Board present: Michelle Dudek, Anne Swayze, Mark Heller, and Misty Sava

Administration present: Mark MacLean, Christine Barry, Robin Heins, Jane Slayton, Kathleen Boucher, and Judith Turk

Public present: Tina Cotton, Ed Becker, Don Gross, and Nancy Teach

Public comment: Ed Becker gave a statement regarding his position as a bus driver with First Student and his support of having transportation services for Andover students remain with the current bus company. He provided the Andover School Board members with a Wage/Benefit Comparison sheet.

Don Gross addressed the Board from the viewpoint of a taxpayer, advocating for local business activity which is a result of the bus fleet’s current location.

Nancy Teach, another current bus driver for First Student, described her love of her job and spoke of safety, sustainability, and sensibility. She is in support of a contract renewal with First Student.

Board Chairperson’s Report: Michelle stated that things are going well, and she thanked everyone for participating in the work session previous to the general meeting.

Old Business

Policies second reading:

• EFA – Availability and Distribution of Healthy Foods: Mark H. moved to accept, Anne made the second. All were in favor and the policy was approved.
• GBEF – School District Internet Access for Staff: Mark H. moved to accept, Anne made the second. All were in favor and the policy was approved.
• IMBA – Distance Education: Mark H. moved to accept, Anne made the second. All were in favor and the policy was approved.
• IMGA – Service Animals: Mark H. moved to accept, Anne made the second. All were in favor and the policy was approved.
• JLCK – Special Physical Health Needs of Students: Mark H. moved to accept, Anne made the second. All were in favor and the policy was approved.

Transportation: In light of the new information that was provided to the Board this evening, a decision regarding the response to the current transportation bids will not be made until further discussion and deliberation has taken place. A work session will be held on December 17.

New Business

Policies:

• IGE – Parental Objections to Specific Course Material
• JKAA – Use of Restraints and Seclusion
• JLCJ – Concussions and Head Injuries

Chris explained the details of the policies. A second reading will take place at the January School Board meeting.

Homeless Protocol: Judy outlined the School District responsibilities regarding the McKinney-Vento legislation, providing services to students who would fall under the definition of “homeless” as defined by the Department of Education.

Superintendent’s Report: Mark M. highlighted his visits to Andover Elementary/Middle School during recent events that included the veterans ceremony and Grandparents’ Thanksgiving. He recently attended the Christa McAuliffe Technology Conference.

Assistant Superintendent’s Report: Further policy updates will be suspended until after the budget process has concluded.