Lower Merion School District public meetings in 2023
52 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Business Board Meeting - 7:00 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will vote on authorizing universal full-day kindergarten for the 2024-25 school year, along with a resolution to cap any tax increase at 5.3%. The consent agenda includes approvals for HR actions, student services agreements, overnight field trips, technology contracts, and a bus purchase. Public comment is taken in person and via Zoom chat.
- Authorize universal full-day kindergarten for 2024-25
- Adopt resolution to not raise taxes more than 5.3% for 2024-25
- Award contract for two Micro Bird 30-passenger school buses
- Approve $103,717.59 Cisco Smartnet renewal and $10,408.24 upgrade
- Approve $6,583.32 donation from Belmont Hills HSA for AV equipment
Finance Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Finance Committee is meeting to review the draft 2022-23 audit report presented by BBD, LLP. The meeting is recorded and livestreamed. The next meeting date is to be determined.
- Review of 2022-23 Audit Report by Carl Hogan and Stewart Morcom of BBD, LLP
- Draft financial statements for 2022-23 attached (940 KB PDF)
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Facilities and Purchasing Committee is meeting to review various district financial and operational items. Discussion topics include a list of bills, district contracts, and several technology renewal quotes.
- List of Bills
- Purchasing Report
- District Contracts
- Approved Contracted Drivers and Aides
- ePlus Cloud to Cloud Quote, Barracuda Archiver, and Nutanix renewals
Policy Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Policy Committee is meeting to review and discuss several school policies, including proposed second readings for student transportation and safety/security, and a first reading for student athletics. The committee will also discuss a range of other policies, such as board meetings, curriculum, grading, and graduation requirements, as part of an ongoing policy review cycle. The meeting is informational and no final votes are expected.
- Second readings proposed for Policy/AR 810 Student Transportation and Policy/AR 705 Safety and Security
- First reading of Policy/AR 151 Student Athletics
- Discussion of Policy 007 Board Meetings and Policy/AR 151 NEW Extra-Curricular Opportunities
- Discussion of curriculum policies (105/105.1, 108, 109, 119) and grading policies (212, 213, 217)
- Future discussion on AI policy implications and Policy 133 Academic Class Rank
Reorganization Meeting of the Board of School Directors
This is the annual reorganization meeting of the Lower Merion Board of School Directors. The board will elect a temporary president, a board president, and a vice president, and will administer the oath of office to five newly elected members. Public comment is limited to the election of officers only.
- Oath of office for newly elected board members Jason Herman, Shayna Kalish, Abby Lerner Rubin, Todd Ridky, and Sarah Thomas
- Election of temporary president, board president, and vice president
- Authorization to file new officer signatures with depositories
Communications Committee Meeting - 7:00 PM
The Lower Merion School District Communications Committee is meeting to discuss ongoing communications projects, including the superintendent's onboarding, safety campaigns, start times graphics, recruitment efforts, and translation work. They will also review social media and website analytics, and consider new business involving SAS Institute and the MLK Afternoon of Service. The agenda is informational with no formal votes or decisions scheduled.
- Review of Dr. Yanni's onboarding, including photos, podcast, and website updates
- Keep Kids Safe campaign topics for November/December
- Bus driver recruitment ads for Clipper Magazine and business cards
- Translation work using Motoword for documents
- New business: SAS Institute and MLK Afternoon of Service
Regular Business Board Meeting - 8 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will vote on routine consent items including personnel actions, student services agreements, and financial reports. Notable decisions include awarding contracts for audio-visual updates at Black Rock Middle School and a major roof replacement at Gladwyne Elementary School, as well as approving several facility-related agreements and purchases.
- Award contracts for theater, library step, large gym, and small gym AV updates at Black Rock Middle School and major roof replacement at Gladwyne Elementary School
- Approve Land Use Agreement with Lower Merion Township for Polo Field recreation facility
- Approve Settlement Agreement with IMC Construction
- Approve Right at School Agreement amendment for kindergarten childcare ($72,500) and transportation ($150,000)
- Approve ScholarChip purchase for attendance and building safety ($62,429)
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Facilities and Purchasing Committee will review a list of bills, a purchasing report, and several proposed contracts, including a ScholarChip attendance and building safety system, an Inquirer recruiting campaign, a Right at School amendment, and a traffic signal change order. These are discussion items, not final decisions.
- List of Bills for 11-20-2023
- Purchasing Report November 2023
- ScholarChip Quote and Purchase Agreement for attendance and building safety (7 kiosks at LMHS), subject to Solicitor review
- Inquirer Recruiting Campaign Quote and Terms and Conditions
- Right at School Amendment for 23.24
Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting 8:00 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors is holding an Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting. The agenda includes a data presentation by Dr. Yanni, public comment, and a list of upcoming meetings. No specific action items or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Data presentation by Dr. Yanni
- Public comment via chat or in person
- Upcoming meetings: Nov 16 Facilities & Purchasing, Nov 20 Regular Business, Nov 29 Communications
Policy Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Policy Committee is meeting to review and discuss various school policies. They will consider second readings for adoption of policies on policy formulation, board meetings, and the school day, as well as first readings for policies on student athletics, student transportation, and safety and security. The committee will also discuss several other policies and administrative regulations, and note that agendas are subject to change.
- Second readings for adoption: Policy 004 (Formulation and Adoption of Policies), Policy/AR 007 (Board Meetings), Policy 804 (School Day for Students)
- First readings: Policy/AR 151 (Student Athletics), Policy/AR 810 (Student Transportation), Policy 705 (Safety & Security)
- Administrative regulation changes: AR 202 (Non-Resident Students), AR 206-4 (Assignment of Students within District)
- Discussion items include new Policy/AR 151 (Extra-Curricular Opportunities) and policies on curriculum, grading, and graduation requirements
- Future discussion topics include AI policy implications, Policy 133 (Academic Class Rank), and Policy 200 (Enrollment of Students)
Curriculum Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Curriculum Committee is meeting to discuss curriculum-related items, including a data presentation, course and textbook proposals, and a contract review. The agenda is largely informational, with no specific decisions or votes listed. The next meeting is scheduled for December 6, 2023.
- Data presentation by Nancy Acconciamessa, Lauren Hopkins, Jason Lilly, Dorie Martin-Pitone
- Course and textbook proposals to be discussed
- Contract review on the agenda
- Meeting live-streamed and recorded for 30 days
Equity & Anti-Racism Committee Meeting- 7 PM
The Lower Merion School District's Equity & Anti-Racism Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) updates, set DEIB goals, and plan upcoming events. The meeting includes an introduction to the new superintendent and a moment of integration for the 60th anniversary.
- Discussion of DEIB updates by DEI Director Shawanna James-Coles and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Alexis McGloin
- DEIB goal setting session
- Upcoming events planning with Amy Buckman
- Moment of Integration: 60th Anniversary
- Next meeting scheduled for December 20, 2023 at 7:00 PM
Regular Business Board Meeting - 8 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will hold its regular business meeting, taking action on consent items including human resources, student services agreements, overnight field trips, bills, and financial reports. The board will also vote on several contracts, including a $168,192.25 Secureworks software license and managed services quote, a three-year Presidio monitoring agreement totaling $56,329.56, and a $9,600 license agreement with Main Line School Night. Additionally, the board will consider first readings of several policies and adopt Policy 151 on Student Athletics.
- Approve CDWG quote for Secureworks software license and managed services for $168,192.25
- Approve Presidio monitoring and support statement of work for $18,776.52/year, total $56,329.56
- Approve license agreement with Main Line School Night for $9,600 for spring 2024 at Lower Merion High School
- Adopt Policy 151 Student Athletics
- Accept donations from Gladwyne Elementary HSA: bronze plaque ($290) and stadiometer ($234.59)
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Facilities and Purchasing Committee will discuss a list of bills, a license agreement for Main Line School Night spring 2024, a Presidio managed services statement of work, and a CDWG Secureworks quote. They will also receive an update on Black Rock Middle School construction. The meeting is open to the public and will be live streamed.
- List of Bills (10-16-2023)
- Main Line School Night License Agreement for spring 2024
- Presidio Managed Services Statement of Work (subject to Solicitor review)
- CDWG Secureworks Quote (Oct 2023)
- Black Rock Middle School Construction Update
Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting 8:00 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors is holding an Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting. The main agenda item is a presentation on mental wellness support for students. The board will also take public comment and note upcoming meeting dates.
- Presentation on Mental Wellness Support - Supporting Our Students
- Public comment via in-person or chat feature
- Upcoming meetings: Oct 12 Facilities & Purchasing, Oct 16 Regular Business, Oct 25 Equity & Anti-Racism
Policy Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Policy Committee is meeting to review and discuss several school policies, including proposed second readings for student athletics and policy formulation, first readings for board meetings, student transportation, and school day, plus discussions on grading and graduation requirements. The committee will also consider an anti-racism/equity inquiry and updates on administrative regulations.
- Second readings: Policy/AR 151 Student Athletics; Policy 004 Formulation and Adoption of Policies
- First readings: Policy/AR 007 Board Meetings; Policy/AR 810 Student Transportation; Policy 804 School Day for Students
- Discussion: Policy/AR 212 Reporting of Student Progress; Policy/AR 213 Grading of Student Progress; Policy/AR 217 High School Graduation Requirements
- Administrative Regulation AR 137 District-Issued Electronic Devices: Students Use, Rights and Responsibilities
- Future discussion: AI policy implications, Policy 133 Academic Class Rank, Policy 200 Enrollment of Students
Curriculum Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Curriculum Committee is meeting to discuss course and textbook proposals, review contracts, and hear presentations on summer programming and mental wellness support. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed.
- Course/Textbook Proposals
- Contract Review
- Summer Programming 2023 presentation by Alexis McGloin
- Mental Wellness Support presentation by Dr. Steven Yanni and Kimberly Fraser
Communications Committee Meeting - 7:00 PM
The Lower Merion School District Communications Committee is meeting to review recent communication projects and discuss upcoming initiatives. The agenda includes old business on spring/summer campaigns and videos, and new business covering superintendent onboarding, Smart Start, Keep Kids Safe LM, and the fall newsletter. No votes or decisions are listed; the meeting is informational and subject to change.
- Review of spring/summer communication campaigns and videos
- Discussion of superintendent onboarding and meet-and-greets
- Planning for LMSD Smart Start initiative
- Planning for Keep Kids Safe LM campaign
- Fall newsletter topics discussion
Regular Business Board Meeting - 8 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will hold a regular business meeting to vote on a consent agenda covering routine items such as meeting minutes, human resources actions, and student services agreements. The board will also consider several contracts, including software renewals, a nursing services agreement, and facility-related awards. Public comment will be taken in person and via Zoom chat.
- Approve Achieve3000 quote for $19,003 for 2023-24 school year
- Approve Bayada Home Health Care nursing contract at $55/hr RN and $43/hr LPN for 2023-25
- Approve UKG (Kronos) software upgrade and renewal for $109,055.80
- Award contracts for Arnold Field landscape buffer, winter backhoe rental, and Clear Touch panels
- Approve 3-year Health Advocate employee assistance program at $1.70 per employee per month
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Facilities and Purchasing Committee is meeting to review and discuss a list of bills, a purchasing report, district contracts, and several software and service agreement renewals. The committee will also receive an update on the Black Rock Middle School construction project. All items are for discussion or information; no final votes are scheduled at this committee level.
- List of Bills for 9-18-2023
- Purchasing Report September 2023
- District Contracts September 2023
- Rally Bus Status Software two-year renewal
- RF Design and Integration Inc. five-year service and maintenance renewal agreement
Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting 8:00 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors is holding an Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting. The agenda includes a presentation on the Schoology learning platform, public comment, and a list of upcoming meetings. No specific action items or dollar amounts are listed.
- Schoology presentation by Laura Hutelmyer and Kimberly Phillips
- Public comment via in-person or Zoom chat
- Upcoming meetings: Sept 14 Facilities & Purchasing, Sept 18 Regular Business, Sept 27 Communications
Policy Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Policy Committee is meeting to review and discuss several policies, including first readings for student athletics and policy formulation, and discussions on board meetings and student transportation. The committee will also consider administrative regulation changes and future policy topics like AI use and grading.
- First Reading: Policy/AR 151 Student Athletics (revised)
- First Reading: Policy 004 Formulation and Adoption of Policies
- Discussion: Policy/AR 007 Board Meetings
- Discussion: Policy/AR 810 Student Transportation
- Administrative Regulation changes: AR 124 Extracurricular/Co-Curricular Activities, AR 136 Home Education
Curriculum Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Curriculum Committee is meeting to discuss curriculum-related items, including course and textbook proposals, contract reviews, and presentations on technology and kindergarten. The committee will consider two contracts: one for Ableton Inc. for music departments and one for Fluxspace Innovations for a library upgrade. Presentations will cover the Harriton High School library technology, a full-day kindergarten update, and the Schoology learning platform.
- Contract review: Ableton Inc. $14,246.00 for High School Music Departments at Harriton and Lower Merion High Schools
- Contract review: Fluxspace Innovations $24,732.78 for Harriton High School Library Upgrade
- Presentation: Harriton High School Library Technology by Scott Weinstein, Katelyn Jaxheimer, Laura Hutelmyer
- Presentation: Full Day Kindergarten Update by Alexis McGloin
- Presentation: Schoology by Kim Phillips, Beth Hampton, Laura Hutelmyer
Regular Business Board Meeting - 8 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will hold its regular business meeting on August 21, 2023, at 8 PM, with public comment in person and via Zoom. The board will consider a range of recommended actions, including approving HR changes, student services contracts, educational software purchases, and facilities contracts. The agenda includes a proclamation for the 60th anniversary of the Moment of Integration.
- Approve HR actions HR-1 through HR-3, including new hires, resignations, and reclassifications
- Approve independent consultant contract with Amy Barnett for literacy specialist/Wilson training, not to exceed $15,000
- Approve Chadds Ford Alternacare contract for nurses and PCAs at $70/hr RN, $60/hr LPN, $36/hr PCA
- Approve purchase of i-Ready Learning Assessment and Teacher Toolbox for $33,515
- Approve Boathouse License Agreement with Villanova University for Harriton High School Crew Team, $17,500
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Facilities and Purchasing Committee is meeting to review a list of bills, purchasing reports, district contracts, and various service agreements. They will also receive updates on the Black Rock Middle School construction project. The meeting is a discussion and information session, with no final votes scheduled.
- List of Bills and Purchasing Report for August 2023
- District Contracts, including renewals for Curriculum Associates and TCI
- Villanova Boathouse Agreement for Harriton High School crew (2023-24)
- Student Transportation Contracts for 2023-24 with Assist Services, Ever Driven, and First Student
- Change Orders for Black Rock Middle School construction
Regular Business Board Meeting - 8 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will vote on a series of routine administrative actions, including approving meeting minutes, human resources changes, and extending the Acting Superintendent's term. The bulk of the agenda consists of approving renewals for educational software and service contracts for the 2023-24 school year, with specific dollar amounts listed for each. Public comment will be taken in person and via Zoom chat.
- Extend Megan E. Shafer as Acting Superintendent through August 13, 2023
- Approve Student Services Agreements SS-1 to SS-15 for non-district educational services
- Renew Austill's Rehabilitation Services contract: $67.46/hr (Year 1), $69.82/hr OTR and $67.42/hr PT (Year 2)
- Renew Timothy A. Woods, MD, PC contract for $35,000 (physician services)
- Renew multiple software licenses: Newsela $83,842, ProQuest $55,536.03, NoRedInk $31,415, GALE Cengage $28,000
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Facilities and Purchasing Committee is meeting to review a list of bills, a purchasing report, district contracts, and several specific agreements, including security services, internet, and software contracts. They will also discuss change orders and construction updates for Black Rock Middle School. All items are for discussion or information; no final votes are listed on this agenda.
- List of Bills for 7-17-2023
- Advanced Protection Company Security Services Agreement, subject to Solicitor review
- Comcast Internet Essentials Fourth Amendment to Agreement
- Change Orders for Black Rock Middle School
- Spiezle Architectural Group PSAs 16, 17, and 18 for Black Rock Middle School
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Facilities and Purchasing Committee will discuss and review a list of bills, purchasing reports, district contracts, and several specific agreements including the Hines Rowing Facilities Lease, student transportation contracts for 2023-24, and a software renewal. They will also receive updates on the Black Rock Middle School construction and annual lead-in-water testing. This is a working session; no final votes are scheduled.
- List of Bills for 6-20-2023
- Hines Rowing Facilities Lease 2023-24
- Student Transportation Contracts for 2023-24 (multiple vendors)
- Change Orders for Black Rock Middle School
- Annual Reporting Under PA Act 39 - Lead in Drinking Water
Equity & Anti-Racism Committee Meeting- 7 PM
The Lower Merion School District's Equity & Anti-Racism Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the Anti-Racism Task Force (AITF) update, presented by Dr. McGloin, Ms. James-Coles, and subcommittee leads. The meeting includes opening remarks and introductions, with a focus on connecting community, student, and teacher voices. No formal decisions are listed; the agenda is primarily informational and procedural.
- AITF Update presented by Dr. McGloin, Ms. James-Coles, and subcommittee leads
- Meeting held via Zoom (Meeting ID: 929 3131 4661, Passcode: 635583)
- Next meeting scheduled for October 25, 2023 at 7:00 PM
Policy Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Policy Committee is meeting to review and discuss several policies, including proposed second readings for adoption of revised student rights and responsibilities, repeal of the discriminatory harassment policy, and updated student wellness policy. The committee will also discuss administrative regulation changes and future policy topics. No first readings are scheduled for this meeting.
- Second reading: Policy/AR 235 Student Rights and Responsibilities (revised)
- Proposed repeal: Policy/AR 246 Discriminatory Harassment, Bullying and Hazing
- Second reading: Policy/AR 254 Student Wellness (revised)
- AR 137 District-Issued Electronic Devices: Students Use, Rights and Responsibilities
- AR 713 Use of District Facilities - Attachment B and C (facility fees)
Equity & Anti-Racism Committee Meeting- 7 PM
The Lower Merion School District Equity & Anti-Racism Committee is meeting via Zoom to discuss community, student, and teacher voice in education. Agenda items include a presentation by Acting Superintendent Megan Shafer, an update on elevating student voice by DEIB Director Shawanna James-Coles, and a report on teacher voice efforts by Dr. Alexis McGloin and Dr. Jennifer Gaudioso. The committee will also review upcoming events and set its next meeting for June 14, 2023.
- Listen, Learn, and Lead presentation by Acting Superintendent Megan Shafer
- Elevating Student Voice update by DEIB Director Shawanna James-Coles
- Teacher voice belonging efforts by Dr. Alexis McGloin and Dr. Jennifer Gaudioso
- Upcoming events discussion with Amy Buckman and Shawanna James-Coles
- Next meeting scheduled for June 14, 2023 at 7:00 PM
Curriculum Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Curriculum Committee is meeting to review course and textbook proposals, contract renewals for educational software, and a presentation on middle school integrative block and specials. The committee will consider renewing subscriptions for BrainPOP, Pear Deck, and SchoolMint, as well as a quote for digital health class licenses and an agreement with Montgomery County Intermediate Unit.
- Renewal of BrainPOP subscription for 2023-2024 at $28,014.48
- Renewal of Pear Deck subscription for 2023-2024 at $23,454.75
- Quote from Goodheart-Willcox for digital licenses for 10th grade health classes at $11,997.00
- Renewal of SchoolMint software for 2023-2024 at $10,258.71
- Agreement with Montgomery County Intermediate Unit for Language Instruction Educational Program Review at $15,975.00
Finance Committee Meeting Budget Review - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Finance Committee is meeting publicly to review the 2023-24 budget, specifically focusing on non-instructional support programs and services. The agenda includes a discussion item for this review and information about the next budget review meeting scheduled for May 10, 2023, which will cover reserves, fund balance, capital reserve transfer, and budget follow-ups.
- Review of 2023-24 Budget for Non-Instructional Support Programs and Services
- Next meeting: May 10, 2023 - Reserves/Fund Balance, Capital Reserve Transfer, & Budget Follow-Ups
- Meeting held at District Administration Building, 301 E. Montgomery Ave., Ardmore, PA
Finance Committee Meeting Budget Review - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Finance Committee is meeting publicly to review the 2023-24 budget, focusing on staffing/personnel, instructional programs, and student services. The agenda includes a discussion item with an attached budget document. Future meetings are scheduled for April 26 on non-instructional support programs and May 10 on reserves and capital reserve transfer.
- Review of 2023-24 budget: staffing/personnel, instructional programs, student services
- Discussion item with attached file 4-19-23 Finance Committee.pdf (2,881 KB)
- Next meeting April 26, 2023: Non-Instructional Support Programs and Services
- Next meeting May 10, 2023: Reserves/Fund Balance and Capital Reserve Transfer
Regular Business Board Meeting - 8 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will vote on several technology and facilities contracts, including a $1,706,650.75 Apple equipment and service agreement, a $740,072 Dell devices quote, and a $29,456 email migration service. They will also consider routine approvals for minutes, human resources actions, student services agreements, and financial reports. Public comment is accepted in person and via Zoom chat.
- Approve Apple equipment and service agreement for $1,706,650.75
- Approve Dell Technologies quote for $740,072 for new devices and deployment
- Approve contract renewals: Illuminate Education ($70,230) and Edulink/PA-ETEP ($29,117)
- Award contracts for fire/burglar monitoring, BAS service, gym floor refinishing, and more
- Accept donations: trees valued at ~$1,400 to Merion Elementary and $180 to offset student lunch debt
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Facilities and Purchasing Committee will discuss and review a list of bills, purchasing reports, district contracts, and several technology and construction items. Notable items include a $1,706,650.75 Apple purchase, Dell Chromebooks for elementary and middle schools, and multiple contracts and change orders for Black Rock Middle School construction. The meeting is a discussion and review session, not a final decision-making body.
- Apple quotes and short-term payment agreement totaling $1,706,650.75, subject to solicitor review
- Dell Chromebooks and managed deployment installation services for elementary and middle schools
- Byron Purnell contract renewal for photography services
- Spiezle Architectural Group PSA 015 for Black Rock Middle School
- Construction change directive and change orders for Black Rock Middle School (Gessler Construction)
Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting 8:00 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors is holding an Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting. They will receive an update on the superintendent search, presentations on the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and full-day kindergarten, and consider recommended human resources actions. Public comment will be taken in person and via chat.
- Superintendent search update with attached leadership profile report
- MTSS presentation by Jennifer Gaudioso, William Williams, Dorie Martin-Pitone, and Kelly Peterson
- Full-day kindergarten presentation/update by Alexis McGloin and Kristina Ayers Paul
- Recommended action on Human Resources items HR-1 and HR-2 (substitutes, new hires, retirements, etc.)
Regular Business Board Meeting - 8 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will decide whether to implement a new school start-time schedule beginning in September 2023, with middle schools starting first at 8:00 AM, high schools at 8:40 AM, and elementary schools at 9:20 AM. The board will also consider routine approvals including minutes, human resources actions, a staffing agreement, student services agreements, a world language textbook purchase, overnight field trips, bills, financial reports, donations, a settlement agreement, surplus declarations, and facilities contracts.
- Vote on new school start times: middle 8:00 AM-2:50 PM, high 8:40 AM-3:30 PM, elementary 9:20 AM-4:05 PM
- Approve staffing agreement with Explorations Mental Health Services for interim Cynwyd Elementary principal at $522.50/day for 80 days
- Approve Hands Up Education quote for world language texts in the amount of $50,028
- Approve settlement agreement with KCBA Architects, Barry Isett & Associates, KC Construction Co., Craig Testing Laboratories, and Foreman Program and Construction Managers
- Award contracts for cargo trailer, zero-turn mower, building automation upgrades at HHS and LMHS, masonry repairs at BHES, roof repairs at Rock Hill Road, and football uniforms for HHS
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Facilities and Purchasing Committee will review a list of bills, a purchasing report, and several contracts and quotes, including a zero-dollar boathouse license agreement with Villanova University, IT system renewals, a wireless system quote, an HVAC service contract, a fiber WAN contract, a turf tank sub-rental, a snow plowing agreement, a textbook purchase, and change orders for Black Rock Middle School. The committee will also receive a construction update on Black Rock Middle School. All items are for discussion or information; no final votes are listed on this agenda.
- Boathouse license agreement with Villanova University for a license fee of zero dollars, subject to Solicitor review
- ImageTech Systems quotes for Knowledge Lake Renewal and Nintex Renewal
- Presidio Network Solutions Cisco quote for wireless system components
- ePlus one-year service contract for Schneider HVAC system
- Change orders for Black Rock Middle School, including tennis court undercut and tile board items
Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting 8:00 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors is holding an Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting. The agenda includes presentations on extracurricular activities and district fields, and on healthy start times, followed by public comment and any recommended actions.
- Presentation: Extracurricular Activities and District Fields Update
- Presentation: Healthy Start Times Update
- Public comment via in-person or chat feature
Policy Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Policy Committee is meeting to review and discuss multiple school policies, including second readings for adoption of cybersecurity and property tax waiver policies, and first readings for policies on student supports, field trips, extracurricular activities, and home education. The committee will also discuss student rights, bullying, wellness, and graduation requirements. This is a working session with no final votes; policies move to the Business Meeting for approval.
- Second reading: Policy 832 Cybersecurity and Data Breach Response
- Second reading: Policy/AR 604 Property Tax Interest and Penalty Waiver Request
- First reading: Policy 114 Individualized Student Supports and Services
- First reading: Policy/AR 121 Field Trips and Class Trips
- First reading: Policy/AR 124 Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities
Curriculum Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Curriculum Committee is meeting to discuss and review a proposed Latin textbook, receive an update on the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and handle routine business. The agenda includes a presentation on MTSS and a contract review, but no votes or final decisions are listed.
- World Language Latin Textbook Proposal by Allison Mellet and Shannon Davis
- MTSS Update presentation by MTSS Representatives
- Contract Review item (no details provided)
- Next meeting scheduled for March 29, 2023
Equity & Anti-Racism Committee Meeting- 7 PM
The Lower Merion School District's Equity & Anti-Racism Committee is meeting virtually to discuss equity-related topics. They will receive updates on the district's DEIB efforts, the CARE program, GSIB initiatives, an EDI study, and a wellness policy. The meeting is informational, with no votes scheduled.
- DEIB update from DEI Director Shawanna James-Coles and Acting Superintendent Shafer
- CARE update from SAGE Wellness consultant Victorious Hall
- GSIB update from Watershed Counseling consultant Dr. Jeanne Stanley
- EDI study update from Assistant Superintendent Dr. Alexis McGloin
- Wellness policy discussion led by Acting Superintendent Shafer
Regular Business Board Meeting - 8 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will hold a regular business meeting with several recommended actions, including approving human resources actions, student services agreements, summer school fees, and various facility contracts. The board will also hear a presentation on Healthy Start Times and receive reports from student representatives and committees.
- Approve 2023 Summer School tuition fees, including $915 resident and $1,850 non-resident for 4.5-hour courses
- Approve MCIU agreement for ACCESS billing at $70/hour and 2023-24 MCIU Member Services Budget with $151,242 charge to district
- Award contracts for furniture, fitness room, uniforms, and other items at multiple schools
- Approve overnight field trip requests for band, choir, track, and other activities
- Accept donations including $500 to LMHS Art Department and a Slinger ball machine valued at $700
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Facilities and Purchasing Committee is meeting to review a list of bills, purchasing reports, district contracts, and several specific agreements and quotes. They will also discuss construction change directives and change orders for Black Rock Middle School, and receive an update on the school's construction. The meeting is a discussion and information session, not a final decision-making body.
- List of Bills for 2-21-2023 (revised)
- Narberth Ambulance Service Agreement for Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
- Kaiserman JCC Field Rental Agreement for Spring 2023
- Visual Sound quote for SMART Learning Suite software subscription renewal
- ePlus quote to purchase Cisco IP phones
Policy Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Policy Committee is meeting to review and discuss several policies, including a second reading of Policy/AR 825 on relationships with law enforcement, first readings of policies on cybersecurity, home education, and tax waiver requests, and a discussion on student wellness policy. The committee will also be informed of administrative regulation changes and future policy review topics.
- Second reading of Policy/AR 825 Relationship with Law Enforcement, including a 2021 MOU with Lower Merion Police Department
- First readings: Policy 8XX Cybersecurity, Policy/AR 136 Home Education, Policy/AR 604 Tax Waiver Requests
- Discussion of Policy/AR 254 Student Wellness
- Administrative regulation changes: AR 114-2 (Section 504), AR 124 (Extracurricular), AR 610 (Purchasing)
- Future topics: Name, Image and Likeness; Academic Class Rank; Grading; Bullying; School Day
Regular Business Board Meeting - 8 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will consider several major actions, including appointing an acting superintendent, authorizing planning for full-day kindergarten, and moving forward with a new school start time schedule. The board will also hear updates on full-day kindergarten and healthy start times, and vote on various contracts and routine items.
- Appoint Megan Shafer as Acting Superintendent retroactive to Jan 17, 2023
- Authorize $25,000 for engagement on new start times (middle 8:00, high 8:40, elementary 9:20)
- Authorize planning for 2024-25 full-day kindergarten implementation
- Approve $8,000 agreement with School Threat Assessment Consultants for workshops
- Approve $15,000 agreement with Brooke Workman for 2022-23 school year
Facilities and Purchasing Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Facilities and Purchasing Committee is meeting to discuss and review a list of bills, a purchasing report, district contracts, and several technology quotes. They will also review change orders for the Black Rock Middle School construction project and receive an update on the project. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed.
- List of Bills - Mr. Orlando
- Purchasing Report January 2023
- District Contracts Jan 2023
- Saint Joseph's University License Agreement for HHS and LMHS 2023 graduations
- Change Orders for Black Rock Middle School
Legislative Committee Meeting - 7:00 PM
The Lower Merion School District Legislative Committee is meeting publicly via Zoom to discuss legislative advocacy. The agenda includes a presentation on the fair funding lawsuit by Jennifer Hoff, a board director from the William Penn School District, followed by a moderated conversation on advocacy opportunities for school boards and community members. The meeting is informational, with no votes or decisions scheduled.
- Presentation on fair funding lawsuit by Jennifer Hoff
- Moderated conversation on legislative advocacy opportunities
- Welcome of PSBA Advocacy Ambassadors Jennifer Hoff and Katie Gilmartin
- Next meeting scheduled for May 18, 2023 at 7 PM
Education Committee and Supplementary Regular Board Meeting 8:00 PM
The Lower Merion Board of School Directors will consider accepting the resignation of Superintendent Dr. Khalid N. Mumin, effective January 16, 2023, and waiving the 90-day notice requirement. The meeting also includes a data presentation on student performance and an opportunity for public comment.
- Accept resignation of Superintendent Dr. Khalid N. Mumin effective Jan 16, 2023, waive 90-day notice
- Data presentation by Jason Lilly, Dorie Martin-Pitone, Nancy Acconciamessa, Lauren Hopkins
- Public comment via chat or in person
- Upcoming meetings: Jan 18 Legislative Committee, Jan 19 Facilities & Purchasing, Jan 23 Regular Business, Jan 25 Communications
Policy Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Policy Committee is meeting to review and discuss several policies, including proposed second readings for student voter engagement and repeal of employee personal use of district property, a first reading on the relationship with law enforcement, and a discussion on student wellness. The committee will also receive updates on administrative regulations and plan for future policy reviews.
- Second reading: Policy/AR 153 Student Voter Engagement (revised)
- Proposed repeal: Policy 720 Employee Personal Use of District Property
- First reading: Policy/AR 825 Relationship with Law Enforcement
- Discussion: Policy/AR 254 Student Wellness
- Future topics: cybersecurity, name/image/likeness, home education, grading
Curriculum Committee Meeting - 8:30 AM
The Lower Merion School District Curriculum Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially approve course/textbook proposals, review contracts including a $15,000 agreement with Brooke Workman and a $227,893 purchase for elementary projector installation, and receive presentations on disaggregated data and elementary interactive boards. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed.
- Approve agreement with Brooke Workman for $15,000 for 2022-23 school year
- Approve Starlite purchase for elementary school projector installation for $227,893
- Presentation on disaggregated data by Jason Lilly, Lauren Hopkins, Nancy Acconciamessa, Dorie Martin-Pitone
- Presentation on elementary interactive boards by Jennifer Goldberg and Robin Klaiber