Ware Public School District

The subcommittee focused their discussion on the Absentee policy, the Telephone calls and Cell phone policy, The Drug-Free Workplace Policy and the Grading Policy. The committee recommended changes to the Absences and Excuse Policy, including adding legal responsibilities as a valid reason for absence and requiring a physician's note for remittance in cases of chronic or irregular absences. They also discussed and proposed changes to the Use of Cellular Telephones and other Electronics Devices policy, emphasizing that cell phones and electronic devices are to be off and away unless specifically approved by a classroom teacher for a class assignment. Additionally, the Drug Free Workplace Policy was amended to include alcohol. The subcommittee agreed that the grading policy would remain as is with a grade of 65 as passing and would like to see a 97 considered the standard of an A plus in all schools.

The meeting included discussions and actions on various topics, including the approval of warrants and payroll, acceptance of regular business meeting minutes, and approval of the District Improvement Plan. The committee identified elements for the Superintendent Evaluation and discussed a running agenda, including a review of the meal charge policy. Updates were provided, including the Superintendent's report and discussions on the Guidance Action Plan, STUCO meeting dates, and the MASC proposal. The committee also addressed a request from the Quaboag School District regarding temporary classroom space for their students and outlined action items for the next subcommittee meeting.

The meeting included the approval of warrants and payroll. The committee approved most policies provided by MASC, excluding EGAFE, GBEC, and JH, which were discussed further. Proposed changes to these policies will be scanned and sent to MASC for revision, with the committee voting on the final versions at the next meeting. Administration will update the student manual accordingly. The next Employee Competitive/Retention subcommittee meeting is scheduled for mid-July. Dr. DiLeo was asked to follow up with MASC to proceed with transitioning all policies.

The meeting included a presentation on Project 351 by a Grade 8 student. The subcommittee discussed policy work for a possible intern over the summer. Updates were provided, including student and superintendent reports. The committee discussed the policy regarding substitute personnel, specifically addressing pay rates for retired and non-retired substitute teachers, and when the pay should begin. The school calendar of events was reviewed.

The subcommittee reviewed elements for the superintendent's evaluation, selecting fourteen elements across various standards and indicators. Policy File EGAFA Use of Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices was reviewed, with a decision to add a phrase regarding exceptions at teacher or administrative discretion. Additionally, Policy File EFD Cafeteria Policies and Procedures was reviewed, and a sentence was added to clarify that any fees from Non-Sufficient Fund checks would be deducted from the student's account balance.