Portland Public Schools public meetings in 2021
83 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland School Board is meeting to discuss proposed changes to the board's committee structure and policy BCD. The agenda also includes a school reopening update from the Superintendent and revisions to the Buildings for our Future governance structure.
- Proposed reorganization of Finance, Personnel, and Operations Committees
- Proposed merger of Policy/Legislative Affairs and Curriculum and Educational Planning Committees
- Action to approve revisions to Board Policy BCD regarding committees and advisory panels
- Revision of the Buildings for our Future governance structure
- Approval of meeting minutes from December 6 and December 7, 2021
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Board will hold a business meeting, workshop, and executive session on December 7, 2021. The board will vote on a contract extension for the superintendent, approve personnel items, and consider first readings of revisions to board policies and committee structure. A workshop will discuss policy revisions and guidance on a special board election, and an executive session will address negotiations with the Educational Technicians unit.
- Contract extension for superintendent (2022-2024)
- First read of revisions to Board Policy BCD (standing committees, special committees, citizen advisory panels)
- Proposed committee reorganization: combining Finance/Personnel/Operations and Policy/Legislative/Curriculum committees
- Approval of meeting minutes from November 16, 2021
- Acknowledgment of donations, including from Portland Female Charitable Society and Hannaford gift cards
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Board of Public Education is holding its inauguration ceremony, including the swearing-in of newly elected members and the election of a chairperson for the 2021-2022 school year. The meeting is largely procedural, with public comment available.
- Oath of office administered to newly elected board members by City Clerk Katherine Jones
- Election of board chairperson for 2021-2022 school year
- Recognition of outgoing board members
- Public comment via Zoom or phone
BoardDocs - Archive
The Curriculum and Ed Planning Committee will review implementation of Priority 1 initiatives (Achievement/Equity - Strengthen Tier 1 Instruction) and resource allocations in preparation for the next budget. They will also vote on approving the October 12, 2021 meeting minutes and adjournment.
- Review of Priority 1 initiatives: math, social studies, science, content-based literacy, outdoor learning, technology integration, formative assessment
- Review of resource allocations: local, ESSERF, federal
- Approval of October 12, 2021 meeting minutes
- Public comment via Zoom with raised hand feature
BoardDocs - Archive
The Policy Committee met on November 23, 2021, to discuss draft policies regarding student drug and alcohol use. The committee also reviewed minutes from the October 26, 2021, meeting.
- Discussion of Policy JICH and JICH-R Student Drug and Alcohol Use
- Approval of October 26, 2021, meeting minutes
BoardDocs - Archive
The District Advisory Building Committee (DABC) is meeting to advise the Portland Board of Public Education on the construction and renovation of four elementary schools: Lyseth, Presumpscot, Reiche, and Longfellow. The agenda includes approving the minutes from the October 21, 2021 meeting, receiving permitting updates for Longfellow, Reiche, and Presumpscot, and discussing project impacts and next steps. The board retains final authority over all decisions.
- Approval of October 21, 2021 meeting minutes
- Permitting updates for Longfellow, Reiche, and Presumpscot elementary schools
- Discussion of project impacts and next steps
- Advisory role to Portland Board of Public Education on four-school construction
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Public Affairs Committee will meet on November 17, 2021, to discuss and act on several items, including a new transportation policy, meals for quarantined students, a State of Schools report, vaccination updates, a website development update, and the United Way campaign. The committee will also approve minutes from the October 20 meeting and adjourn.
- Approval of October 20, 2021 Public Affairs Committee meeting minutes
- New transportation policy created (with 'How to Ride the Metro' guides for middle and elementary schools)
- Meals for quarantined students starting November 22
- Vaccination updates for elementary students starting November 15
- United Way campaign with pledge link
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Board of Public Education will hold a caucus to nominate a chairperson for 2021-2022, with a non-binding straw vote. The business meeting includes action on a bus driver incentive MOU, several transportation policies, and a probationary teacher hire. The board will also discuss enrollment and attendance, and enter executive session for the superintendent's evaluation.
- Nomination of Emily Figdor as Board Chairperson (straw vote)
- Approve MOU with BASE CBU for bus driver incentives
- Approve revisions to policies on private vehicle use (EEBB, EEBR) and district-owned vehicles (EEAD, EEADA)
- Approve removal of Policy IHCD (Advanced Placement Program)
- Hire Travis McCutcheon as probationary Special Educator at $64,082 (prorated)
BoardDocs - Archive
The Finance and Personnel Committee meeting scheduled for November 10, 2021, was canceled. The agenda included approval of minutes from August and October meetings, but no business items were discussed.
- Meeting canceled
- Approval of August 12, 2021 minutes (not acted on)
- Approval of October 14, 2021 minutes (not acted on)
BoardDocs - Archive
The Board is reviewing recommendations for the Charter Commission and conducting first reads on several policy updates. The agenda also includes approving teacher elections and acknowledging various school donations.
- Authorization of Chair to finalize and deliver School Board recommendations to Charter Commission
- First read of a Memorandum of Understanding with BASE CBU for bus driver incentives
- First read of policy updates regarding private vehicle use and district-owned vehicles
- Approval of teacher candidate elections including Dominique Mattozzi ($55,795), Timothy LeClerb ($61,136), and Clare Dwyer ($65,554)
- Acknowledgment of donations including school supplies, backpacks, and a 1999 Club Car golf cart
BoardDocs - Archive
The Building Level Advisory Committees for Reiche, Presumpscot, and Longfellow elementary schools are holding separate Zoom meetings to review agendas, approve minutes, and discuss permitting updates and project impacts. These are routine advisory meetings with no decisions listed on the agenda.
- Reiche, Presumpscot, and Longfellow BLAC meetings via Zoom
- Permitting update discussions at each school
- Impact to project discussions at each school
- Approval of minutes from August 26, 2021 meetings
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting to discuss and take action on several student-related policies, including questioning and search of students, student drug and alcohol use, and student transportation. The committee will also reflect on its 2020-2021 work plan. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.
- Discussion and action on Policy JIH and JIH-R (Questioning and Search of Students)
- Discussion of Policy JICH and JICH-R (Student Drug and Alcohol Use)
- Discussion and action on Student Transportation Policies, including proposed Policy EEBB (Private vehicle use)
- Reflection on Policy Committee Work Plan for 2020-2021
BoardDocs - Archive
The District Advisory Building Committee (DABC) is meeting to advise the Portland Board of Public Education on the construction and renovation of four elementary schools: Lyseth, Presumpscot, Reiche, and Longfellow. The agenda includes debriefing the groundbreaking, reviewing permitting timelines for the projects, and setting future meeting dates. This is a working session with no final decisions expected.
- Review of permitting timelines for school projects (City Memo re-Schools Permit Status 10.13.2021)
- Debrief of groundbreaking for the four elementary school projects
- Approval of meeting minutes from August 19, 2021
- Upcoming schedule: DBAC Oct 22, Community Forum Oct 30, BLAC Nov 8, DBAC Nov 14 (canceled), BLAC Dec 6, DBAC Dec 13, BLAC Jan 10, Community Forum Jan 17
BoardDocs - Archive
The Public Affairs Committee met on October 20, 2021, to review previous meeting minutes and discuss business items. The committee addressed the scheduling of videos regarding the School Board and confirmed details for Coffee with Constituents.
- Approval of September 16 Policy Committee Meeting minutes
- Confirmation of Coffee with Constituents
- Scheduling for Board of Ed. Video Tapping
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland School Board is meeting to consider multiple policy updates regarding law enforcement involvement, security cameras, and student records. The agenda also includes a discussion on recommendations for the Portland Charter Commission and applications for renovation fund loans.
- Approval of Policy KLGB regarding Law Enforcement Involvement in Student Matters
- Approval of Policy ECAD regarding Security Cameras
- Approval of Policy EBCC regarding Bomb Threats
- Approval of Policy JRA regarding Student Records
- Approval of Policy KI regarding Visitors to the Schools
BoardDocs - Archive
The Finance and Personnel Committee met on October 14, 2021, to review information regarding recommendations for the Portland Charter Commission. The committee also reviewed the minutes from the August 2021 meeting.
- Review of recommendations to Portland Charter Commission
- Approval of August 2021 Finance Committee Meeting minutes
BoardDocs - Archive
The Curriculum and Ed Planning Committee is meeting to review the current position of the Portland Public Schools Pre-K Program, with a discussion and presentation. The committee will also vote to approve the minutes from the September 14, 2021 meeting and adjourn. Public comment is invited via Zoom.
- Review of Pre-K Program position (discussion)
- Approval of September 14, 2021 meeting minutes
- Vote to adjourn
BoardDocs - Archive
The Operations Committee met to review food service status and capital improvement planning. The agenda included updates on the FY 19-22 CIP Action Plan and planning for FY 23 Capital Improvement Projects.
- Approval of August 5th Operations Committee Meeting minutes
- Food Service Status Report
- Update on FY 19-22 CIP Action Plan
- FY 23 Capital Improvement Projects planning
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Board of Public Education will hold a hybrid business meeting and workshop on October 5, 2021, at Casco Bay High School. The board will consider ratifying an agreement with the Portland Education Association and Educational Technicians unit, approve several policy revisions, and discuss law enforcement-related policies in a workshop. Public comment will be taken.
- Ratify agreement with Portland Education Association and Educational Technicians unit
- Approve policies on compulsory attendance, immunization, suspension, and expulsion
- First read of policies on law enforcement involvement, security cameras, bomb threats, student records, and visitors
- Acknowledge $5,000 donation from David Lyall for SLIFE at Portland High School
- Approve personnel items including teacher candidates
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting to discuss and take action on revisions to law enforcement policies, including draft policies on bomb threats, security cameras, student drug and alcohol use, questioning and searches of students, student records, visitors, and relations with law enforcement. The committee will also approve minutes from the August 24, 2021 meeting and vote to adjourn.
- Discussion and action on law enforcement policies, including draft policies on bomb threats, security cameras, student drug and alcohol use, questioning and searches of students, student records, visitors, and relations with law enforcement
- Approval of minutes from August 24, 2021 Policy Committee meeting
- Vote to adjourn the meeting
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Board will hold a hybrid business meeting and workshop on September 21, 2021, at Casco Bay High School and via Zoom. They will receive updates on school reopening, hear from students, and consider approving minutes and personnel items. The board will also hold first readings of revised policies on attendance, immunization, suspension, and expulsion, followed by a workshop on these revisions.
- First read of policy JEA (Compulsory Attendance), JLCB (Immunization), JKD (Suspension), JKE (Expulsion)
- Reopening update including case update, mitigation strategies, and supports for quarantined students
- Approval of donations including 250 backpacks valued at $500 from Jarmin Kaltas, Maine Standard BioFuels, and $500 from Martha Frost Insurance
- Approval of meeting minutes from September 7, 2021
- Election of teacher candidates (one-year and probationary)
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools board is holding a virtual executive session on September 19, 2021. The only substantive item is a discussion of the superintendent's evaluation, conducted in closed session under Maine law. The agenda is otherwise procedural, covering the call to order and the vote to exit the executive session.
- Executive session to discuss the Superintendent's evaluation pursuant to 1 MRSA Section 405 (6)(A)
- Virtual meeting via Zoom
- Vote to enter and exit executive session
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Public Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss communication about pooled COVID-19 testing, a survey on vaccination, a website development update, and the upcoming Back-to-School Fair. The committee will also vote on approving the minutes from the August 18, 2021 meeting and adjournment.
- Approval of August 18, 2021 Public Affairs Committee meeting minutes
- Discussion of pooled testing communication materials
- Discussion of vaccination survey
- Website development update
- Back-to-School Fair on September 18, 9-1 at EECS
BoardDocs - Archive
The Curriculum and Ed Planning Committee will review the current Advanced Placement (AP) policy, examine enrollment and test-taking data, and discuss an administration recommendation. They may vote to bring a recommendation to the full Board. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and public comment.
- Review of current AP policy (IHCD - Advanced Placement Program)
- Review of AP enrollment and test-taking data
- Discussion of administration recommendation on AP policy
- Possible vote to forward recommendation to full Board
- Approval of August 19, 2021 meeting minutes
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Board will hold a business meeting, workshop, and executive session on September 7, 2021. Key actions include voting on a resolution to require COVID-19 vaccination for all employees, approving personnel items, and accepting donations. The board will also receive updates on reopening and staff vaccination data, and discuss school governance with the Charter Commission.
- Consideration and action to require vaccination for PPS employees [A-103-21/22]
- Approval of teacher candidates (probationary and one-year-only) [A-104-20/21, A-105-21/22]
- Acknowledgement of $390 donation from Cumberland County Federal Credit Union
- Workshop on Charter Commission and school governance
- Executive sessions for legal consultation and superintendent evaluation
BoardDocs - Archive
The Building Level Advisory Committees (BLAC) for Reiche, Presumpscot, and Longfellow elementary schools are scheduled for meetings on August 26, 2021. The agenda consists of procedural items including agenda reviews, approval of previous minutes, and project updates.
- Review of agendas and materials for Reiche, Presumpscot, and Longfellow
- Approval of May 27, 2021, meeting minutes for all three schools
- Project updates for Reiche Elementary School
- Project updates for Presumpscot Elementary School
- Project updates for Longfellow Elementary School
BoardDocs - Archive
The Policy Committee met to discuss relations with law enforcement authorities. The committee also reviewed updates to policies regarding student attendance, immunization, suspension, and expulsion.
- Discussion on Law Enforcement Policy
- Action on Compulsory School Attendance policy
- Action on Student Immunization policy
- Action on Student Suspension policy
- Action on Student Expulsion policy
BoardDocs - Archive
The Curriculum and Ed Planning Committee is meeting to establish meeting dates for the rest of 2021. The committee will also review priority work for the 2021-2022 school year and preview upcoming topics.
- Review of fall committee priorities (Sept.-Dec.)
- Preview of PreK Lottery System topic
- Preview of Assessment Strategy topic
- Preview of Literacy Vision topic
- Review of Collaboration Structures including staffing analysis
BoardDocs - Archive
The District Advisory Building Committee is meeting to review progress on the renovation of Lyseth, Presumpscot, Reiche, and Longfellow elementary schools. The agenda includes discussions on contractor activities, abatement management, permitting status, and project phasing.
- Discussion of alternate plans
- Review of contractor activities
- Update on abatement management and oversight
- Review of permitting status and design impacts
- Discussion of phasing impacts
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Board held a public hearing and business meeting on August 17, 2021, to review the administration's proposal for a full return to in-person instruction. The Board voted to approve the School Year 2021-22 reopening plans, which include adherence to public health requirements and cleaning protocols. The meeting also included a workshop on the relationship between the Charter Commission and the School Board.
- Approval of School Year 2021-22 Reopening Plans for full in-person instruction [A-100-21/22]
- Public hearing on the administration's health and safety reopening proposal
- Workshop on the Charter Commission and School Board governance matters
- Approval of August 3, 2021 meeting minutes [A-99-21/22]
- Acknowledgement of a $200 donation to the PHS Food Pantry from April & Denis Noonan
BoardDocs - Archive
The Finance and Personnel Committee met on August 12, 2021, to approve the minutes from the April 21, 2021 meeting. The committee received informational reports on the FY20 audit, preliminary FY21 end-of-year updates, and federal funding status. No new contracts or ordinances were decided at this meeting.
- Approval of April 21, 2021 Finance Committee Meeting minutes
- Review of FY '20 Audit Report
- Review of Preliminary FY '21 End of Year Update
- Review of Federal Funding Status Report
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Board of Public Education is meeting in person to consider approving school reopening plans for full in-person instruction, a new policy for hybrid remote meetings, and several personnel and consent items. The board will also review and vote on minutes from prior meetings and acknowledge recent donations.
- Vote on School Year 21-22 Reopening Plans for full in-person return (A-95-21/22)
- Vote on Policy BED for hybrid remote meetings under LD 32 (A-94-21/22)
- Approve minutes from June 15, July 6, and July 20 meetings
- Acknowledge donations: accordion, clarinet ($125), $200 for PHS food pantry
- Approve personnel items: teacher candidates and continuing contracts
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Board of Education is holding a special business meeting to consider two related actions for the Presumpscot Elementary School renovation project under the Buildings for our Future program. The board will vote on shifting $4.3 million from BFOF reserves to cover a budget shortfall and on approving a construction contract with Great Falls Construction. Public comment will be taken via Zoom.
- Vote to approve shifting $4.3 million from BFOF reserves to offset a shortfall in the Presumpscot Elementary renovation budget
- Vote to approve a contract with Great Falls Construction for Presumpscot Elementary renovations
- Public comment period for items not on the agenda
- Remote meeting via Zoom with public comment by raising hand or *9 by phone
BoardDocs - Archive
The District Advisory Building Committee (DABC) is meeting to review background and options for Presumpscot Elementary School renovation bids and to make a recommendation. The committee advises the Portland Board of Public Education, which has final authority over construction and renovation of four elementary schools. The agenda also includes scheduling future meetings and community forums.
- Review of Presumpscot renovation bids background and options
- Committee recommendation on Presumpscot renovation
- Upcoming meeting schedule: DBAC Oct 22, Community Forum Oct 30, BLAC Nov 8, DBAC Nov 14 (canceled), BLAC Dec 6, DBAC Dec 13, BLAC Jan 10, Community Forum Jan 17
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Board of Education is holding a budget hearing and special business meeting to consider allocating $6.2 million in additional FY 2022 Essential Programs and Services funding, as recommended by the Finance Committee, and to forward the plan to the City Council. The board will also workshop options for value-engineering the Presumpscot Elementary School project to align with the lowest bid.
- Action to approve $6.2 million in additional FY 2022 EPS allocation and forward to Portland City Council
- Workshop on value-engineering Presumpscot school scope to conform to lowest bid
- Public comment guidelines and opportunity for comment on agenda items
- Remote meeting via Zoom with phone access and Facebook Live streaming
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to discuss and potentially revise policies related to law enforcement, including bomb threats, security cameras, student searches, and relations with police. The committee will also vote on approving minutes from its May 25 meeting and adjournment.
- Approval of May 25, 2021 Policy Committee meeting minutes
- Discussion of law enforcement policy, including draft policies on bomb threats, security cameras, student drug/alcohol use, questioning and searches of students, and relations with law enforcement
- Review of Portland Safety Dialogue feedback survey summary and model policies from Washington
- Vote to adjourn the meeting
BoardDocs - Archive
The Finance and Personnel Committee is meeting remotely to discuss the FY21 year-to-date expenditure projection, potential uses of additional anticipated EPS (state education funding), and the timing of future meetings after the legislative session. These are discussion items, not final decisions.
- Review of FY21 YTD expenditure projection
- Potential uses of additional anticipated EPS
- Timing and next steps for future committee meetings
BoardDocs - Archive
The District Advisory Building Committee (DABC) is meeting to tour Lyseth Elementary School as part of its advisory role for the renovation of four elementary schools (Lyseth, Presumpscot, Reiche, Longfellow), authorized by the 2017 voter referendum. The tour is the only business item, with DABC members joined by the Lyseth Building Level Advisory Committee and the School Board. The public may join outside but cannot enter the building; a community open house is planned for later in the summer. The agenda also lists upcoming meetings and a schedule for future DABC and community forums.
- Tour of Lyseth Elementary School
- Renovation of four schools: Lyseth, Presumpscot, Reiche, Longfellow
- Authorized by November 7, 2017 voters' referendum
- Public not allowed inside during tour; open house later in summer
- Upcoming meetings: DBAC Oct 22, Community Forum Oct 30, BLAC Nov 8, etc.
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Public Affairs Committee is meeting virtually to approve minutes from May 19, 2021, and discuss four informational items: summer camp communications, PPS Ambassadors materials, a role of the school board video, and public engagement in board meetings. The meeting is procedural with no votes scheduled beyond approving minutes and adjourning.
- Approval of May 19, 2021 Public Affairs Committee meeting minutes
- Discussion of Summer Camp Communications
- Review of PPS Ambassadors Materials
- Discussion of Role of the School Board Video
- Discussion of Public Engagement in School Board Meetings
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Board of Education will hold a remote business meeting on June 15, 2021, to consider several action items, including approving a contract with Hardypond Construction for Reiche Elementary School renovations, revising the graduation requirements policy (IKF), and establishing a new Board Equity Policy. The board will also hear reports from the chair, students, superintendent, and committees, and acknowledge a $200 donation to the PHS Food Pantry.
- Contract with Hardypond Construction for Reiche Elementary School renovations under the Buildings for our Future program
- Revision of Policy IKF - Graduation Requirements
- Establishment of a Board Equity Policy
- Approval of meeting minutes from June 1, 2021
- Acknowledgment of $200 donation from April & Denis Noonan for PHS Food Pantry
BoardDocs - Archive
The Curriculum and Ed Planning Committee will discuss final edits to the Equity Policy before a vote at the next meeting, review data on the K-8 Illustrative Math implementation, and preview the 2020-2021 district teaching and learning priorities. They will also preview fall topics including the PreK lottery system, assessment strategy, literacy vision, and collaboration structures.
- Equity Policy final edits before vote
- Illustrative Math implementation data review
- 8th grade math heterogeneous grouping letter preview
- 2020-2021 teaching and learning priorities
- Fall topics: PreK lottery, assessment, literacy, collaboration
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Board of Education is meeting remotely to conduct routine business, including approving minutes, a consent item, and a memorandum of understanding with the Foundation for Portland Public Schools. They will also take a first read of a new Board Equity Policy and vote on revising Policy IKF on graduation requirements, followed by a workshop on the equity policy.
- Vote to revise Policy IKF - Graduation Requirements
- First read of Board Equity Policy
- Approve MOU with Foundation for Portland Public Schools (July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2023)
- Approve minutes of May 18, 2021 meeting
- Ceremony honoring 2021 retirees (35+ employees)
BoardDocs - Archive
The Building Level Advisory Committee (BLAC) will hold separate sessions for Presumpscot, Reiche, and Longfellow elementary schools. The agenda includes reviews of materials, approval of previous minutes, and project updates.
- Presumpscot Elementary School project update
- Reiche Elementary School project update
- Longfellow Elementary School project update
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to discuss law enforcement policies, including the role of police in schools. The committee will review related policies and procedures, and consider updates to the student code of conduct, weapons/violence, and bullying policies. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and adjournment.
- Discussion of law enforcement policy, including police involvement in schools
- Review of policies on security cameras, student drug/alcohol use, questioning/searches, and records
- Proposed updates to student code of conduct, weapons/violence, and bullying policies
- Approval of minutes from April 28, 2021 Policy Committee meeting
BoardDocs - Archive
The District Advisory Building Committee is meeting to review project updates for Lyseth, Longfellow, Reiche, and Presumpscot schools, and to approve prior meeting minutes. The agenda also includes a review of the upcoming meeting schedule. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.
- Approval of prior meeting minutes (April 15, 2021)
- Lyseth Update
- Longfellow Update
- Reiche Update
- Presumpscot Update
BoardDocs - Archive
The Public Affairs Committee met virtually to review information regarding the PPS Ambassador Program and the role of the School Board. The committee also discussed strategies for engaging parents who are new to the district.
- Approval of March 17, 2021, meeting minutes
- Information session on PPS Ambassador Program
- Information session on understanding the role of the School Board
- Information session on engaging parents new to the district
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Board of Education will hold a business meeting to vote on several items, including revisions to student discipline policies, the 2021-22 school calendar, and proposed school start and end times. They will also consider a resolution on secondary school start times for 2022-23 and a memorandum of understanding with the Foundation for Portland Public Schools. The meeting includes public comment, reports from the chair, students, and superintendent, and an executive session for negotiations.
- Approve discipline policy revisions (JIC, JICIA, JICK, JK, JKD, JKE) with attachments on suspensions and expulsion
- Approve revisions to 2021-22 school calendar (August 31 start)
- Approve revisions to 2021-22 proposed school start and end times
- Approve resolution on secondary school start times for 2022-23
- First read to authorize MOU with Foundation for Portland Public Schools (2021-2023)
BoardDocs - Archive
This is an emergency business meeting scheduled only if needed, following the City Council's guidance on the FY '22 budget. The board may convene to consider options for reducing the approved budget to conform to that guidance. The agenda also includes standard procedural items, recognitions, public comment, and possible executive session.
- Possible reduction of FY '22 budget to conform to City Council guidance
- Public comment on items not on the agenda before 10:00 pm
- Possible executive session under 1 M.R.S.A. §
- Upcoming school board and committee meetings listed
BoardDocs - Archive
The Curriculum and Ed Planning Committee is meeting virtually to review and vote on sending a revised Graduation Policy and an Equity Policy to the Full Board for consideration. They will also approve minutes from the April 14 meeting. Public comment is invited.
- Vote to send revised Graduation Policy to Full Board
- Vote to send Equity Policy to Full Board
- Approval of April 14, 2021 meeting minutes
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Operations Committee is meeting virtually to discuss a proposal for school start and end times for the 2021-22 school year. The committee will also vote on approving the minutes from the March 4, 2021 meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for June 3rd.
- Discussion of School Start and End Times Proposal for SY 21-22
- Approval of March 4, 2021 Operations Committee minutes
- Meeting held virtually due to COVID-19 (LD 2167)
- Next meeting scheduled for June 3rd
BoardDocs - Archive
The Board is reviewing proposed revisions to discipline policies and the 2021-22 school calendar, including changes to start and end times. The meeting also includes discussions on summer school plans and a contract for Longfellow Elementary School.
- First read of discipline policy revisions
- First read of revisions to the 2021-22 school calendar and proposed school start/end times
- Action to approve contract with Blane Casey for Longfellow Elementary School
- Approval of teacher re-elections, continuing contracts, and administrator candidates
- Acknowledgement of donations including $2,000 for food pantries at Lyseth and Reiche
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to consider and vote on revisions to student discipline policies, including weapons, expulsion, suspension, and bullying. They will also discuss a framework for revising law enforcement policies. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and adjournment.
- Approval of March 23, 2021 Policy Committee minutes
- Action on revisions to discipline policies (JICIA, JKE-R, JKE, JK, JIC, JKD, JICK)
- Discussion of law enforcement policy revision framework
- Review of state-reported behavior incidents 2016-17 through 2019-20
BoardDocs - Archive
The Building Level Advisory Committees for Presumpscot, Reiche, and Longfellow elementary schools are meeting virtually to review agendas, approve prior minutes, and receive project updates. The Longfellow committee will also discuss bid results and possibly value engineering and alternates. These are routine advisory meetings, not final decision-making bodies.
- Presumpscot Elementary project update
- Reiche Elementary project update
- Longfellow Elementary bid results discussion
- Longfellow value engineering discussion (if needed)
- Longfellow alternates discussion (if needed)
BoardDocs - Archive
The District Advisory Building Committee (DABC) is meeting to advise the Portland Board of Public Education on the construction and renovation of Lyseth, Presumpscot, Reiche, and Longfellow elementary schools, as authorized by the 2017 voter referendum. The agenda includes updates on Longfellow, Presumpscot, and Reiche, plus approval of prior meeting minutes and a review of the meeting agenda. The committee's role is advisory; the Board holds final authority.
- Update on Longfellow elementary school construction
- Update on Presumpscot elementary school construction
- Update on Reiche elementary school construction
- Approval of minutes from February 18, 2021 DABC meeting
- Review of upcoming meeting schedule (DBAC, BLAC, community forums)
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Curriculum and Ed Planning Committee is meeting virtually to discuss updating the Graduation Policy and to workshop a curriculum change communication strategy. They will also approve minutes from the March 9, 2021 meeting. Public comment is invited.
- Review Graduation Policy (IKF) and next steps
- Workshop curriculum change communication strategy
- Approve minutes from March 9, 2021 meeting
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Board will hold a remote business meeting, primarily to consider adopting the FY22 budget of $125,154,700. The board will also approve minutes from the April 6 meeting, acknowledge a donation, and hear reports from the chair, students, and superintendent, including a reopening update.
- Adoption of FY22 budget in the amount of $125,154,700
- Approval of April 6, 2021 meeting minutes
- Acknowledgement of $600 donation from Derek, Cindy, and Siara Soule for kindergarten outdoor learning and 4th grade books
- Public comment on items not on the agenda
- Superintendent's reopening update
BoardDocs - Archive
The Finance and Personnel Committee met to recap and debrief the Joint Finance Committee Meeting. The agenda includes review of FY22 budget development materials and related financial reports.
- Recap/Debrief of Joint Finance Committee Meeting
- Review of FY22 budget development website and presentation
- Review of tax impact, debt service, and staffing reports
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Board of Public Education will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY22 budget of $125,815,760, followed by a business meeting with action items including approving the Portland Adult Education calendar, bidding renovations at Presumpscot Elementary School, and renewing principal contracts. The board will also enter executive session to discuss negotiations with BASE.
- Public hearing on FY22 budget of $125,815,760
- Action to approve Portland Adult Education 2021-22 calendar
- Action to approve bidding renovations at Presumpscot Elementary School
- Renewal of principal contracts for 2021-2022
- Executive session to discuss negotiations with BASE
BoardDocs - Archive
The Joint School and City Finance Committee met remotely to conduct a review of the Fiscal Year 2022 school budget. The meeting included presentations regarding the Superintendent's budget and investment summaries.
- FY22 School Budget Review
BoardDocs - Archive
The Finance and Personnel Committee is meeting remotely to discuss the FY22 budget and hear a public hearing on the Lau Plan. The meeting includes a budget discussion with supporting documents on investments, student ratios, and compensation data.
- Public Hearing on Lau Plan
- FY22 Budget Discussion
- FY2022 Superintendent's Budget Book
- Finance Committee Review of Budget Investments Summary
- MH/Bx Support-Student Ratios
BoardDocs - Archive
The Portland Public Schools Board will hold a business meeting and workshop, deciding on the Reiche Community School renovation bid authorization and whether to accept the Superintendent's FY21 budget for referral to the Finance Committee. They will also receive updates on school reopening and hear a first read on Presumpscot Elementary renovations. The meeting is virtual due to COVID-19, with public comment via Zoom.
- Action to approve bid for Reiche Community School renovations (Buildings for Our Future Referendum)
- Action to accept Superintendent's FY21 budget and refer to Finance Committee
- First read of request to bid Presumpscot Elementary renovations
- Acknowledge $250 donation from Mary Beth & Steven Nolt for Lyseth Civil Rights Team
- Approve minutes of March 2, 2021 meeting
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The Finance and Personnel Committee is meeting remotely to discuss the preliminary FY22 budget. The agenda includes a single business item on the budget, which is for information only, and a listing of upcoming meetings.
- Discussion of FY22 Preliminary Budget
- Remote meeting via webinar due to COVID-19 (LD 2167)
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The Portland Public Schools Curriculum and Ed Planning Committee is meeting virtually to provide feedback on and continue drafting the district's Equity Policy. The agenda includes approval of minutes from previous meetings and discussion of the policy draft, with public comment taken via Zoom.
- Discussion and feedback on Equity Policy
- Drafting and tuning of Equity Policy
- Approval of November 18, 2020 meeting minutes
- Approval of January 28, 2021 meeting minutes
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Superintendent Xavier Botana, the Board of Public Education, and the Public Affairs Committee are hosting a public webinar. The session focuses on FY 2022 budget priorities related to advancing equity, one of the district's strategic plan goals.
- Presentation on FY 2022 Budget Priorities by the Superintendent
- Public Q&A period regarding budget priorities
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The Portland Public Schools Operations Committee is meeting to approve the February 4, 2021 minutes and receive information on two business items: the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) backlog and proposed revisions to school start and end times. No votes are scheduled on the business items; they are for discussion only.
- Approval of February 4, 2021 Operations Committee minutes
- CIP Backlog - FY19-FY22 PPS CIP Action Plan (information item)
- Start and End Times Revisions - includes survey question and historical bell schedule documents (information item)
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The Portland Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to discuss school safety and discipline policies. They will debrief a community dialogue on school safety and review proposed updates to policies on weapons, violence, and student suspension. Public comment is invited.
- Debrief of School Safety Community Dialogue
- Review of JICIA Weapons, Violence and School Safety policy
- Review of JKD Suspension of Students policy
- Discussion of policies involving law enforcement (SROs)
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The Portland Public Schools Board will hold a remote business meeting on March 2, 2021, to consider several action items, including a resolution to prioritize school staff for COVID-19 vaccines, approval of renovation bids for Longfellow Elementary, and contracts for construction oversight. They will also review the FY22 capital improvement plan and hear a school reopening update. The meeting includes public comment and is conducted virtually due to COVID-19.
- Resolution requesting Governor Mills and CDC Director prioritize school personnel for COVID-19 vaccines
- Vote to authorize bidding for Longfellow Elementary renovations (Buildings for Our Future)
- Contract with CHA Consulting as Owner's Representative for renovations
- Contract with Sparhawk Group as Commissioning Agent for renovations
- Approve FY22 Capital Improvement Projects to submit to City Council
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The Building Level Advisory Committees (BLAC) for Presumpscot, Reiche, and Longfellow elementary schools are scheduled to hold meetings on February 25, 2021. The agenda consists of procedural reviews, including agenda materials, minutes approval, and project updates.
- Presumpscot Elementary School design and budget updates
- Reiche Elementary School project budget and commissioning discussion
- Longfellow Elementary School scope, planning board, and school board updates
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The Portland Public Schools Board will hold a business meeting and workshop, primarily focusing on updates on school reopening and the Lau Plan, which addresses English learner education. The board will also consider first reads of contracts and a bid for the Longfellow Elementary School renovation as part of the Buildings for Our Future referendum, along with the proposed FY22 Capital Improvement Projects. The meeting includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.
- First read of request to bid renovations at Longfellow Elementary School (Buildings for Our Future)
- First read of contract with CHA Consulting for owner's representative services
- First read of contract with Sparhawk Group for commissioning agent services
- First read of proposed FY22 Capital Improvement Projects to submit to City Council
- Update on school reopening, including proposed in-person instruction plans for grades 10-12
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The District Advisory Building Committee (DABC) is meeting to receive updates on the construction and renovation of Lyseth, Presumpscot, Reiche, and Longfellow elementary schools, as authorized by the November 2017 voter referendum. The agenda includes project updates, budget review, and next steps for the Longfellow bid. This is a working session with no final decisions; the Board of Public Education retains final authority.
- Lyseth, Presumpscot, Reiche, and Longfellow school project updates
- 3 School Project Budget review
- Commissioning discussion
- Longfellow bid next steps
- Approval of January 21, 2021 meeting minutes
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The Portland Public Schools Public Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss planning for the FY22 budget forum, receive an update on the new website development, and review previous years' public affairs vision and goals. The committee will also approve minutes from the November 10, 2020 meeting and introduce new members.
- Introduction of new committee members Yusuf Yusuf and Aura Russell-Bedder
- Approval of November 10, 2020 Public Affairs Committee meeting minutes
- Discussion on planning for FY22 Budget Forum
- Update on new website development
- Review of previous years' Public Affairs Vision/Goals
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The Portland Public Schools Finance and Personnel Committee is meeting virtually to discuss two information items: the Breathe Program and the preliminary FY22 budget. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only.
- Discussion of Breathe Program (information item)
- FY22 Preliminary Budget Discussion (information item)
- FY21 Breathe Memo and slides attached
- FY2022 Budget Calendar attached
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This is a training session for new Portland Public Schools board members, held via Zoom, with no public participation. The agenda includes presentations on academics, Portland Adult Ed, and finance, with attached PDF files.
- Training on district academics (FINAL 2021 PPS Presentation_Academic Update.pdf)
- Portland Adult Ed presentation (PAE School Board PPS Pres Feb 2021.pptx (2).pdf)
- Finance presentation (no attachment listed)
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The Portland Public Schools Operations Committee is meeting to approve minutes from November 2020 and receive updates on the CES solar consortium project, CIP backlog coordination, and the FY22 calendar and start times. The committee will also discuss its annual report and goal setting, a revised Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) proposal, and an IT department analysis. No final decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for information or action on minutes only.
- Approval of November 5, 2020 meeting minutes
- Update on CES Solar Consortium project
- Revised CIP Proposal (FY22) with attachments
- IT Department Analysis for Operations Committee
- FY22 calendar and start times (August 31 start)
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The Portland Public Schools Board is holding a remote business meeting with several action items, including approving minutes, a resolution condemning hate crimes targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, continuation of community partner programming, and personnel items. The board will also receive updates on school reopening and discuss pre-K expansion.
- Resolution condemning hate crimes targeting LGBTQ+ community members [A-34-20/21]
- Continuation of community partner programming through end of 2020-2021 school year using CRF funding [A-35-20/21]
- First read of 2021-2022 school year calendar (August 31 start)
- Approval of donations: $170 from Connie Gurney, $500 winter gear from Jody Halliday and Bill Kowalczyk, $1000 from Dr. Will Burrow for Ocean Avenue students
- Approval of personnel items (one year only) [A-36-20/21]
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This is a training session for new Portland Public Schools board members, held via Zoom. There will be no public participation. The agenda includes presentations from Human Resources and Communications and Multilingual departments.
- New School Board Member Training via Zoom
- Human Resources presentation
- Communications and Multilingual presentation
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The Building Level Advisory Committees for Reiche, Presumpscot, and Longfellow elementary schools are holding a joint Zoom webinar to review project updates. Each school's agenda includes approval of prior minutes, updates on the Green New Deal referendum and LEED certification, staggered bid schedules, owner's representative and clerk of the works reports, design updates, and prequalification of general contractors. The meetings are recurring and split by school with separate time slots.
- Green New Deal Referendum Question C Update and LEED Update
- Staggered Bid Schedule Update
- Owner's Rep/Clerk of the Works Update
- Design Updates
- GC Prequalification Update
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The Portland Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to discuss and gather information on two main items: a plan for engaging the public on law enforcement policies in schools, and a second review of student discipline and code of conduct policies. The committee will also discuss involvement with the Legislative Committee. No final votes are scheduled except to adjourn.
- Law Enforcement Policies Engagement Plan discussion, including SRO-related policies
- Second read of JK Student Discipline policy
- Second read of JIC System-Wide Student Code of Conduct
- Discussion of Legislative Committee involvement
- Approval of November 24, 2020 meeting minutes
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The Portland Public Schools Board will hold a remote business meeting with an executive session, followed by a workshop. The board will consider a resolution condemning hate crimes targeting LGBTQ families, approve policy revisions on agenda format and public participation, and discuss a resolution to skip the ACCESS for ELLs assessment this school year. It will also take up routine items like minutes, donations, and personnel.
- First read of resolution condemning hate crimes targeting LGBTQ community members
- First read to approve continuation of community partner programming through 2020-2021 school year
- Revisions to Policy BEDBA (agenda format) and BEDH (public participation) to move public comment earlier
- Resolution to support not administering ACCESS for ELLs assessment in 2020-2021
- Donations acknowledged: 537 face masks ($5,370) from Mexicali Blues, Inc., and custom desks ($1,000) from Allen Armstrong
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The Portland Public Schools Finance and Personnel Committee is meeting remotely to review the FY21 budget-to-actuals mid-year status, discuss food services revenue during COVID, receive an update on federal funding, and begin preliminary discussions for the FY22 budget. The Breathe program revenue discussion has been postponed to February.
- FY21 Budget to Actuals Mid-Year Update
- Discussion of Food Services revenue status during COVID
- Update on Federal Funding
- Preliminary FY22 Budget Discussion with working draft calendar
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The Portland Public Schools Board is holding a retreat via Zoom to participate in the fourth part of a 'Race in the US' course. There will be no public participation, and the meeting is for board members and the Superintendent's Cabinet only.
- Race in the US Course, Part Four
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The Operations Committee meeting scheduled for January 7, 2021, was cancelled. The agenda included approval of November 2020 minutes, a committee annual report, an update on the CES Solar Energy Consortium Project, and a CIP backlog coordination update, but no decisions were made.
- Meeting cancelled
- Approval of November 5, 2020 minutes (action item)
- Committee Annual Report and Goal Setting (information)
- Update on CES Solar Energy Consortium Project (information)
- Update on CIP Backlog Coordination (information)
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The Portland Public Schools Board will hold a virtual business meeting and workshop on January 5, 2021. They will consider a resolution to not administer the ACCESS for ELLs assessment this school year, and discuss revisions to Policy BEDBA to move public comment to the start of meetings. The board will also act on personnel items, a union contract update, and accept donations.
- First read of resolution to not administer ACCESS for ELLs assessment in 2020-21
- First read of revisions to Policy BEDBA to move public comment to beginning of meetings
- Ratification of PEA Contract Article 10.G update
- Approval of personnel items (probationary and one-year-only)
- Acceptance of donations including vehicles for PATHS Automotive program