Lincoln School Committee picks MCAS, defers fifth-grade section decision

LINCOLN -- June 12, 2014, Lincoln School Committee defers fifth-grade section vote, picks MCAS, honors 10 retirees. The committee on June 12 unanimously voted to stay with MCAS rather than pilot PARCC for 2014-2015, citing technology glitches in this year's field test, even as Superintendent Becky McFall noted "a majority of districts will choose to do PARCC." Members deferred a decision on fifth-grade enrollment, with 68 students projected for three sections averaging 22.67, above the recommended 22 but below the 24-student maximum at which the district could seek Finance Committee reserve funds. Parent Karen Prince and 92 other fourth-grade families petitioned for a fourth section, citing studies linking smaller classes to better outcomes. The committee also blessed Green Energy Technology Committee member John Snell's pursuit of a state grant of up to $500,000 for Reed Field House insulation and renewable energy work, with applications due July 15. Ten retirees were honored, including 35-year ESL teacher Rita Trotta and Assistant Superintendent Mary Sterling.