Vote Medford 2005

Alfred Pompeo

Candidate for Medford School Committee

phone number: 781-393-1982

View the complete School Committee questionnaire.

Pompeo: Q1 - Why Medford Public Schools?

Medford has fine public schools offering a wide range of courses taught by certified, committed teachers.  Parents should check two publications:  "Educational Opportunities Handbook" and "Beyond Proficiency".  Also, visit the school of interest and talk with parents of students who attend the school.  Parents whose child may be eligible for  a special needs program should contact the Medford Special Education Advisory Council, attend a meeting, and request a copy of  "A Parents Guide to Special Education."  Parents deciding on private school placement should inquire if they are eligible for a private school voucher.  The president’s '06 budget includes a $50 million dollar increase in private school vouchers.    

Pompeo: Q2 - Adequate service for gifted and talented?

Medford’s high school offers many honors and advanced placement courses. Ask for a copy of headmaster Kreuger’s report of the class of ’05.  It is convincing testimony of the merit of this challenging program.  There are many after school programs that compliment those that serve the academically gifted.

Pompeo: Q3 - Computer-skills Curriculum

I would rate Medford's K-12 computer skills program, it's quality of equipment and teacher training on a scale of 1-10:  9.5.  All students K-8 are scheduled one hour/week for computer instruction on up to date equipment.  They have access to the internet, cable T.V. and video distribution systems.

At the high school level there are six electives in technology from Basic to Advanced, including Keyboarding, word processing, power point and web page design technology.  More than 50 workshops have been available for the professional development of teachers over the past four years.

Pompeo: Q4 - On MCAS

The MCAS tests in English, Math and Science are excellent diagnostic instruments, providing teachers, and parents with a blue print of a student's strength and weaknesses.  Students scoring in the warning  or needs improvement  range will receive additional instruction (including tutorial) to improve their level of performance.  The Medford School Committee supports the position of the Mass. Association of School Committees    that MCAS tests should not be the sole criterion of diploma eligibility.

Pompeo: Q5 - Comparisons with surrounding communities

Based on Department of Education reports, Medford's schools compare very well to those in neighboring communities.  Frankly, I feel that our schools are a "cut above".  I am not aware of specific initiatives in other schools - including charter schools that could serve as models for Medford schools.  Medford has several, including Tritec Collaborative with Malden and Everett, Family network, Teacher Licensure program.

Pompeo: Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

Religion has an important cultural role to play on our society-but not in our schools.

Pompeo: Q7 - Remaining in touch with school reality

I visit schools regularly.  I attend Fine Arts concerts, assemblies, Dare graduation ceremonies.   I am a Veteran's Day speaker.

Pompeo: Q8 - Energy Costs

Escalating energy costs will affect budget decisions.  Supt. Belson estimates a 30% increase in gas and utility bills.  Unless federal or state aid is forthcoming, the answer begins with "T".

Pompeo: Q9 - Attracting and retaining excellent teachers

Great City! Great Schools!  Parents who are great school supporters…friendly, supportive workplace…competitive salary schedule with promotional incentives and benefits (sick leave, health insurance).  Ask me-I taught for 26 years in the Medford Public Schools.  Oh yes, an outstanding school committee.