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The city council chambers were pretty full for a snowy evening in December as concerned citizens attended the last school committee meeting of the year.  The issue that brought people out tonight was the stymied process for finding a new superintendent of schools.  Several Stand for Children members spoke first, all urging that the job opening be posted immediately so as to take advantage of the school vacation break in order to attract the most qualified pool of applicants.  They also requested that parents, business leaders, educators and other representatives of our diverse community be given a voice in the selection process. They were supported by Victoria Fahlberg, Executive Director of OneLowell, and Anita Downs, chair of the Citywide Parent Council.  Connie Martin stated that, by not immediately posting the job description, “we are handicapping the school committee, the district and our future.” As Kevin McHugh put it, this is just Step 1 of the process, it’s not step 3 or 4.  It was Mr. McHugh’s last meeting and he spoke strongly about his “disappointment with the political maneuvering” (see previous post) that had delayed the process.  After some discussion, the motion by Connie Martin to immediately post the position was passed with only Regina Faticanti voting against.  

A timetable for the selection process was also approved.  The timetable calls for the search to close by February 1, and a new superintendent to be selected by April, which reaffirms the majority position that time is of the essence.  In early January (possibly at the January 9 school committee meeting), the committee will ‘deterimine the composition and role of a Blue Ribbon/Advisory committee. This provision will allow community input as the candidates are interviewed.   Parents with whom I spoke after the meeting were concerned with how this committee will be set up and how diverse it will be; however, at least the first step, that of advertising the provision, will have been taken.   

Dr. Karla Brooks Baehr, superintendent of the Lowell Public Schools, was named a finalist today for the position of Commissioner of Education. Long touted for her expertise in curriculum and high-quality instruction, Baehr is the only Massachusetts candidate named a finalist to the state’s top education post. Her leadership in Lowell resulted in record improvement in student test scores, among other measurable progress in the education of our children. For example, in comparing 2005 with 2007 MCAS scores, 29% more students scored proficient and advanced while 18% less failed. Despite these and other successes during her nearly eight-year tenure, the superintendent, who lives in Newton, also faced criticism from a vocal few regarding her availability at some community functions and hiring practices. Regarding the Board of Education’s search to replace former Commissioner Driscoll, who retired last summer, the board selected eight semifinalists two weeks ago from 16 in-state and national applicants. The board then chose three finalists from that pool, which includes Dr. Baehr, Ohio Senior Associate State Supt. Mitchell Dan Chester, and Wallace Foundation Education Director Richard Laine. The board will hold public interviews at the Omni Parker House on Jan. 7 and is expected to name the new commissioner by the end of the month. Meanwhile, the Lowell School Committee meets tonight to again discuss the process for beginning the search to replace Dr. Baehr. Due to a parliamentary maneuver by member Regina Faticanti at the last meeting two weeks ago, the search was delayed—most likely until the new committee officially meets on Jan. 9. More on that later.

My next stop on my Lowell shopping odyssey was Roger’s Pool and Toy (the link refers to the pool business only, but gives hours and directions) on Middle Street.  The smell of chlorine is reminiscent of summer pool days, but, this time of year, the shelves are well-stocked with toys, games and puzzles.  They have Brio, Playmobile, Legos ($19 and up) and more, and the experience is vastly more pleasant than at the generic toy madhouses.  Along with many of the classics, I spotted an excellent game for ages 8 and up, called Mastermind ($15.99) that pre-teens, teens and adults can all enjoy.  Moving along,  Life Alive, the Urban Oasis, is the place to buy a gift certificate for a health-conscious friend. If you haven’t tried their soups and tofu dishes, you don’t know what you’re missing. In addition, they have insipiring magnet quotes ($5) and an array of candles, organic skincare products and vitamins.  Next door is Van Gogh’s Gear, which is open Monday – Friday, 10-6, Saturday, 11-6 and Sunday, noon to 4.  Proprieter Steve Syverson stocks a myriad of supplies for the beginning or established artist.  I noticed a fine, 50 page sketch pad for under $10, with part of the proceeds going to the American Wildlife Fund, as well as some travel sketch books in varying sizes with nice leather covers for under $10.  The set of black sketching pencils ($8.96) and premium pastel pencils ($17.79) made me long to take an art class. You will also find quality color and paint-by-number sets, origami paper and Crayola products.  The Revolving Museum has fabulous “EVOLVE” t-shirts, black with striking red lettering, for $14.95, plus hats and totes, and assorted artist-made jewelry. Their current show is closing, but mark your calendar for their new exciting show, entitled “Toys and Games” which will be opening on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2008. Across the street, the New England Quilt Museum is currently featuring quilts about Lowell in an exhibition entitled “Lowell Inside Out,” which runs through through January 12.  In their gift shop, you will find kits to make tote bags ($39) plus a quilt kit, with everything needed to create a full sized quilt in one bag for $159.  They also have mugs and other memorabilia, scarves and purses, ornaments, stocking stuffers, and a few toys. I really liked the giant floor puzzle (ages 3-6) for $15.99.  By the way, this week is Cookie Week in their museum gift shop, with hot drinks and cookies for shoppers and museum-goers through Sunday.  By visiting the website, you can print a coupon for 10% off purchases. Next up, Merrimack Street… more »