In April, Needham voters approved a $1.5 million property tax override to fund extended learning in the Needham schools. This override will fund new and expanded elementary programming (Spanish; Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics (STEAM); and physical education and wellness), extend the learning day for elementary and middle school students, and create dedicated teacher planning and collaboration time K-12.

 

Last month, Town Meeting approved the FY 2015 school operating budget at a level of $56.6 million, representing a $2.6 million or 4.9% increase over this year's budget (these amounts do not include the override). Detailed information about next year's school budget can be found on the NPS website.

In September, all incoming 6th grade students at the High Rock School will participate in a 1:1 iPad initiative, and use those iPads during their middle school years. The goals of this program are to provide more opportunities for differentiated instruction and personalized learning experiences, empower students to take ownership of their learning and provide students with more opportunities to create, communicate and collaborate. The 6th grade iPad initiative was recommended by the School Committee after two years of iPad pilot programs conducted at Pollard Middle School. More information about the program can be found on the NPS website.

In addition to approving the school operating budget for next year, Town Meeting also approved two other notable articles related to the Needham Public Schools. First, Town meeting approved $679,325 to fund school technology improvements, including the support of the 1:1 iPad initiative at High Rock. Second, changes to the Minuteman Regional Vocational School District Agreement were approved. These changes are intended to improve the relationship among the Minuteman's member communities and help the School move forward with plans to renovate or replace aging facilities. More information is available in the Town Meeting Warrant. 

CNS extends a heartfelt thank you to Anne Weinstein who will be finishing her term with CNS this year. Anne has been a valuable member of our board for many years; we thank her for her service and wish her well. We also thank Jenny Solomon for serving as CNS Co-Chair for the last four years. Jenny will be replaced by Liz Lee who will serve as Co-Chair with Andrea Carter next year. 

 

Joining CNS next year are Bridget Akinc and Sara Federow. We look forward to collaborating with them in the coming year!