School Board Update June 28, 2005:

 The Curriculum Committee tonight continued its discussions about corporate branding, policies for the acceptance of unsolicited gifts, and contracts with non-profits more generally (Domino’s pizza, vending machines, etc.).  The Committee directed our Acting Superintendent, Jeannie Collins, to research policies adopted by other school boards and also to consider potential language changes to existing district policies along with the city attorney.

 We have collected a thick binder of public input on this issue from parents, principals, and librarians, most of it focused on the General Dynamics contribution to the Reading is Fundamental program, and right now we are pulling up our shirtsleeves to figure out what our options are.  To put this discussion in perspective, the value of General Dynamics’ donation of books and visiting authors to the district is upwards of $18,000. per year.  I certainly think the process thus far has been productive and thoughtful, and I look forward to seeing how the interests of various constituencies in our community can be balanced.  If you have specific ideas for policy language, please send them along to: jcollins@bsdvt.org .  I think this is also a good time to remind those of you who may be able to make contributions to the schools that they are needy!  Principals of the various schools, parent-teacher organizers and Jeannie Collins are good people to ask about how best to donate money, goods and services to the school district.

 Amy Werbel
12 Catherine Street
awerbel@bsdvt.org