A. UPDATE ON CAFETERIA ROOF REPAIR: Dr. DiBella reported that we have obtained 4 estimates on repairs to the cafeteria roof ranging from $17,500 to $25,000. Our custodian, Ted Cronin, has met with each bidder and feels that the bid received from Giardina & Sons Roofing of Everett for $20,870 is the most responsible bid and is offering the best job for the money. Dr. DiBella recommended that the Committee approve the bid submitted by Giardina & Sons which she noted includes a 30 year warranty. Motion to accept bid from Giardina & Sons Roofing for $20,870 by Mrs. Dunn, second by Mr. Wilson. Vote: All in favor
Dr. DiBella stated that we obviously did not budget for this item. She will alert the Finance Committee of this unanticipated expense and that we find it necessary to take immediate action and will possibly approach them for assistance with a request for funds should that become necessary later in the fiscal year.

B. REPORT OF VETERANS’ DAY PROGRAM AT THE JOHNSON SCHOOL: The superintendent reported that it was a wonderful afternoon for the veterans and students. Dr. DiBella thanked the veterans for sharing their experiences with us and Mrs. Silva, Mrs. Hennessey, and Ms. Petrov for preparing the students for this special day.
C. REVIEW OF FY ’04 GRANTS MATRIX: Dr. DiBella reviewed our Federal And State grants and noted the amount of monies available to Nahant through the Department of Education. She noted that our grants are non-competitive, or entitlement grants. In FY ’03 we received a total of $95,529 in Federal grant funds and in FY ’04 the total for Federal grants is $99,174. In addition, FY ’03 State grants received totaled $31,683 and FY ’04 $19,993. Other than our 94-142 SpEd Grant, our federal and state in particular are smaller than previous years. This is due to our enrollment, demographics, and reductions in available state grants.
D. REVIEW CORRESPONDENCE FROM CHRISTINE LYNCH: Dr. DiBella reviewed a letter dated 10/24/03 from Christine Lynch at the DOE reiterating Nahant’s approval for the major repair project and information regarding our estimated annual payment.
E. REVIEW SUPERINTENDENT’S DRAFT FY ’04 GOALS: Dr. DiBella reviewed her FY ’04 goals with the Committee. She will make the changes discussed by the Committee and present them for approval.
F. PRELIMINARY DISCUSSION OF FY ’05 BUDGET: The superintendent met with Dr. Littlefield and Dr. Testaverde recently to begin discussions regarding the FY ’05 budget. Dr. DiBella stated there are still a lot of unknowns at this point, however, the good news is that Dr. Testaverde anticipates that our special education costs will decrease. Dr. DiBella added that there is an increase of $215. per student in Swampscott tuition but hopefully the decrease in special education costs will cover the increase.
G. REVIEW CAPITAL OUTLAY NEEDS: Dr. DiBella reviewed the 3 year chronology of our efforts to renovate and repair the Johnson School. The Choo Report, Flansburgh Study, and the Mt. Vernon Group have all reiterated the same point; building systems are nearly 50 years old and are past their life cycle. She noted our request to the Capital Improvement Committee for the telephone system. Our phone system is obsolete with several areas of the building out of range. The superintendent believes this is a safety and security issue. She also noted the library project and suggested the Committee again approach the Capital Improvement Committee for support. Mr. Rauworth noted that an article for Town Meeting would request additional funds for a complete renovation of the School. Committee members agreed that it was prudent to tap whatever avenues are necessary to fund all portions of the renovation. They endorsed the Superintendent’s plan to discuss the phone system and library with the Capital Improvement Committee.

A. REPORT OF RENOVATION/BUILDING COMMITTEE: Mr. Rauworth reported the second of two public forums was held recently. There were about 50 people in attendance for this informational meeting. Mr.. Rauworth stated it was a very orderly and constructive meeting.
B. REPORT OF POLICY SUB-COMMITTEE: Mrs. Dunn reported that the sub-committee met with Mike Gilbert to review some minor changes to the manual. The completed document will be presented to the Committee at the next meeting for approval.
C. REPORT OF ANNUAL MASS/MASC JOINT CONFERENCE: This annual conference was attended by Dr. DiBella and Mrs. Reeh. It was a very interesting and informative. The most significant message from the conference was that it will be a very tough budget year for all districts once again.

A. BUS POLICY MAILING: The superintendent informed the Committee that all middle and high school parents received a copy of the bus policy by mail recently with instructions to sign and return it. The letter reminded parents that riding the school bus is a privilege and not a right. Students who engage in inappropriate behavior will face consequences in accordance with the policy.