001I'd like to convene the regularly scheduled board of education meeting. Today is Monday, November 10th, and the time is 700 p.m. [snorts] I'd also like to quickly ask, are there any veterans in the attendance this evening? Any veterans in the crowd? Would you like to lead us in the pledge of allegiance, Mr. Vos, please? I aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you. Moving on to agenda item C, oath of office. I would like to call upon Miss Lisa Dalton to administer the oath to our newly elected and reelected board of education members. >> Okay, those newly elected and reelected, please stand. Would you all like to come in front and
002please raise your right hand? Do you solemnly swear that you will faithfully discharge according to law your duties as members to the Watertown Board of Education to the best of your abilities? So help you God. CONGRATULATIONS. [applause] CONGRATULATIONS. UH, new members, please come forth and take your seat at the seats at the board and welcome. Thank you very much for serving our town. If you want to get pictures, please. >> Welcome aboard. [clears throat] Thank you. Moving on. Miss Oaks, would you please do roll call? >> John Gavales >> here. >> Karen Hosking >> here. >> Christine Faressa >> here. >> Dream Bellica >> here. >> Jason Melaguti >> here. Cindy Failen here, Elizabeth Law >> here, Mindy Davidson >> here, Sher Martino >> here. >> Thank you. I would like to call for a
003motion to move agenda item J report from the board chair to immediately follow agenda item E. Do I have a motion? >> Yes, Mr. Chairman, I move to move to have agenda item J report from the board chair to immediately follow agenda item E. >> Thank you. Do I have a second? >> Second. Any discussion? All those in favor? >> I I >> opposed, abstensions. Motion passes. Thank you. Moving on to agenda item E, approval of minutes. I would like to call for a motion to approve the board of education minutes, which board members have had a chance to review for the special board meeting of education. Special board of education meeting October 23rd, 2025. in the board of education meeting October 27th, 2025. Do I have a motion? >> Yes, Mr. Chairman. I move
004to approve the minutes of both the special board of education meeting on October 23rd, 2025 and the regular board of education meeting on October 27th, 2025. >> Thank you. Do I have a second? >> I second. >> Any discussion? All those in favor? >> I >> opposed. Abstensions. >> Please note the abstensions. >> I abstain. >> Abstain for Mr. Mr. Gales, Miss Davidson, Miss Partino. Thank you. Okay, move on here to my uh >> I'm sorry. Okay, my board chair report. In an era of polarized politics, I look forward to the opportunity for new leadership, our new new leadership team that will be formed here this evening. A leadership team that models what principles leaderships like looks like. one that listens first, weighs evidence, and makes decisions grounded in data and the best interests of
005students. With this being said, I want to recognize that the Republican members of this board hold a majority position after last week's election. I accepted the chairman position with hopes that this dynamic would change, but accept that it did not. I very much understand that asking the majority party to relinquish the chair is a grand request. When Mr. Bellica reached out to me in the spirit of bipartisanship, I was grateful and receptive to him and the Republican party. I agree that moving forward in the spirit of bipartisanship is best for all parties. Should this board, as suggested to me by the Republican party, consider me for the vice chair, I would be honored to serve. Additionally, I am grateful to my party, the Democratic Party, for supporting me in my decision to move forward in
006this manner. I am also thankful for the support of our independent party board members. Should I be nominated and elected to serve as the vice chair this evening, I intend [snorts] to give my wholehearted support to Kareem Bellica for chair. My confidence is high that in the end, the red, blue, and green members sitting before you this evening will come together for the shared interests of Orange. Thank you. Moving on to agenda item F, student council report. [snorts] At John Tremble Primary School, teachers held parent conferences this week, giving families the opportunity to learn about their children's academic and behavioral progress. The school emphasizes its ongoing commitment to keep families informed about student growth throughout the years. John Tro Primary School is partnering with the Watertown Social Services to support families during the holiday season.
007A given tree has been set up with over 200 tags available for donation. At Pulk Elementary School, teachers will be participating in a coaching cycle with an instructional coach to strengthen collaboration, explore new teaching strategies, and build strong instructional communities. Parent teacher conferences. Conferences were well attended, showing strong family engagement. Teachers and parents discuss students progress and set goals for the second quarter, reinforcing the partnership between school and home to support student success. Veterans Day assembly. Students and staff honored local veterans from the VFW with a flag raising ceremony. The event focused on patriotism, gratitude, and respect for those who have served in the military. Upcoming events. Grade 5 will be going on a field trip to the winding trails where they'll participate in an outdoor activity focused on problem solving, communication, decision-m, trust, and
008team building. The experience will promote collaboration, success within diverse group settings. Justin Elementary School third graders are exploring poetry poetry through rhymes, rhyme schemes, stanzas, metaphors, simileies, and alliteration. To celebrate their creativity, they will host a poetry coffee house before Thanksgiving where each student will share an original poem with families. Grade four math and steam challenge. Fourth graders are studying factors and multiples through hands-on math activities and problem solving. They also completed a fun steam challenge with family members designing and testing cauldron holders to see how many marbles could hold each could hold. It was an engaging blend of engineering, creativity, and teamwork. Grade 5 CKLA unit. Fifth graders are concluding unit 2 of CKLA, exploring how ancient civilizations influenced the modern world through innovations, discoveries, and culture. Students strengthen the comprehension and writing skills
009while analyzing complex text and connecting historical ideas to today's world. The October 31st Stars Assembly recognized students who demonstrated respect through kindness, cooperation, and care for others. November's focus will be shift to self-control, encouraging students to make thoughtful choices and act responsibly. The fire prevention assembly. Fire marshall Kim led a fire prevention program teaching students in about fire safety, emergency preparedness, and strategies to stay safe at home and school. Fundr run campaign. The annual fund run fundraiser has began with a goal of raising $14,000 to purchase new playground equipment that promotes outdoor play and physical activity. The campaign has started with great enthusiasm and strong community support. Some upcoming events is on November 3rd, their food drive started. November 10th, they have their Veterans Day assembly, and November 14th, they have their Judson Jaguar fun
010run at 9:15 a.m. >> As for Swift Middle School highlights, Swift's girls soccer team won the NVL championships for their league. Under curriculum and instruction, teachers have been utilizing additional instruction time known as PLC to align teaching to students needs by analyzing data from assessments. School administration and teaching staff enga have engaged in a collaborative discussion on teacher learning goals to bolster student learning. In turn, English language arts and special education have received additional coaching to support the co-eing model. As for school community, on November 5th, combined faculty from Swift and neighboring schools played against the Harlem Wizards basketball team. Over 800 ticket holders arrived, generating $15,000 for students. The PTSDO did an excellent job organizing and running this event. As for upcoming events through November, on the 13th, there will be a National Junior
011High School induction at 6 p.m. On the 20th, Leo Club induction at 2:45 p.m. In December, on the 10th, there will be a Swift Chorus concert at 6:30 p.m. And on the 17th, there will be a band concert at 6:00 p.m. and a strings concert at 7:15 p.m. for Watertown High School under curriculum and instruction. Extension at WHS continues to serve students by allowing targeted learning periods for academic support and enrichment in independent subjects. Teachers like Miss Katerina Seir has have exemplified the development of extension. Seir has presented her classes with an interactive choice board which allows students to choose between various Spanishoriented activities involving documentaries, AI resources, and more. The new extension models focus on independent student engagement has led to enhanced success in the classroom. A new video series at WHS highlights these
012success stories and innovative uses of extension time. As aptly attributed, the system of enhanced independent unique learning is a Watertown High School staple. It is the Warrior Way. As the program of studies develops for the 2026 to 2027 school year, each department will be developing new ideas for courses to expand student learning opportunities. The goal of this is to upkeep a rigorous, relevant, and unique curriculum that represents Watertown High School for the school community. The Warriorway Way initiative at WHS continues to highlight students who exemplify respect, responsibility, and civil dedication as to as to promote a positive school culture. These core values have been integrated with classroom expectations and school projects. Students are able to engage with these values through schoolwide events pertaining to challenges around these merits. The challenges are provided through daily announcements
013and on WHS's social media platforms. The challenges encourage students to demonstrate acts of kindness, leadership, and accountability. In accordance with November's theme of gratitude and growth mindset, WHS has set up a thank bank where students can spread positive messages by writing down their encouraging advice and putting it on a poster board in the main hallway. On November 4th and November 6th, parent teacher conferences were [clears throat] held at WHS to allow parents and teachers to communicate about student progress over the first marking period. The Interact Club in tandem with the WHS teachers spirit committee raised $385 for the Susan G. Kman Foundation on Pink Day at WHS. On Thursday, October 23rd, 2025, 10 juniors and seniors were inducted into the Tri Music Honor Society through a complete ceremony. On Saturday, November [snorts] 8th, 2025, 15
014students will audition for the Northern Region Music Festival. For upcoming events, following events will occur from November 10th to November 25th. Thursday the 13th, principal student advisory committee meeting. On Thursday the 13th, once again the Truman Show, a fall play performance at 7 PM in the WHS auditorium. On Friday the 14th, the Truman Show, another fall play performance at 7 p.m. in the WHS auditorium. And the show proceeds again on Saturday the 15th with a matinea at 2 p.m. and a showing at 7:00 p.m. On Friday the 14th, marking period 1 report card grades are released. Tuesday the 18th, grade 8 open house from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. On Wednesday the 19th, PTO meeting at 6 PM in the WHS library. On Thursday the 20th, there is a school climate meeting. And on Friday the
01521st, the homecoming dance from 6:00 to 10 p.m. at the Bella Vista. [clears throat] As for upcoming athletic events, winter sports registration is officially open. >> Thank you very much, Hunter and Nicole. You guys read better than all of us do combined. Take on some of our roles here. Thank you. wonderful updates. Um, I had the privilege of attending the basketball event. It was a beautiful reminder of what I love about Watertown, the kids, the parents, the teachers playing against the Harlem Wizards. It was a tremendously successful event. Very uplifting for everybody there. Thank you to the PTO members who put that on. Uh, Miss Mion, Cindy was heavily involved with that. Uh, Amy Quinnon, all of you, thank you for your efforts there. Raising 15,000 is an incredible feat. So, thank you. Uh, before
016I forget, I'd also like to welcome Mr. Pleta, Mr. Bethl, all town council members uh in attendance to the meeting this evening. Thank you for joining us. Um moving on to agenda item G. Uh we had uh the honor of um inducting a few new members to the Watertown Wall of Honor with a recognition ceremony uh just prior to this meeting [snorts] which began at 5:30. So this evening, the Watertown Board of Education and Superintendent honored the 2025 Wall of Honor inductees. Mr. Ernest Pintoff, class of 1949, Dr. Dr. Claire Weedmire, class of 1956. Miss Anna Jed, class of 1973. Dr. Raphael Bueno, class of 1978. And Miss Pihi Nutari, class of 2001. Congratulations. Moving on to agenda item H, superintendence recommendations and report to you, Miss V. >> Yes. Thank you. Good evening, everybody.
017Um the recommendation and report section has some appointments and some transfers, some resignations. And then in the back of board members um minutes and packets is the extensive list of stipens that Miss Oaks had to type up for today's meeting. So they were all kind of posted today. Um so I have other updates to share in the next agenda item. >> Okay. Thank you. Moving on to agenda item I, superintendent updates. >> It's always so awkward these two go together. Um, so I'd like to take this opportunity myself to welcome new board members and um to say a big thanks to continuing board members. I um feel like Watertown is an extremely special place and I really look forward to us working together in a unified fashion um where we'll hopefully find our new collective
018voice together in the interest of our students. So um welcome to all and I'm really excited to work with all of you. Next update is just about superintendent outreach efforts um which were all a part of my entry plan. Um I continue to offer um open office hours to anyone that is interested in coming. Um I've had several teachers. I've had community members come. Um please continue to do so. I always would love to hear from people your thoughts, um your feelings, any ideas that you have. Uh you would just need to call and and book a time through u Ms. Oaks, my administrative assistant, and um I would love to to have you in. Um another piece um that I'll be adding is um which came from a teacher actually at Swift that recommended
019um that I do half-day open hours and station at each school. Um so Miss Oaks is in the process of putting those dates on my calendar. Um so I'll spend about a half a day in each school. I'll be able to make myself available for any teachers that want to stop in and talk or students. Um and then I'll be able to spend some time walking through classrooms and that will be in addition to my regular school visits. Um the third piece um that I wanted to mention tonight with respect to superintendent outreach um is when we move forward as a board and select committees for the um board of ed governance and community engagement committee. I had the thought of having a superintendent advisory committee. Um, and I would love to kind of partner
020with whoever the board member is that's in charge of of that committee. Um, and develop a think tank of folks, um, representatives from each of the schools, board members, town council, or community members that would like to join and and just kind of have an opportunity for people to come together and and talk about ideas, whether it be for budget plannings, initiatives, um, providing feedback. And we will be developing the strategic plan. So that will be another great opportunity for me to be able to collect feedback um in an organized fashion on that. Um so more information including details on membership and and meeting dates will be shared soon um and whoever ends up as the um person in charge of that committee on the board. I look forward to seeing if that's something you
021might be interested in exploring with me. Um moving on to just mentioning mentioning Veterans Day tomorrow. Um I wanted to mention that there are ceremonies taking place tomorrow. Tomorrow, there is a ceremony at 11:00 at uh Veterans Park as well as one at the Oakville Green. Um we have purchased wreaths on behalf of the board of education. Miss Feressa will be speaking at Veterans Park. Mr. Malagudi and I plan to attend the one at Oakville. Um any board members or community members, if you are in the area and you'd like to to stop and honor our veterans, those events will be taking place tomorrow at 11. Um I'd like to also mention I don't know Hunter, you had some of my thunder there. some of my events like you already you already shared and you
022did it so eloquently. Um, but I too just wanted to mention that the Truman Show play will be taking place and Hunter already eloquently provided all of the dates and times. Um, but we do have an amazing theater department. Um, and that um, particular performance will be directed by Kylie Pensacowski, former Poke student I might add. Um, in collaboration with Foster Ree and of course our own Mindy Davidson is the producer. Um, so if people are available, it might be a great thing to come and check out because we really do have some amazingly talented students. Um, tickets are available at parks and wreck or online and we put the flyer on our website. Um, next item is uh the care closets. I just wanted to mention um that we had an idea from uh
023Nicole Lewis who is one of our zoo uh SRBI coordinators at Swift Middle School to develop care closets at each of our schools which is a place where students that are in need of snacks or toiletries can kind of stop and just help themselves to some items. Um Ms. Gaelic, our director of operations and curriculum instruction along with our administrative team embrace the initiatives. We have had tons of donations come in and we're in the process of setting up those care closets. If people would like to donate items, you could either bring them to central office, drop them off at schools or the flyers on our website and there's a QR code you could order right from Amazon wish list and those items will get delivered right to the schools and any families or students
024in need um of any of those items, you just need to simply talk to a trusted adult and they will put you in touch with the care closet. Um so that is a wonderful effort on the part of our staff. um that is moving forward. Um and then I was also going to mention the Harlem Wizards. Wow, $15,000. Amazing event um from Swift. So, kudos to those folks. Um and that is it for my updates this evening. >> Thank you, Miss Becky. Moving on to agenda item K. She's here. >> Public participation. In accordance with policy 9050, participants must state their name and address for the record and limit comments to three minutes. The board encourages speakers to avoid defamatory remarks about personnel or individuals associated with the Watertown Public Schools. Would any members from
025the public like to speak Jeff Dearis, 294 Neil Drive. Uh good evening everyone. Uh this evening a brand new board of education is being sworn in for a new term and I congratulate the winners of the election and hope that the new term will be a successful one for Watertown schools. I think it is important to note also this evening new officers will be appointed to serve for the next two years. I believe that these two years will see unprecedented challenges to Watertown schools. From issues from funding from the federal and state governments to strains on the board of education budget to the potential discussion of a school closure to the continuing mandates from the state of Connecticut. These challenges require a steady and experienced hand to guide the ship's helm through these tumultuous storms.
026And I believe it's important to have involved in our leadership individuals like Jason Malgoodi and Karen Hosking. Jason is an experienced is experienced. He's nonpartisan. He is understanding and he is a leader. Karen has experience in the Watertown school system for many years and has been serving on this board for a number of years as well. They understand the challenges we face in our schools and they have the ability to confront them with a consensus style leadership that is critical at times like these. I believe I believe strongly that the board of education should be as a-political as possible. It should not be a springboard for political issues or ambitions. It is a place where our children, their education and their futures come first, foremost and exclusively. It is a place where commitment to doing
027what is in their interest is the paramount concern for all involved and that the leadership of this organization must reflect that. The people in this community care about this and they have a right to be heard and considered. We look forward to a collaborative board of education not beholdened to any political party. Just a note, I'm the chair of the Democratic party. So that's any party, Democratic, Republican, independent. The commitment to non-political decision-making, whether budgets or appointments, should be the loadar of this committee. [clears throat] I believe that Jason and Karen both exemplify this. Both of these excellent individuals embody the selfless drive of a true public servant, the experience in Watertown schools, and the leadership required for the moment. I ask that they be considered for leadership positions of this board. It would indicate
028the seriousness that this board takes in its responsibilities, its commitment to our children and schools, and its claim for non-politization. Please make the responsible choice. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any additional members from the public like to speak? >> [snorts] >> Good evening, Amy Quinnan, 159 Fernhill Road, Watertown. Actually, first want to start, we've talked a lot already about the Wizards game, and I do want to make sure that I acknowledge as the chairperson of the event, the tremendous village that it took to bring this event to Watertown, selling 800 tickets. So, I do want to publicly make sure that I thank not only the Swift principal and vice principal and staff, but also the principles and staff at Judson Pulk and JTPS, as well as Giani, AJ, Bernau, um, Luigi and his amazing custodial
029staff at Watertown High School, Keith Bowski, um, especially all the PTO's who were kind enough to not only share the information with their teams, um, but really helped us sell out that show and all the community members, parent volunteers, people that attended. We could not have done it without them. Um, I also believe in community and I loved having a community event that brought everyone together, but that also took a lot of help from community sponsors. So, I do want to call them out publicly because I think they should be known. We had Dave Orama at Regency Real Estate, Team Bartley at Comparian Insurance Agency, Showcase Realy, Rizza Chiropractic, Oakville Kitchen, Creative Blend Company, Martino's Pizza, and Marini and Mancini Dental Group. Like I said, it took a village to bring this event to Watertown.
030It was a huge success and we really could not have done it without them. So, I want to publicly thank every single person that participated. On a different and more serious note, I would like to congratulate the newly appointed board members being sworn in this evening. Your service is vital to our children's future, and we trust you'll act with integrity and in the best interest of our entire community. However, I am deeply troubled by reports that the Republican Town Committee has been holding private meetings with Republican board members, including some of you here tonight, to lobby for specific nominations for board chair and vice chair. Tonight's agenda includes voting on these leadership positions. And it seems some candidates are already starting off on the wrong foot by placing the interests of a political faction ahead
031of our children's needs. My primary concern isn't even the candidates themselves, but the process. Why is the board of education even engaging in these backroom discussions with the RTC? [clears throat] Board meetings should be transparent, open to all stakeholders, not swayed by partisan committees pulling strings behind closed doors. The RTC represents one political faction, not the diverse voices of parents, teachers, and taxpayers from across our community. If leadership decisions are being pre-cooked in private, it erodess public trust and raises questions about undue influence. Our bylaws and state guidelines emphasize impartiality and community representation. Does this align with those standards? To the RTC, if you think this behavior aligns with a commitment you made to the community to win back our trust with this election, you are mistaken. and shame on anyone else that took part
032in these backdoor conversations and didn't care to hear or respect the public's opinion on this matter. >> Uh Miss Quinn, just in the spirit of uh respecting the policy with the three minutes, could you give your closing >> comments? Thank you. >> I [snorts] urge you to pause, reflect, and prioritize nominees who reflect our shared values, experience in education, deep ties to our schools, and a commitment to transparency. Let's elect leaders who unite us, not divide us along party lines, and who are not swayed by political affiliation or aspirations. >> Thank you. Thank you, Miss W. Thank you. >> Any other members from the public like to come forth and speak? Hi, Alex Webster. Do I give my address, too? Sorry. Okay. uh 110 Eddie Street, Watertown. Um I just want to echo the comments
033made by Amy. Um I especially appreciate her calling out the way that partisan politics do creep in and are creeping in um into what should be a non-political space, focus on students, staff, and families. The board of board of ed's job is to serve the community, not a specific political committee and not personal agendas. Uh what's most troubling is the evidence that these conversations about board leadership have been happening behind closed doors and with political parties instead of openly in the public where they belong. These are decisions that affect the whole community and should be transparent, not preddecided in private meetings. The winners of this past election promise transparency and a commitment to rebuilding trust. So this is your moment to prove it. Um, the board of ed was elected to serve all of Watertown,
034not a handful um of insiders. And that's exactly why having a tripartisan board with a mix of perspectives and independent voices is so important. And just remembering that we're uh real leadership means putting kids in our community first. That's it. Thank you. >> Thank you. Anyone else from the public like to speak? Yes. Good evening, Rose Soilleski of 456 Davis Street. [clears throat] Um, I want to start by just thanking our previous board who under Christa Palumba's leadership reached multiple nonpartisan decisions for the benefit of the students and the school district and did it quite well. Um, I'm here tonight to also uh support Jason Malagot to become the new chairman. His steadfast nonpartisan dedication to the board of ed and the students has been strong and sincere during his tenure on the board. His
035experience is so important for this position to carry forth the great work accomplished to date that existed even with the previous board, the prior board I should say. Um, and no one group can take the credit for the work previously accomplished, though a few erroneously tried to during the election cycle. And Jason also has skin in the game as a father and gentleman with the integrity to meet the demands of the position. So, make the fair and equitable decision to vote for Jason as a chairman. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any other members from the public like to speak? Christopha 480 Echol Lake Road. Just want to first by saying John, it is so good to see you up there. Good to see you. When we talk about leadership on the board of education, we're
036not just talking about titles. We're talking about responsibility. >> [clears throat and snorts] >> The chair of the board of education sets the tone for how decisions are made. Decisions that affect every student, every teacher, and every taxpayer in our community. This position demands someone who already understands it deeply. Someone who has lived through the challenges our families face who knows what it means to navigate our schools as a parent. The chair must be able to balance competing priorities with both empathy and authority. Serving as a chair is not simply about running meetings or following an agenda. It's about leading our district through complex issues from policy and finance to negotiations, special education, safety, and curriculum. These are not areas for guesswork for on the or on the job training. The learning curve is steep,
037and our students success cannot hinge on someone chosen simply because they work well with others. Perspective matters. Having children in the district offers an irreplaceable understanding of what's happening day-to-day, the real challenges in the classroom, and the pressures our students face. I can't even begin to tell you how many times my daughters have brought important information to our attention. We need a chair who leads with wisdom, empathy, and a clear understanding of the system. Our students, teachers, and families deserve a leader, someone whose knowledge, experience, and personal investment in the community guide every decision. Let me be clear, there is nobody in this room besides me who can tell you what it truly takes to be chair of the board of education. It is not setting agendas. That's the smallest piece of the job. It's
038about being available. Taking the call from the mother on a Sunday morning whose daughter was told to kill herself at the lunch table and feels the school hasn't listened. It's about hearing from a student on a Tuesday who needs guidance when a meeting with their counselor didn't go as planned. It's about fielding calls from angry parents at dawn when school delays impact their jobs. It's about conducting expulsion hearings in the middle of the workday and staying up until 3:30 a.m. negotiating teacher contracts because our schools and staff matter that much. Leadership on the board of education must be grounded in real experience, not ambition. It must come from those who have earned the trust and respect of parents, educators, and the broader community through the years of involvement and proven commitment to public education. Because
039at the end of the day, this is not about politics or personal opportunity. It is about doing right by our children. And that responsibility is far too important to entrust to an experience. So I ask every parent in this room when you look up at the nine people sitting before you. If what you truly want is leadership that reaches across the aisle, makes informed decisions, and acts in the best interest of Watertown Public Schools, then the choice is clear. Jason and Karen have the Just uh one. Thank you. >> Jason and Karen have the knowledge, the experience, and the time to dedicate to both the position and to the parents we serve. Kareem, your enthusiasm is appreciated, but leadership is earned through service, not given through nomination. Start by gaining experience, earning the community's trust,
040and cont and maybe contribute as secretary. That's how I'm wrapping it up. That's how we have to move on out of respect both humility and time. Jason can serve as your mentor. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> You never >> please. Any other members from the public like to speak at this time? >> Thank you. >> Hello, Katherine Camera, 31 Cottage Place. I just want to say that for um cell phones on the dis um you know when we're first starting out here um it's really inappropriate and it really makes the audience feel that there's something else going on. So it would be appreciated if people wouldn't put them on the dis. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any other members from the public like to speak? >> Yes. Hello everyone. I wanted to begin by
041thanking each one of you for your service. >> Could you just state your name and address for the record, sir? >> Luigi Kavalo, 97 Joshua Town Road, Watertown Connect. >> Thank you. >> Um, so like to thank everyone for serving on this committee for our community. >> We may come from different backgrounds, beliefs, and political affiliation, but we share one powerful purpose to our community and to the students of this town. Our community is watching. Parents, teachers, and most importantly, students are counting on us to see and rise above decisions and lead with integrity, compassion, and vision. They do not need us to agree on everything. They need us to work together. Tonight we are facing decisions that touch on deep held beliefs about curriculum, about how to allocate funding, about how we keep our
042schools safe. These are not easy decisions, but they are necessary and they are an opportunity. the opportunity to show our students what respectful disagreement looks like. An opportunity to model [snorts] how adults can listen, learn, and lead together. An opportunity to put students, not politics, at the center of our work. When we talk about curriculum, let's ask, are we preparing students to think critically to understand the world and to succeed in it? When we talk about funding, let's ask, are we investing in what matters most, like teacher support, mental health resources, and equitable access to learning? When we talk about safety, let's ask, are we creating the environment where students feel not just protected, but truly seen and supported and heard. I'm not asking us to agree on everything. I'm asking us to agree on
043this that every child in this district deserves our best thinking, our best effort, and our best collaboration. Let's lead with empathy. Let's listen with humanity. And let's work together. Not because it's easy, but because our students are worth it. I want to leave us with this thought tonight. Our students don't need perfection from us. They need courage. They need collaboration. They need adults who can disagree with dignity and still move forward together. >> Mr. Kabalik, you uh begin what you're Thank you, sir. >> Um All right. Every vote cast, every word spoke, every policy we shape, it echoes in the lives of our children we serve. Let's make sure that echoes of hope and opportunity and united. Thank you. >> Thank you, sir. [applause] >> Would any other members of the public like to speak?
044Seeing none, we will move on to uh let's see here. Agenda item L, items of discussion. Specity. >> Y. So there's just one item for um discussion tonight. I prepared um some a proposal for some ideas for January. I put together dates for 2026 board of ed meetings. A proposal for some date possibilities. Um if if board members could please cross off the second one to the bottom. That was an error. There were there should not be three in November. Um, so I also included for board members just a a blank calendar so you can cross reference and go between the two. My thought is that board members can take this and kind of work through it and see if you spot something or if there's other points of discussion and then at our next
045meeting we can have continued conversation and then potentially adopt these dates. I also put a note at the top. Um I I'm not sure if people want to continue with the Mondays, continue with the 7:00 time. Um and then also take a look at the dates. So this is just really for your information and then hopefully at the next meeting we can have some conversation and then potentially adopt dates. Happy to answer any questions >> through the chair. Um May and June are first and third and not second and fourth. So are we switching for a reason or just >> Say that again, Mindy. I'm sorry. So, um, May 4th and May 18th are the 1st and 3rd Mondays where the 11th and the 25th would be the second and fourth. >> So, I didn't
046do it that way. And that's that's again something that we can probably talk about the next time. I didn't necessarily do the second and the fourth. I started the dates felt weird, I think, this year because of when Labor Day started. So, it started a pattern. Um, so I didn't do the second and the fourth. I kind of counted off two weeks. So if you start from the beginning and count on, you'll see if that makes any kind of sense. >> Yep. >> Um but certainly if board would like to entertain doing something like that where it's always the second and the fourth, we can certainly look at it that way. >> Thank you. >> Through the chair. >> I also tried to avoid certain holidays and that's why this pattern seemed to work out.
047Okay. Um but again open to suggestions. >> Miss Haskin >> just through the chair. >> I believe that we've been the second and the fourth because the town council is the >> first and third. first and the third. Okay. So to avail all residents to be at >> either or both um meetings instead of making a choice. >> I am happy to also rework them and bring a second draft or send it to board members ahead of the meeting to look at. >> Thank you. >> Any other discussion questions from board members? Thank you, Miss Becky. Moving on to agenda item M. future agenda items and board member comments. Do board members have anything they would like to say? >> Chair. >> Yes, Mr. President. >> I would like to take a moment and sincerely
048thank everyone that not only voted but also supported my own re-election. I'm truly honored. I would also like to take a moment to congratulate my fellow board of education members that campaigned for both election and re-election. It is noted that this election season was rife within civility, but we all stayed above the fray, and that is greatly appreciated. Coming together in unity is vital as we look to move forward with a new sense of purpose. While we may not always agree, it is how we come together as a group that matters. I look forward to continuing the work and I thank you all. Thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Fasa. Any other board members? >> Yes, Miss Hoskin. Go. Good evening. After re-election, I want to start this new chapter on the board with a
049huge thank you to the voters of Watertown, recognizing my desire to continue to serve our schools, our staff, and most importantly, our kids. I also want to thank all the candidates on the board side for keeping the campaign to issues, platforms, experience, and the direction that we would like to bring our district. And we must do that across party lines. Tonight marks that beginning. We began tonight celebrating the newest selections to the wall of honor. I hope we always remember those moments when our people and our schools shine. We may not see the impact that our schools have made in the lives of our children and their future in the moment, but years later those students impact our world in ways that are valued and life-changing. All experiences in life teach us something if we
050are open to learning. I know that we are in in the public scrutiny and held to a higher expectation as an elected official. May we go forward abiding by the ethics, standards, and attributes of a board member that we swore an oath to earlier this evening. These few are the ones important to me. Put children first. Believe in public schools. Treat all individuals with respect. Value and trust our partners, our leadership team, our fellow board of ed members, Watertown Public School staff, parents, and towns people. Swear by confidentiality, strive to lead with unity and collaboration. Represent all citizens of our town. Vote on what is best for our students. implement state and federal laws and mandates in order to not put our district at risk. And lastly, our role is to facilitate well-run schools through
051effective policies and procedures and the proper chain of command, even when it is frustrating and not what we personally believe or want. There are so many challenges we will face daily, weekly, monthly, and especially at budget time. If you are sitting here, you know that all of us sitting here have made a decision that impacts every aspect of our lives. We do so with our best intentions and a collective desire to support our schools, therefore our town. To do our best, we must openly communicate, work together, be respectful, and value each other. We need grace when we show up. Now, let's get to work. As Rosie the Riveter showed us all summer, standing in the center of our quaint and welcoming downtown, we can do it together. >> Thank you, Miss Hos. >> Uh, Miss
052Lton, >> um, I just as we approach the election of new officers tonight, I just wanted to make note of being mindful of the context that we're in as a community. We have a new board. We have a new superintendent. And we have a district that's facing challenges and rebuilding relationships. I do think it's crucial that we prioritize experience and continuity through these transitions. And I do strongly believe that leadership should be chosen based on what's best for our students, district, and the community and not just party lines. I've historically nominated individuals based on qualifications and leadership qualities. Previously nominated Mr. Malagudi and I even nominated Karen Hosking two years ago to serve as vice chair despite her opposing party. We have many at the table here tonight who um have strong leadership skills and
053goals that are aligned with the best interest of our district. Um as we come out on the other side of the elections shortly, whatever leadership we leave with, I am committed I will respect our leadership. I'm committed to continuing to work collaboratively and moving forward. But I do implore our leadership and other board members to continue to use all voices at the table. We have some phenomenal histories of um leadership, collaboration and service here and everybody's here for a reason and for what they bring to the table and I do hope that we all move to forward together. We are stronger with everybody participating. >> Thank you. Any other board members? Miss Fa. >> Yes. Um I just want to reiterate a couple of things that um Mr. Mr. Malagoodi had brought forth at the
054beginning. Um, now that this election season has ended, it is time for our community to look forward focusing on a path that leads us toward healing and stability. Our decision-making should be focused on putting Watertown on the right path to success. With this, there should be talks that involve the sharing of ideas across all parties since everyone has something important to contribute. We all share a common thing theme and we all want what is best for our town and the students of Watertown. In the beginning um Mr. Meligudi had s stated about a nomination of Kareem Bellica as chairperson for the board of education. I do want to put in some information that in the last budget season, Kareem did work, spending numerous hours at the state legislative office building, working behind the scenes to
055campaign for our Watertown students. Kareem was able to work with others, including members of other political parties to petition for further talks and additional funding for the unfunded mandates faced on us that each school system was tasked with. Kareem is not afraid to work with others and his connections with various polit state politicians are a benefit to this board in the town. Many of you may not know, but Kareem is also part of a committee with 11 other board of education representatives from other towns. Kareem's work on this committee and his interpersonal relationships with these other board members can assist us in sharing ideas that will lead us to improving how we want education in the town of Watertown to move forward. In continuing with also um on Jason's earlier comments, I also do see
056that there is a path forward regarding healing and shared decisions. I support the nomination of Jason Malagudi as vice chair of the board of education. Jason has been a constant presence in our school supporting our students and you will often see him on the sidelines cheering on the various teams. Jason has been involved in many contract negotiations and hearings and Jason has headed the policy committee for many years. Under this role, we have improved our policies, strengthening them to provide clear guidance for parents, students, and staff. Jason is thoughtful in his decisions and works well with other everyone. [snorts] He listens to all ideas and is willing to engage everyone to come to a resolution that all can support. I believe that Jason along with Kareem will create a steadfast team who will help us
057build this board moving forward in unified ideas. >> Thank you, Miss Failen. Board members, anyone else have anything they'd like to say? No. Okay. At this time, uh, moving on to agenda item N, election of officers. I'd like to call starting with the chairperson. Do I have a nomination for the new chairperson of the board of education? >> Yes, Mr. Chairman. Tonight, it is my honor and privilege to put forth the name of a man whom I have gotten to know and respect over the past two years as we serve together on this board. His dedication, ideas, and enthusiasm for improving Watertown Public Schools has been an inspiration for us all. His integrity is above reproach, as you will see as he serves. He makes decisions based on what is the right thing to do,
058regardless of the consequences. He will bring this board together as one for the betterment of our community. He will make himself available to anyone who wishes to offer advice, compliments for the board's action on some matter or constructive criticism that we may all improve. So without delay, Mr. Chairman, it is my distinct honor to place the name of Karem Blea before this board for consideration for the position of chairperson of the Watertown Board of Education. >> Thank you, Mr. Gavales. Do I have a second? I second that. >> Thank you, Miss Ferasa. Uh, are there any other nominations for the chair? Seeing none, any discussion? Okay. At this time, we'll call for a vote. All those in favor of Kareem Bellica for chairperson of the Watertown Bo board of education say I. >> I. >>
059Opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. Congratulations, Mr. Bella. look forward to working [applause] with EBC. [clears throat] Before we move on with the other nominations for vice chair and secretary, I have a few remarks I'd like to make. Uh, moving forward, [clears throat] I'd like to begin by sincerely thanking each of my fellow board members for entrusting me with the role of chair for the next two years. From the bottom of my heart, your confidence means the world, especially coming from the dedicated colleagues I'll have the privilege of working alongside. I'm truly humbled by this opportunity and energized by our shared vision. Together, we stand at the threshold of something special, a chance to build on our strong foundation, tackle pressing challenges with fresh ideas, and deliver meaningful, lasting progress for our students, our faculty, and
060the entire community we serve. I know this has been a very difficult time for Watertown. We've been through a lot as a community, but now is the time for us to come together, to heal. This what we do right here at the board of ed is bigger than every single one of us sitting here sitting up here. And while we may come from different backgrounds, the reasons why we serve are all too similar. We serve because we want to make a positive change. We serve because we want to bring new ideas. We serve because we want what's best for our school district. There will be times where we disagree. That's normal. We all have our own thoughts and opinions, but there are more times than not where we agree a whole lot more than we
061disagree because of the collective objective we've been tasked with. I am certain that what we are doing here tonight will be a great first step on the path to healing. As I mentioned a little earlier, I know there will be doubts and concerns. Though, what I need to put to rest here tonight is the notion that we won't work as a collective. As the chair, every single board member here will have a voice regardless of party affiliation. We sit here today because the community trusted trusted us enough to hand us the keys to the heart of what makes us so great. It is a duty that no member on this board should take lightly, and I know they won't. I look forward to serving with the other members of the leadership team who are elected
062tonight, people who I believe are deeply respected in our community and will work towards the collective goal I mentioned earlier. I'd like to finish by speaking more directly to those in the audience and to those watching at home. I will always be available to any member of the community who wishes to have a conversation with me. I'm committed to meeting you where you are, being out in the community, and hosting office hours for anyone to be able to come and meet with me directly. I'll even be here following a German to meet with anyone who would like to speak with me now. So, I hope there's some takers. I encourage people to continue to advocate for what they believe in, to continue to be involved. Our community is greater when people care about what's going
063on around our town. Oh, and one last thing. We have a damn good team here on the board of education, and I can't wait to get to work with everyone. Thank you. [applause] That out of the way. Do I have any nominations for vice chair of the board of education? >> Yes, Mr. Chair. I'd like to happily make a nomination for Mr. Malagudi. Um to echo some of Miss Balen's statements, Mr. Malagudi is the longest sitting board member here at the table. He served countless hours on our negotiation committees, um expulsion hearings, and he often volunteers, and you'll find him in the schools and on the sidelines. Jason brings invaluable experience to this board with his institutional knowledge, ability to navigate complex discussions, and long-standing commitment to collaboration. And he's been essential to the effectiveness
064of this board. I'd like to nominate him as vice chair. >> Thank you. Are there any seconds? >> I second it. >> All right. Are there any other nominations? Are there any other nominations? Are there any other nominations? Seeing none, all those in favor of Jason Malagudi as vice chair of the board of education, say I. >> I. >> Opposed abstensions. Motion passes. Would you like to make any? >> Uh, I'll keep them brief. I just I'm I'm very privileged and honored to serve our community no matter what capacity. I'm very grateful for the olive branch put forth here and uh we do have a great group of dynamic individuals. Each bring a a different skill set to the table. Uh you know you have Mr. Gval and I forgot to say earlier how happy
065I am to have you back at the table here with us sir. that has been like the the best blessing of all this. Great to have you back alongside uh Miss Feressa what she brings with her background. Miss Hosky and Kareem, it's always good to have the the the younger generation engaged especially in the politics and and getting involved in the community the way you are. So I thank you for stepping forward. Miss Failen, what you bring, Miss Lton, uh your skill set. I've sat next to you for many years over there and uh you always help me along with things there, too. Uh helping manage the Facebook page. Miss Davidson, we had the pleasure of working before. Miss Martino, I've known you for many years. Uh, and Miss Fecky, I can't say enough about
066her. We have the right girl. She's here to say she's got a vested stake in town. We know you care. I've been working alongside her, and you will quickly see just how dedicated she is to our town. So, thank you again for the opportunity to serve. Thank you. [applause] >> Moving on to Secretary. Do I have any nominations for Secretary of the Board of Education? >> Yes. Um, Mr. Chair, I'd like to make a motion to nominate Mindy Davidson as the new secretary for the Watertown Board of Education. Mindy's experience as the Minute Secretary on the board of ed for the past 13 years is absolutely priceless. And plus, her multiple years of leadership experience from Webster Bank, Watertown High School's PTO, Ways, as well as the producer for the award-winning Watertown High School Theater
067Group make her the ideal person to fill the seat as secretary. Please accept my enthusiastic endorsement and nomination for Minnie Davidson. >> Is there a second? >> I second. All right. Are there any other nominations? Are there any other nominations? Seeing none. >> Yeah. >> Oh, all those in favor. >> Okay. All those all those in favor say I. >> I. I. >> All those opposed. Abstensions. Motion's passed. No. [laughter] >> Okay. >> Mr. Chairman, >> could I make a brief remark? >> Is that Yeah. >> Go ahead. >> Okay. Uh I I just want to commend all of my fellow board members. We're looking at a 090909 vote for all these officers tonight. And uh I know perhaps a few days ago it didn't look like that. And uh you know a good friend
068of mine, a former chief once told me said, "John, you'd be surprised what you can settle over a cup of coffee." >> Boy, was he right. >> And I commend everybody. This is great. And I hope the public remembers tonight that we are united and we're united for the Watertown public schools and the kids and we'll go forward as a group. >> Thank you, JOHN. [applause] >> Moving on to item O, action items. I don't believe we have any action. We can take it off. Oh, we took it off. Oh, you're correct. So, we're going to move to item P, adjournment. Do I have a motion to adjurnn the meeting at 7:59? >> 7:58 p.m. >> Yes. Uh, Mr. Chair, I move to adjourn this board of education meeting at 7:58 p.m. >> Do I
069have a second? >> I second. >> Do I have any discussion? >> All those in favor? >> I opposed abstensions.