Reading, MA — After the School Committee officially recognized the champion Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) Boys’ Cross Country team, RMHS Principal Jessica Callanan shared her work regarding the three-pronged approach to professional development at RMHS. She explained that department heads are leading department-specific tracks, that there is also targeted external learning and that cross-curricular learning is being led by teacher-leaders in the building.
Callanan outlined some of the learning tracks available during the 2023-2024 school year, including small group learning walks, grading for equity, and literacy strategies. In 2024-2025, tracks include trauma-informed practices and exploring artificial intelligence. Superintendent of Schools Thomas Milaschewski pointed out that tracks are chosen based on teacher and student needs and interests and that the curriculum is based on scientifically-backed literature on the various topics.
“We’re asking our students to be creative and innovative and to push the boundaries. I also need to ask my teachers to do that and continue to be re-energized about their jobs,” Callanan observed.
Callanan reported that almost 75% of teachers surveyed liked their professional development track, and an additional 30% liked the format but may switch tracks in the coming year. School Committee member Erin Gaffen questioned about the Modern Classroom track, specifically what occurs when activities do not seem to work for some students. Gaffen noted that several parents have questioned her about the issue.
Callanan shared that many of the concepts of Modern Classroom, which she described as “student central classrooms,” have been used for a long time, and some people seem misinformed about what Modern Classroom encompasses. She continued to explain that teachers are being coached formally and informally when issues arise. “If a person is willing to be coached up, we continue to do that . . it is very evident if something is not working,” Callanan stated. She also encouraged parents to reach out to teachers if their students face classroom challenges.
School Committee member Carla Nazzaro shared that she is pleased with the involvement of the department heads in professional development. “You took our thought of making department heads more involved, and you blossomed it,” Nazzaro exclaimed.
The discussion concluded with chair Thomas Wise commending the efforts of Callanan and her team and reminding the committee that judgements on systems need to wait until evaluative data is available and can be interpreted so adjustments can be made.
After Interim Director of Finance and Operations Phillip Littlehale provided a brief first-quarter financial update for Fiscal Year 2025, committee members gave Milaschewski some feedback regarding budget priorities for FY 2026.
Wise started the discussion, noting the likelihood of a level-service budget for FY 2026. Member Sarah McLaughlin shared thoughts on developing gap-closing programs modeled after programs funded by the METCO grant. She also encouraged continued evaluations of the special education program and instruction for those with executive functioning difficulties. She pointed to the future as well, encouraging discussion regarding busing and climate control in the school buildings. Gaffen pointed out the positive impact of the added math coaches this year and encouraged future efforts toward English and Language Arts coaches. Member Shawn Brandt clarified that the final movement to full-day kindergarten was a critical priority while asking for additional support for students facing behavioral issues. Wise encouraged discussions regarding planning for half-day Fridays, and Nazzaro would like to see instruments and languages at the lower levels.
The School Committee will continue reviewing the FY 2026 budget in January, and the meeting was adjourned to executive session at 8:50 p.m.
