large set of examples (also in pdf format) for students to look at to enhance their understanding. Knowing that not all students respond well to textual media, I have begun to create complimentary set videos that match the textual tutorials, but in the format of a video of me teaching. The video creation option I would like to use is the type of format that is used in Khan Academy videos. In the Khan Academy videos, they use a tablet to record video of problem solving/instruction while recording voice as well. This would require a “drawing monitor” or “screen drawing tablet”. The price of the tablet ranges anywhere from $360 - $800. The model I am looking at which meets all of my requirements is the “Huion KAMVAS GT-191 Drawing Tablet." The cost of the device with tax is approximately $540.00. The total is $540.00 and the funding source is University of Connecticut



Partnerships: Accept donation in the amount of $700 from Community Foundation of Greater NB for art enrichment Submitted by Ms. Leona Clerkin | No subcommittee review

The Community Foundation has created an art enrichment fund to support art enrichment for New Britain School students. A performance of Dance History Live: From Classical to Contemporary was performed by Dimensional Dance Company on November 15, 2018. This performance included a pre-performance study guide and after performance reflection. Students prepared for their performance in their gifted class. The total is $700.00 and the funding source is The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain.

Partnerships: Accept donation in the amount of $1,500 from Travelers for New Britain High School Submitted by Dr. Vincent Walsh | No subcommittee review

Strengthens NBHS students' interest and skill in reading by introducing students to high interest reading materials that promote fluency, comprehension, and critical thinking skills. The total is $1,500.00 and the funding source is Travelers Insurance Company

Partnerships: Approve grant in the amount of $2,000 from the Liberty Bank Foundation for Adult Education Submitted by Mr. Kevin Andersen | No subcommittee review

Accept a $2,000 Grant from Liberty Bank Foundation for New Britain Adult Education, "...for the purpose of providing scholarships to 2019 graduate of New Britain Adult Education who plan to continue their education at and institution of higher education." The total is $2,000 and the funding source is Liberty Bank Foundation

Partnerships: Accept donation in amount of $2,100 from Community Foundation of Greater NB for art enrichment Submitted by Ms. Leona Clerkin | No subcommittee review

The Community Foundation has created an Art enrichment fund to support art enrichment for New Britain School students. The Mariachi Mexico Antiguo LLC performed at seven New Britain schools last spring at a discounted rate to provide access to the traditional Mariachi music of Mexico. The total is $2,100.00 and the funding source is Community Foundation of Greater New Britain.

Partnerships: Accept donation in the amount of $2,500 from Donors Choose for the New Britain Transitional Center Submitted by Ms. Susan Girolomoni | No subcommittee review

This is a Donors Choose donation from the Dalio Foundation for a primary, high school, and art teacher. The total is $2,500 and the funding source is Donors Choose.

Partnerships: Accept donation in the amount of $2,564 from Donors Choose for IT class at Pulaski Middle School Submitted by Ms. Amanda Vibert | No subcommittee review

My partner, Chris Laudano, and I created a DonorsChoose project to obtain materials that we could incorporate into our middle school Information Technology class during our unit on coding. Materials include 2 classroom sets of Microbits (tiny programmable computers), headphones for coding activities requiring sound, and books with coding projects/activities. The total is $2564 (total cost of requested items) and the funding source is Donors Choose.

Partnerships: Accept donation in amount of $3,448 from Community Foundation of Greater NB for cultural books Submitted by Ms. Leona Clerkin | No subcommittee review

This donation is made by Lisa Amodio in memory of her father John Pescosolido. This grant is earmarked to purchase cultural arts books for 3rd grade classrooms at Gaffney and 7th grade classrooms at Pulaski Middle School. The total is $3,448.00 and the funding source is The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain



Partnerships: Approve grant in the amount of $190,000 from Low Performing Schools Grant for Smith Elementary Submitted by Mr. Ray Moore | No subcommittee review

Smith Elementary School was recently awarded funds through the 2017-2019 Low Performing Schools grant program. The funds will be used to replace all classroom furniture from Kindergarten thru Grade 5 including teacher set-ups, student desks, tables and chairs including kidney tables, bookcases and file cabinets. The Connecticut State Turnaround Office strongly encourages school districts to use state contracts when available. This furniture will be purchased through Insalco Corporation using State Contracts 15PSX0041 and 16PSX0190. The total is $190,000.00 and the funding source is 2017-2019 Low Performing Schools Grant.

New Business

Personnel: Approve personnel transactions and extracurricular appointments Submitted by Dr. Shuana Tucker | No subcommittee review

Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the personnel transactions and extracurricular appointments, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. Mr. Mercier motioned to table the discussion and approval to later in the meeting, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. Motion carried unanimously.

Operations: Approve Phase 5 of 5 - Plans, Specifications and Professional Cost Estimates for Smalley Elementary Submitted by Mr. Ray Moore | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: School Building Projects Grant

The State of Connecticut, Office of School Construction Grants & Review, requires Board of Education and School Building Committee approval of Phase 5 of 5 - Plans, Specifications and Professional Cost Estimates for Playgrounds dated January 16, 2019. Approval is required for the Addition/Renovate-As-New and Site Improvements Project at Smalley Elementary School prior to the Plan Completion Test (PCT) Review Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, February 5, 2019. The Plans and Specifications are ready for approval and bidding. The School Building Committee approved the Smalley Elementary School Plans, Specifications and Professional Cost Estimates dated January 16, 2019 at its monthly meeting on Wednesday, January 16, 2019. The total is $181,657.00 and the funding source is School Building Projects Grant.

Ms. Sanders-Connolly motioned to approve Phase 5 of 5 - Plans, Specifications and Professional Cost Estimates for Smalley Elementary, seconded by Mr. Mercier. Motion carried unanimously.

Operations: Approve bid waiver/purchase order for cleaning/prepping floors, walls and ceilings for MET Academy Submitted by Ms. Sondra Sanford | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: Local

The Academy of Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology (MET) at NBHS purpose is to create a best-in-class manufacturing academy program at NBHS that develops a skilled talent pipeline to support the current and future workforce needs in New Britain and the surrounding area through pre-apprentice and apprenticeship programs. Many partners have been meeting and strategizing to raise funds to redesign and purchase new equipment for the manufacturing lab at NBHS. This quote is to clean and prepare the room. This quote includes cleaning and prepping the floors, walls and ceiling in room 536. The vendor is an alumni of NBHS and has completed similar work at nearby facilities. The total is $20,500 and the funding source is Local. Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the bid waiver/purchase order for cleaning/prepping floors, walls and ceilings for MET Academy, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. Mr. Mercier stated that for all bid waivers, he would like to see the number of quotes obtained in the background information. Motion carried unanimously.



Academics: Approve bid waiver for five (5) Adams Pro Gen II Hammered Copper Timpani for NBHS Music Submitted by Ms. Leona Clerkin | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: Local

In order to provide the best personalized and comprehensive "whole-child education," it becomes necessary to replace worn out and damaged musical equipment. As part of the New Britain High School Music Department, the purchase of a set of five, Adams Pro Gen II Hammered Copper Timpani, will provide a much needed replacement for old equipment. This new timpani will be used during concerts, the spring Broadway-style musicals, and during CMEA competitions which currently have to be brought in by surrounding towns to meet the standard of excellence for such musical performances.

The total is $14,599.00 and the funding source is Local and Instrument -Repair account Fine Arts Instrument Equipment 101096322074 57345 and Instrument Repairs 260196360021 58999 - $7,299.50 each account.

Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the bid waiver for five (5) Adams Pro Gen II Hammered Copper Timpani for NBHS Music, seconded by Ms. Cheney. Motion carried unanimously.

Academics: Approve bid waiver and purchase order for NBHS video production courses Submitted by Ms. Ryan Langer | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: Perkins Grant

These supplies from B & H Photo will improve experiences and increase level of background knowledge for students enrolled in Technology Education. These supplies will directly impact the Video Production course at NBHS. These supplies were approved for purchase out of the state Perkins career tech ed. grant. The total is $16,224.31 and the funding source is Perkins Grant.

Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the bid waiver and purchase order for NBHS video production courses, seconded by Ms. Cheney. Motion carried unanimously.

Academics: Approve purchase order for math support at Pulaski Middle School Submitted by Mr. Mark Fernandes | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: SIG Grant

This is to continue the Math support by CREC that has occurred over the last three years. It is an expenditure of money remaining from last year. The total is $19,200.00 and the funding source is SIG Grant 2044-969-10001-53320.

Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the purchase order for math support at Pulaski Middle School, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. Motion carried unanimously.

Executive Session

Mr. Mercier motioned to go into executive session at 8:23 PM to discuss the following, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly.

4C. Approve personnel transactions and extracurricular appointments 5A. Approve administrative appointment 5H. Approve administrator contract(s) 5I. Update on pending legal matters

Superintendent Sarra, Dr. Tucker (Chief Talent Officer), and Mr. Kane (Chief Operations and Finance Officer) were invited into executive session. Motion carried unanimously.

Continuation of Meeting

The meeting resumed in open session at 9:00 PM.



Personnel: Approve administrative appointment Submitted by Ms. Nancy Sarra | No subcommittee review

Mr. Mercier motioned to approve Evelyn DeSimone as the District Coordinator of Special Education and Pupil Services, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. The position is effective on or about March 5, 2019. The salary is $140,827, Step 1, local funding. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Approve personnel transactions and extracurricular appointments Submitted by Dr. Shuana Tucker | No subcommittee review

Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the personnel transactions and extracurricular appointments, seconded by Dr. Sims. Motion carried unanimously.

Operations: Approve bid waiver and purchase order installation of a new playground at Northend Elementary Submitted by Mr. Ray Moore | No subcommittee review | Funding Source: Local

In the fall of 2018, a small group of concerned citizens from the Arch Street Area Neighborhood Revitalization Zone (NRZ) organization approached Northend Elementary School about building a playscape on the limited blacktop area at Northend. With the full support of Northend's principal, Talisha Foy, the NRZ committee and school personnel have agreed to a layout provided by O'Brien & Sons located in West Hartford, CT. The equipment and installation costs will be provided through Connecticut DAS State Contract Pricing - #17PSX0081. It is expected that the play equipment will be installed in late June 2019.

The total is $86,975.50 and the funding source is Local funds 101093126000 - 57969.

Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the bid waiver and purchase order installation of a new playground at Northend Elementary, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Approve new position request for (1) High School Welcome Facilitator Submitted by Dr. Shuana Tucker | No subcommittee review

On June 1, 2018, the Board of Education approved this position to be filled by two part-time staff members. This position originated as part of the Commissioner’s Network and continues via the Commissioners and Alliance Grants. As of yet, we have not hired two staff members for this position. The original proposal at 20 hours per week @ $16.00 was not competitive for this important position. We ask that we combine the two part-time positions into 1 FTE position. Salary and benefits to align with site coordinators working with family engagement. The salary for the 10-month position is $50,000 and is funded by a grant. Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the new position request for (1) High School Welcome Facilitator, seconded by Ms. Cheney. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Approve new position request for (1) Social Worker at New Britain High School Submitted by Dr. Shuana Tucker | No subcommittee review

One of the requirements of the SPPT grant is to hire a 0.5 social worker dedicated to providing support and resources for our Parent and Pregnant Teens. The request is for a 12-month, full-time position at salary of $100,000. This would be funded by the SPPT Grant. Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the new position request for (1) Social Worker at New Britain High School, seconded by Ms. Cheney. Motion carried unanimously.



Personnel: Approve new position request for (1) Paraeducator at Holmes Elementary School Submitted by Dr. Shuana Tucker | No subcommittee review

Per PPT decision, a Kindergarten student at Holmes Elementary School requires full time paraeducator support over the course of his day. Adult support was substantiated through evaluation results that included a School Function Assessment. The position is a full time, 10-month position. The salary is $46,000 and the funding is through the local budget. Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the new position request for (1) Paraeducator at Holmes Elementary School, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Approve revised job description for High School Welcome Facilitator Submitted by Dr. Shuana Tucker | No subcommittee review

The primary functions for the High School Welcome Facilitator are as follows:

Under supervision of the High School Principal, facilitates day-to-day operations of the High School Welcome Center.

Serves as liaison to families in navigating the resources available to them within the High School, district, & community.

Develops and implements systematic community engagement strategies, events and programming that are responsible to the needs of students and families in order to improve learning experiences and educational outcomes for all high school students.

The pay rate is $24.04 per hour and benefits are aligned with Local 818. It is a 10-month position and is generally 37.5 hours per week. The work year includes the week after students leave school and one week prior to the beginning of the school year. The work schedule is flexible to meet the needs of the program and the families served. Some evenings and Saturdays will be required.

Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the revised job description for High School Welcome Facilitator, seconded by Mr. Sanders. Motion carried unanimously.

Policy: Approve new policy - 5144.1 - Use of Physical Force | Physical Restraint/Seclusion/Exclusionary Time Out Submitted by the Policy Subcommittee | Reviewed by the Policy Subcommittee on January 22, 2019

The Board of Education (Board) believes that maintaining an orderly, safe environment is conducive to learning and is an appropriate expectation of all staff members within the district. To the extent that staff actions comply with all applicable statutes and Board policy governing the use of physical force, including physical restraint of students and seclusion of students, staff members will have the full support of the Board of Education in their efforts to maintain a safe environment. The Board recognizes that there are times when it becomes necessary for staff to use reasonable restraint or place a student in seclusion as an emergency intervention to protect a student from harming himself/herself or to protect others from harm. The full policy can be found online at www.csdnb.org. Mr. Mercier motioned to postpone Policy - 5144.1 - Use of Physical Force | Physical Restraint/Seclusion/Exclusionary Time Out for a second reading at the next regular meeting, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. Motion carried unanimously.



Personnel: Approve administrator contract(s) Submitted by Ms. Nancy Sarra | No documents available in packet

Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the contract between the Board of Education and Mr. Kevin Kane, Chief Financial Officer, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. The term of employment is from July 1, 2019 – June 30, 2022. The annual base salary for 2019-2020 is $159,120; $162,302 for 2020-2021, and $165,548 for 2021-2022. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Mercier motioned to approve the contract between the Board of Education and Mr. Jeff Prokop, Chief Information Officer, seconded by Ms. Sanders-Connolly. The term of employment is from July 1, 2019 – June 30, 2022. The annual base salary for 2019-2020 is $124,653, $127,146 for 2020-2021, and $129,689 for 2021-2022. Motion carried unanimously.

Addition to Agenda

Ms. Sanders-Connolly motioned to add the discussion of moving Finance and Personnel subcommittee dates, seconded by Ms. Cheney. Motion carried unanimously. Ms. Nicole Rodriguez said the information needed to review during the Finance and Personnel Subcommittee comes in late and items added to the board agenda aren’t being discussed in subcommittee due to the meeting dates. A new schedule will be brought to the next regular meeting moving Finance and Personnel Subcommittee meetings to the fourth week of every month.

Closing and Adjournment

Ms. Sanders-Connolly motioned to adjourn at 9:42 PM, seconded by Mr. Sanders. Motion carried unanimously.

Superintendent’s Report | February 4, 2019

Latest news throughout CSDNB

NBHS JROTC makes history New Britain High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) had one it’s most successful days ever on Saturday, January 19th at Cranston East High School in Cranston, Rhode Island. The teams competed with amazing results in the final drill meet of four in the 2018-19 Southern New England Drill season. New Britain cadets competed in six team events, placing 1st in five overall for the season! Also, NBHS cadets remarkably earned 28 out of 40 individual medals. These were the best results in the history of NBHS JROTC. The New Britain High School JROTC Drill Team & Color Guard are teams of Cadets who exemplify the traits of discipline, teamwork and leadership skills learned in the JROTC program. The Drill season starts in September and cadets must earn a spot on the team and participate in all practices after school. Cadets must maintain their grades and cadet status in order to remain on the team. Drill team is one of the many ways JROTC program accomplishes its mission: To Motivate Young People to Become Better Citizens.

Side by Side with NBHS and Middle School Students The NBHS Tri-M Music Honor Society recently hosted their annual “Side by Side Project” with 8th grade music students. Our 8th graders had the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the Choral, Band and Orchestral students, culminating in a full group performance of our New Britain High School “Alma Mater.” Following the performance, the 8th grade students were able to ask questions and discuss the different course offerings and opportunities with our current NBHS Music students.

Internet Safety Concepts On January 29, 7th and 8th graders came to New Britain High School to learn from Scott Driscoll of Internet Safety Concepts. Driscoll gave an eye-opening presentation and speech about the very real dangers of the internet today. Talking about cyberbullying, sexting, the danger of today's apps, and more, he noted that many of them, if not all, had settings in them to track students' every move. He also talked about their digital footprint, noting that it never goes away. On January 15, all fifth and sixth grade students in the district were bused to New Britain High School for a tech talk. The idea for the forum sparked after concerned parents and teachers noticed online conversations and actions making an impact on the classroom.

Downes Construction We're thrilled to partner with Downes Construction and The Ana Grace Project as we honor our unsung heroes throughout 2019. During the week of January 21, we surprised three teachers - Butch Malinowski, Cathy Scanlon, and Tamika Anderson, with $1,000 for their classroom and their school. Downes will be surprising other teachers throughout the remainder of 2019. More details will be available on February 14, which is when Downes Construction will officially kick off their campaign.

NBHS students participate in CMEA Northern Regional Festival During the weekend of January 18, New Britain High School will once again be hosting the CMEA Northern Regional Festival. With NBHS as its host for over 20 years, the festival brings together the best high school musicians from across the Northern

part of Connecticut to participate in the Regional Chorus, Band, Orchestra and Jazz Band. Students audition in November each year and the top scoring students in each category are selected to take part in the festival ensembles. This year, NBHS is proud to have four students participating in the festival. Leah Gaffney (soprano, 12) and Manuel Benitez (tenor, 12) will be singing in the 200 voice chorus and Dylan Washington (trumpet, 12) and Mathu Fearon (tuba, 12) will be playing in the concert band. These students, along with several hundred others from across Northern Connecticut, will be participating in rehearsals Friday evening and Saturday morning in preparation for a culminating concert at 3:00 PM on Saturday at NBHS. Following this, on February 2nd, all participating students will be able to audition again, along with the students selected from the other regions across the state, for the All-State Festival, which takes place in Hartford during the CMEA Teachers Convention in April.

NBHS Academies taking part in various workshops The New Britain High School Academies have been busy over the past several weeks, taking part in various workshops and presentations that will help them prepare for life beyond high school. On January 7, all sophomores of the NBHS Academies (Academy of Finance, Academy of Health Sciences, Academy of Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology) participated in a career readiness workshop on interviewing skills with the NBHS work based learning team and Junior Achievement. Over 60 students engaged in the workshop discussing the do’s and don’ts for interviewing, how important a first impression is, and completed a self-assessment on soft skills. Students left with core knowledge of how to begin their interviewing practices where they will put them to application in the upcoming career fair being held in February. On January 14, juniors from the Academy of Finance collaborated with Travelers, CCSU, UCONN, and Capital Community College on what it takes to prepare for college and to be successful in your four years. They also learned about the value and benefit of the Travelers EDGE scholarship program. On this day, over 10 New Britain High School alumni, all current or former Travelers EDGE Scholars, spoke directly with students in three rotations about topics such as the first generation college experience, financial challenges balancing school and the need to work, using failure as a tool for success, and why seeking help is very important. This event is the first step for these students in creating a path toward possible employment in the financial/insurance services industry in majors ranging from business to information technology.

Care packages for Prudence Crandall Center Evelyn Lopez and Karla Sosa, administrative assistants at DiLoreto, recently coordinated efforts to put together care packages for the Prudence Crandall Center. Unfortunately, many of the women who seek services at the center come there without some of the daily necessities. Combining efforts with the staff and students at Brookside School, they were able to create over 50 care packages for those in need. Thank you to Evelyn and Karla, as well as the students and staff at Brookside, for giving back by creating these care packages for the women at the Prudence Crandall Center.

NBHS Baseball Head Coach Roberto Mercado participates in 2019 Mohegan Sun Baseball Coaches Convention The 2019 Mohegan Sun World Baseball Coaches' Convention took place last weekend and representing New Britain was New Britain High School Dean of Students and Baseball Head Coach Roberto Mercado. Mercado was selected to be one of the guest panelists during the high school coaches roundtable session Thursday evening and on Friday, he presented in a nearly hour-long session to high school coaches.

This world-class baseball coaches' convention attracts more than 1,000 coaches from all levels of play and features more than 90 exhibitors from leading-edge companies. “Being part of the roundtable and also presenting to coaches on ‘High School Coaches Checklist from Fall to Opening Day’ was a humbling honor. I was able to give the coaches in attendance a breakdown of what we do at NBHS and the expectations we have for our student-athletes,” said Mercado. “After the presentation, I received dozens of emails from coaches from Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Massachusetts asking for a copy of the presentation as well as questions about the culture we have at New Britain. It's great to hear from other coaches that they want to implement some ideas we use here at New Britain to enhance their program on and off the field. I'm blessed for the opportunity to represent NBHS Baseball in such a positive light. It is a privilege and honor working with these student athletes!"

NBHS STEM class among the nation’s 250 state finalists in Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Contest New Britain High School was among the nation’s 250 state finalists in the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Contest – a nationwide competition that challenges students in grades 6-12 to apply STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) skills to find creative solutions to real-world issues impacting their local communities. Out of thousands of schools that entered the contest, the 250 state finalist classrooms – five from each state – were chosen based on their creative and strategic proposals to solve complicated issues that affect their communities by using STEM learning. Eric Nelson and Chris Conant – ninth grade math and science teachers – submitted the project idea of addressing storm water runoff from the NBHS roof and parking lot flowing into the brook. Approximately 40 students worked together on the project, which was titled “Victory Gardens.” While the team did not advance as the state winner, Nelson and Conant said the lessons the students learned from this project will go a long way to furthering the students’ passion for the STEM process. “The end results had the students building a rain garden, but the STEM process is much more than that. The students learned about our green infrastructure, managing storm water, and then siting, designing and building a rain garden,” said Nelson and Conant. “The students voted on two CEO's and split the other 40 students into five subgroups based on their self-described strengths: Math, Science, English Government, and Team Identity. It was a full-scale effort that blended many disciplines together.”

Superintendent’s Report | February 4, 2019

Feedback from New Britain University

NBU at New Britain High School

The NBU structure at the high school allows an entire team of teachers to come together to support a student, meet with their family, etc. This is a valuable resource for us that the high school had not been able to previously enjoy in the part.

It has been great watching our teachers come together once a week to reflect on their instructional practice and then plan as a team. In the beginning of the year, I thought these days would be a struggle to get through but now they are one of the highlights of my week.

Teachers are already recognizing an increase in student engagement and discourse with the addition of Turn and Talk, one of our instructional strategies from NBU. There is still work to be done, but it is moving in the right direction!

One of the teachers in NBU was involuntarily transferred to middle school and then back to the high school this year. In NBU, he has the opportunity to share his unique perspective with his own content area which helps vertical alignment, and with all of the interdisciplinary teams who meet on that day. Coming in from a middle school gives him a different viewpoint which is valuable for our group learning in response to student behaviors and learning.

One of the best parts of NBU is that the teachers have professional learning built into the school day that is meaningful, because it provides learning, and the chance to put that learning into action in the next few days, and then a follow-up chance for teachers to discuss and assess their new learning. The structure of NBU falling during school hours increases the buy-in as the scheduling inherently shows the importance of the learning.

Many teachers have talked about the benefit of having time to discuss students with other teachers who share a common group of students. The structures and protocols built into NBU keep these discussions positive and goal-oriented

NBU day has afforded certain content areas (Health, PE, Business, Art, Culinary) that typically have not had relevant PD for their teaching practice a place to learn, discuss, implement and collaborate. In August the focus was on the 155 minute block and how to best serve our students during that block. As the year has unfolded the teachers have gained valuable insight into their practice by the structure that NBU has created for them. Margaret Coates wanted to try teaching yoga and because of the relationship I built with her during NBU I was able to offer suggestions and help plan and create a successful lesson.

In my regular Block NBU a teacher asked me to come observe a circle that she was putting into practice for the first time. This was based on a discussion during our NBU about implementation of new strategies to support student’s Social and Emotional growth. I observed and supported the teacher through the process which I know was a big deal for her.

Perhaps one of the most powerful parts of NBU is being able to pull students in via KIdTalk and recognize their strengths and challenges and to be able to discuss concerns with their parents. This email is a result of a conversation with a student after the student was brought in for a discussion because she was struggling with her AP class.

What you all did today shows how much you guys care about your students. This could not have come at a better time for her. She was beginning to show signs of giving up, this showed her that others, other than her parents care about her, and how bright she is. She was so happy and could not stop smiling as she read the notes each of you gave her. She is so grateful that she has you guys to get through the year and she couldn’t have asked for anything more. I sincerely thank you all for this and I appreciate you all. Keep up the AMAZING JOB!

Middle School

Collaboration time with team was great. Very helpful.

Time to plan and collaborate.

Sharing with my team our work.

Looking at student work from other subjects and seeing activators that worked.

Kid talk; team collab

Flexibility of flip-flopping kid-talk with student work discussion

Very productive day

Sharing student work went well

Loved the collaboration time

Student work - sharing how other teachers implement the activators with feedback

I absolutely loved seeing the work my students produce in other classes.

Loved the afternoon time for our student talk and collaboration

Going over plans and collaborating with content areas.

Turn and talk modeling

Turn and talk discussions

New protocols

Sharing out our new activators & what worked/didn't work

Positive intention

LLC connections

The sharing work helps us to see patterns with students

The kid talk protocol helps us focus.

Working with content partner

Sharing our student work and reflecting/getting feedback

Today was awesome. It was extremely helpful to review other teachers' work and learn strategies.

The examples of work was one of the most helpful things so far

Student work evaluation

Team time is great!

Elementary School

I appreciate the anticipation of coming to NBU where I feel like a professional and my opinion/input is valued.

The various ideas on how to tackle the challenging student

What the teacher does matters!

Presenters are teachers so they get it!

Engagement is similar for teaching across disciplines

Collaborating- I love getting ideas from other professionals

Having a voice regarding the strategies in the classroom

Thinking back at a learning experience helped me realize what I need to do as a teacher

Holding ourselves accountable for what we're doing in our classroom (greeting, 100% participation)

Modeling discussion with student and teacher and using the method of asking open ended questions

How to have meaningful/deep conversation with a student

Thinking about communication and conferencing skills with students

I appreciate getting ideas from my colleagues

Considering academic and social efficacy in tandem is foundational for creating student success

Collaborating with colleagues - getting new ideas

Great new strategies to try based on articles

Learned strategies I can use and WANT to use.

Thank you for your well-planned and organized session.

I really appreciated the activities to bond with my team

This was great! Organized, relaxed, productive

STEAM / PLUS

I enjoy these meetings, I learn a lot and get to bond with fellow teachers with whom I do not see on a regular basis.

I like the change in working with each other (working with other adults to plan and brainstorm).

It is good to see students who do not perform well in the regular class setting dive into STEAM with real gusto. Several teachers were surprised by the engagement they saw when I shared photos with them.

I am grateful for the support that is offered from the STEAM folks (Jen) and the Kindergarten facilitators

I am excited about all the hands on manipulative kits

You are doing an awesome job.

Thank you Jenn & Christie for all you are doing!

Although there are a lot of moving parts, I'm excited to share in the excitement of this new initiative with our kids.

Time to share out and plan with our school teams was invaluable!

Our meeting with Superintendent was highly beneficial.

I plan to make some adjustments about how I approach certain assignments with my students

Engaging students in meaningful hands on activities.

The process is just as important as the content.

Building relationships with my students

I appreciate today's PD. It was aligned to our teaching and can easily be implemented into STEAM instruction.

The activators PD was excellent and presented in a meaningful manner.

Thank you for all the hard work that you and your TEAM do to advocate for STEAM and it's teachers.

Pursuing Excellence for Every New Britain Student

In partnership with family and community, the Consolidated School

District of New Britain works to provide the best personalized and

comprehensive whole-child education so our students will be

prepared for, and positively contribute to, a profoundly different

future

Theory of Action

If we dedicate consistent resources (time, talent, dollars) to improve

adult practice aligned to the profile of the NBHS graduate AND provide

equity/access to hands & minds on learning for ALL students, student

engagement and outcomes will improve.

● NBU Professional Learning

● Enrichment Elective(s)

The Power of Feedback

Short-term adjustments in response to staff feedback

● Elementary Level NBU moved back to home school 2 times/month

● Middle School NBU flexible collaborative meeting time added to

bi-weekly agenda

● Middle & High NBU time for content area teachers to collaborate

during new learning

● Additional weekly planning/prep time given to all elementary

STEAM teachers

The Power of Feedback

Long-term (2019/20) Potential Adjustments

● Explore more efficient shceuduling options for NBHS while

maintaining team structure and NBU

● Explore and adjust elementary schedule to better meet staff and

student need

○ Maximize efficiencies of STEAM teachers (Gifted and Talented)

○ Elective Specials (Art, Music, P.E.) on weekly rotating basis

● Explore ways to adjust middle school schedule to provide teams

common planning during non-NBU weeks

Proposed Next Steps - 2019/2020

Continue

● NBU Professional Learning

● Enrichment Elective

Next Steps

● Consolidate Preschool Classrooms to RELC and Gaffney

● Create a more comprehensive continuum of services to better

meet the needs of all New Britain Students○ Establish Small Integrated Classrooms (K-8) and Small Integrated Team(s) (NBHS)

● Create Family School Liaison Positions for B-Grade 12

● NBHS Academy of Manufacturing, Engineering & Technology

Questions

What additional questions do you have?

Why Consolidate Preschool Programs?

DiLoreto, Lincoln, and RELC

Establishes a Preschool Center with a cohesive preschool approach to teaching and learning.

❏ Maximizes efficiency in staffing, time, and productivity

❏ Centralized staff with preschool expertise to support improved teacher practice for all

❏ Streamline processes and procedures

❏ Targeted professional development based on student needs

❏ Focus on creating a developmentally appropriate preschool space (building)

❏ Maximize resources for Executive Functioning Skills and Developmentally Appropriate Practice

❏ Equal access to the DiLoreto lottery for all Kindergarten students in the district

❏ Instructional Leader with extensive knowledge of preschool standards, assessments,

and NAEYC requirements

Benefits of a Districtwide Preschool

❏ DiLoreto lottery elimination for preschool, will provide equity and access to all Kindergarten slots

❏ An additional large integrated classroom will be added to the Gaffney site which will offer increased

integration opportunities for students in our PreK Autism Specific classrooms

❏ Streamline staff to one of two early childhood sites with a comprehensive continuum to provide access

to all children

❏ Creation of STEAM Room- PLAY LAB at RELC to provide enrichment opportunities

❏ CREATION OF Physical Literacy Hallways - Focus on Gross Motor & EXECUTIVE FUNCTION

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4q8dNwsR3E

Timeline for Preschool Consolidation

February

➢ Communicate proposal to the Board of Education➢ Share with Preschool Teaching Staff ➢ Message to parents

March

➢ Preschool Registration will open March 4, 2019➢ Preschool Parent Information Session-Open House/Curriculum Night in March

Proposal | 2019

MANUFACTURING • ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY TRAINING FOR THE FUTURE

NEW BRITAIN HIGH SCHOOL

MET ACADEMY

THE MISSION

To create a best-in-class manufacturing academy | program

at NBHS that develops a skilled talent pipeline to support

the current and future workforce needs in New Britain

and the surrounding area through

pre-apprentice and apprenticeship programs.

THE WHY

There are currently more than 13,000 open manufacturing jobs in CT, with average

compensation $95,000 (National Association of Manufacturers CT Data, April 2017

There are more than 4,000 manufacturers in CT employing 160,000

people.

Build a workforce to meet CT’s high demand of skilled jobs in

modern manufacturing

THE WHYNew Britain’s Manufacturing Legacy Continues to Flourish

• At the onset of the 20th century, New Britain was known as the "Hardware Capital of the

World", as well as "Hardware City". Major manufacturers, such as The Stanley Works, the

P&F Corbin Company (later Corbin Locks), and North & Judd, were headquartered in the

city. New Britain's motto, Industria implet alveare et melle fruitur – translated from Latin –

means "Industry fills the hive and enjoys the honey." New Britain clearly has manufacturing

in its blood.

• Today New Britain is home to more than two dozen major manufacturers and several

more in the surrounding town of Berlin, Newington, Plainville and Farmington.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanley_Works

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philip_Corbin_(manufacturer)

STUDENT BENEFITS

Unlimited opportunities for students with natural mechanical aptitudes and a passion

for modern manufacturing

A cost-effective alternative to a traditional, costly four-year college education ($1.3 trillion in student debt in US)

The opportunity to pursue high-demand, high-paying, satisfying careers• $67-123K earning potential for CT manufacturing maintenance technicians, toolmakers

and engineers (CT DOL)

• 18% Increase in the average annual pay of CT manufacturing workers since 2017(US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

• 12% of CT manufacturing workforce is expected to retire by 2020−Manufacturers are

hiring at an average rate of 22 people per year to fill the impending skills gap(2017 Survey of CT Manufacturing Workforce Needs)

STUDENT EDUCATION PATH

Pre-Apprenticeship Overview

https://www.advancingmanufacturingct.com/images/assets/Pre-Apprenticeship-Program.pdf

What is an Apprenticeship?A USDOL Registered Apprenticeship an “earn and learn” model that combines on-the-job learning with related classroom instruction that increases an apprentice’s skill level and wages. It is a proven solution for businesses to recruit, train, and retain highly skilled workers.

Industrial Apprenticeship Programs• The Industrial Apprenticeship degree program is designed to provide degree opportunities for individuals

in U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) approved programs.

• The degree program incorporates the related technical education and on-the-job-training (OJT)

necessary to earn a Journeyperson’s Card and the general education classes necessary to earn a

Technical Certificate or Associate degree.

https://www.advancingmanufacturingct.com/images/assets/Pre-Apprenticeship-Program.pdf

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS• Mfg Champion/Consultant + teachers

• Advisory Board and sub-committees including:

– Curriculum Committee

– Recruitment | Promotion Committee

– Fundraising Committee

• Leverage NIMS competency model

– Pathway curriculum should include credit towards associate degrees in manufacturing

(link with Tunxis CC, CCSU, others)

– Pre-apprenticeship and Apprenticeship programs

• Trips to best-in-class mfg programs in US (Wisconsin, Indiana, Pennsylvania) to identify best

program outline, including pre-apprenticeship program completed

• Screening process to identify students with best natural talents to succeed in manufacturing

• Marketing campaign – to students, parents, teachers, guidance counselors (sources/materials

already exist from PMA and other associations)

PROGRAM BUDGET• Mostly new state of the art manufacturing equipment

– Milling machines

– Lathes

– Grinders

– 3D printers

– Robotic platform

– Others TBD

• Space at NBHS (flooring, lighting, etc.)

• Salary/benefits for Program Chair/leader – Expected to be through Capitol Workforce Partners

• Promotion, including in the middle schools – Students, teachers, guide counselors, parents

• Curriculum development (but most is readily available through National Institute of Metalworking Skills –

NIMS, and ToolingU)

Estimated at $1 Million

FUNDING SOURCES

• Area Businesses

• CFGNB

• American Savings Foundation

• State / DECD / DOL

• Workforce Investment Boards

• PMA, NTMA Foundations

• Other Foundations

STRATEGIC PARTNERS• Area Businesses

• City of New Britain | Mayor’s office

• New Britain BOE | Superintendent

• Greater New Britain Chamber of Commerce

• Area Businesses

• CT DOL | US DOL Office of Apprenticeships

• Tunxis CC

• Capital Workforce Partners | Workforce Investment Board

• National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS)

• Manufacturing Associations (PMA, NTMA, others)

• CCSU College of Engineering | Manufacturing | ITBD

• United Way

CORPORATE PARTNER BENEFITS• Creates an accessible talent pipeline for robust manufacturing careers

• Tax incentives are available for employers who register as DOL

apprenticeship sponsors

• Companies who employ registered apprentices receive a tax credit up

to $7500 maximum per apprentice or 50% of actual wages

• DOL’s CT Manufacturing Innovation Fund supports training costs up

to $2500 year one and $1250 year two per apprentice

• Part-time commitment yields a critical business need

• Fills skills gap to ensure business sustainability and growth

• Creates brand alignment with community/social responsibility

POTENTIAL CORPORATE PARTNERS

A1 Machining Company

Acme Monaco

Addaero Manufacturing

Admill Machine

B&F Machine

Continental Machine Tool

Creed Monarch

Day Machine systems

Delcegno Threading

Force Automation

Integra-Cast

Integro

Marsam Metal Finishing

OKAY Industries

Orca

Parker Hannifin

Peter Paul Electronics

Polamer Precision

Stanley Black & Decker

Westbrook LLC

Winslow Automatics

New Britain

Alden Tool

Amco Precision

Assa Abloy

Budney

Cambridge Specialty

Edro

Meadow Manufacturing

Paradigm Precision

Plastic Molding Manufacturing

Precision Punch

PYC Manufacturing

Tri-Star Industries

Tomz

Berlin

Edmunds Gage

Richards CNC

Sirois Tool

USA Aerospace

Trumpf

Many others

Surrounding TownsNewington | Plainville | Farmington

Area Manufacturers

PROGRAM OUTCOMES• 25+ graduates per year

– Increasing the number of graduates per year

– Work based learning/apprenticeships

• Matriculation of college coursework

– Tunxis Community College

– CCSU

– Asnuntuck Community College

• Distinguished status in 4 years by NAF

P R O V E N T R A C K R E C O R DW E D E V E L O P S U C C E S S F U L B U S I N E S S

C O M M U N I T Y PA RT N E R S H I P S

EXAMPLE 1:

New Britain Academy for Healthcare Professionals

Mayor of New Britain

Superintendent of Schools

President & CEO Hospital of Central

Connecticut

President & CEO Hospital for Special Care,

Capital Workforce Partners

Greater New Britain Chamber of Commerce

Tunxis Community College

American Savings Foundation

Community Foundation of Greater New Britain

Comcast

New Britain Rotary Club

Community Chest of New Britain

Petit Family Foundation

SUPPORTED BY THE FOLLOWING PARTNERS:

• 10-course Curriculum

• 390+ students currently enrolled

• Mike Foran − 2012 National Principal of the Year

• Darlene Clark−2012 NBHS Teacher of the Year

• Michael Knight Zayas − 2013 District Teacher of the Year

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:

P R O V E N T R A C K R E C O R DEXAMPLE 2:

New Britain Academy of Finance

Mayor of New Britain

Superintendent of Schools

HRA of New Britain

President & CEO, Achieve Financial

Credit Union

Senior Vice President, Finance & CFO,

Hospital for Special Care

CT Department of Labor

Tunxis Community College

American Savings Foundation

Central Connecticut State University

Deloitte and Touche

Travelers

Town & City Clerk, City of New Britain

Sir Speedy

Central Connecticut Communications

SUPPORTED BY THE FOLLOWING PARTNERS:

• 200 students currently enrolled

• 17 students obtained NAFTrack Certification

• 67 students obtained internships (55 completed)

• 17 Travelers EDGE Scholars

• Sondra Sanford-Chosen to be part of NAF Leadership Fellows

• Program earned NAF Distinguished status within 3 years of inception (1 out of 40 in the US)

• One of 11 schools across the nation to participate in NAF Annual Benefit

• One of 50 schools chosen to be part of Lenovo Scholar Network

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:

GET INVOLVED

Contact

Sondra Sanford

Coordinator of Partnership & Engagement CSDNB NAF Site Director

860.827.2015 | [email protected]

new britain board of education regular meeting · submitted by mr. jeff prokop | no subcommittee...

Documents