BOARD OF EDUCATION
Regular Meeting
September 11, 2007
|
MEMBERS PRESENT: |
Mrs. Bowles, Mr. Casey, Mr. DiLallo, Mrs. Grey, Mr. Huff, Mr. Mincher, |
|
MEMBERS ABSENT |
Mrs. Wiggins |
|
OTHERS PRESENT: |
Dr. Dutkowsky, Mrs. DeFeciani,
Mrs. Longhurst, |
The meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 7 p.m. by Mr. Casey.
Pledge of Allegiance
Mr. Casey led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Mr. Casey called for a moment of silence to commemorate 9/11 – Patriots’ Day.
Emergency Exits
Mr. Casey pointed out the emergency exits from the room.
Announcements
Mr. Casey announced that the first part of the meeting will be a Public Hearing for the Code of Conduct and the Board of Education may respond to concerns.
Public
Hearing – Code of Conduct
Dr. Robinson reported that this is actually the second hearing on the Code of Conduct. The previous hearing was held at the August 14 meeting which was at the District Office Conference Room. Since it was not the normal meeting location, it was decided to hold the hearing again to allow for more public input. The District is required to do an annual update according to the Commissioner’s regulations. The Code is intended to create an environment that is conducive to learning. It also has the expectation that adults must be models for our students in the learning environment. Many people have been involved in this process over the past eight months.
Mrs. Longhurst did a brief presentation of the Code and explained that the Preamble as well as several other sections are new. She noted that there are sections of the Code that also apply to parents, visitors, and staff. (A copy of her presentation is on file in the official minutes folder.)
Mr. Casey noted that this is a second reading this evening and the Board encourages questions on what people have heard or read previously and answers will be provided.
Many questions were raised by parents and students in attendance with most questions focused on modifications to the dress code section of the Code.
Dr. Robinson explained that some of the specific situations are not necessarily prescribed in the Code. The dress code speaks to the provision of a school environment that is conducive to learning. The Code is not intended to stifle school spirit and enthusiasm. Individual concerns regarding dress need to be discussed with the administration of each building.
Mr. Casey asked Mr. Flynt, High School Principal, if he can work with the Code and has he worked with similar Codes in the past. Mr. Flynt replied that it is a very good document and can be implemented very easily by using common sense. He also noted he is working through his staff for the implementation.
Dr. Robinson reiterated protocols are established with safety in mind, to keep track of the students, and to keep the environment safe. Some of these issues need to be worked out with more dialogue between parents and administrators.
Mr. Casey said that he appreciated all of the comments made this evening and noted that there are updates to the Code that will be made available to students and parents. The Board of Education is trying to set a standard and determine where the lines should be drawn.
A parent explained that kids are looking at many of the items written in the Code as a punishment rather than a learning experience. Parents should be notified when their child is being corrected and the process should be used as a learning experience rather than as a punishment. Dr. Robinson explained that there are multiple options on each level – it’s not an all or nothing scenario. We want to modify behavior in the least restrictive way as possible. Our responsibility is to make sure that students who walk through Shenendehowa’s doors are in a learning environment. Students have a right to a quality education but they also have responsibilities.
A student commented that what they are looking for is a clearer definition as to what is appropriate in the area of clothing. Who do we turn to if there is a difference of opinion? Dr. Robinson responded that we have to be clearer as to what the standards and expectations are in order to deal with different opinions. We hope the Code of Conduct will guide people to come to a reasonable expectation. We need to protect the interests of all students involved. Our purpose is to listen to comments so we can review the document again.
A question was asked as to what the process was to create the Code and what is the next step. Dr. Robinson responded that after this hearing, the Board will deliberate. This is the second reading. If things need to be modified, we will do so. We have a Policy Committee, we have had feedback from students, faculty members, and administrators.
He noted that the Code has been in force for a number of years. By regulation there has to be an annual update. The intent of the addition of the Preamble is to explain that the Code of Conduct is a guideline.
Mr. Casey noted that we try to have equity at all levels. More detail needs to be developed. We have some work to do from the Board’s side as well as administrators as to definitions.
Dr. Robinson appreciated hearing all of the concerns and that the District has the responsibility for the welfare of approximately 3,000 students at the High School level. He encouraged students to talk to administrators and approach the Student Senate with concerns. We have a school environment that is conducive to learning.
Mr. Casey continued by saying we need a standard because people in the past have said they didn’t know what the standard was. We believe it is necessary to have these standards spelled out as clearly as we can. The implementation is at the building level. It is our responsibility to get these expectations out to the community. This is not an “out of control” district. This is a wonderful district. It’s clear from the comments we’ve heard tonight that we have more work to do.
Ms. Donna Lynch, Social Studies Teacher (Grades 9-12), explained how this process impacts the students. Members of her class were present this evening to express their positions. They came to try to make the situation better and provide input.
Mr. Casey followed up by saying the Board is voting on the Code of Conduct Policy tonight, not the detailed Code itself. The policy sets the guidelines for what the protocols, procedures, and expectations will be. The Board will act on the Code document at the October 9 Board meeting..
The Public Hearing ended at 8:15 p.m.
1. ADOPT AGENDA
Mr. Huff suggested that Action Item 7.d.1. be moved to the beginning of the agenda as people in attendance are interested in the outcome of this item.
MOTION BY Mr. Huff, seconded by Mr. DiLallo, to accept this evening’s agenda with Action Item 7.d.1. being moved to the beginning of the agenda
Unanimously approved, motion carried.
7. Action Item
d. Policy
Governance
1. Second
Reading – Policy 3410, repeal of 5310, 3410-A
Dr. Robinson explained that the second
reading is actually for the Policy which is broader based than the Code
document (3410-A). The policy itself is
what authorizes the detailed prescriptions of
the Code of Conduct. The Board is asked
to vote on the policy, taking into consideration the comments made tonight.
Mrs. Grey commented that it was terrific that
the students came out and expressed themselves.
They did it civilly and they need to know the process. When the Board makes a motion to adopt a policy,
the policy is very general and what was discussed tonight is not what the
policy says. The policy essentially
states that the Board will adopt a Code of Conduct that is administered by the
administration. The policy does not give
specific language as discussed this evening.
Mr. Casey asked the Board if it will consider
moving to adopt the proposed policy and direct the administration to go back
and seek further clarification on the Code document that was discussed tonight.
Mrs. Bowles had a technical question
concerning the relationship between Policy 3410 and 3410-A in relation to Mr.
Casey’s suggestion on further review of the Code. Policy 3410 requires that the Board adopt a
policy which is the Code under discussion in 3410-A. She sought to clarify that 3410-A is a policy
also, not a regulation that can be changed without Board action.
Mrs. Grey commented on the differences
between policies and regulations. Mrs.
Bowles clarified further that her question related to the process for adoption
of the detailed Code in 3410-A is the same as that for any other Board
policy. Dr. Robinson explained that the
two policies are connected. We will
proceed with the second reading and action on the general policy 3410 only
tonight and look to take action on Policy 3410-A at a later date.
Mrs. Grey noted that we need to make sure
that the use of 3410-A is applied consistently.
We need to ensure that these conversations take place and key
stakeholders are involved.
MOTION BY Mrs. Grey, seconded by Mr. DiLallo,
that the Board of Education approve Policy 3410 and the repeal of 5310.
Unanimously approved, motion carried.
Comments regarding 3410-A:
Mr. Huff noted that one of our concerns has
been the consistency application. We
need to keep in mind that our primary goal is instruction.
Mr. DiLallo sees the document as a good
document that has been worked out very carefully. He thinks the problem is in
implementation. We need to communicate
to the teachers and staff what the expectations are. We need to
overcome the negative expectations that cause
concern in students and parents.
Mrs. Bowles agreed with Mr. DiLallo that the
document is very good and covers what we need for the safety of our students
and the environment we strive for. She
would like to see communication regarding the intent of the document and be
certain all involved have a chance to contribute.
Mrs. Grey noted that, in her opinion, she
would approve almost all of it (3410-A).
We should review the dress code policy.
The rest of the information is exactly what we’ve been looking to have
for a long time. When we discipline, it
should be more of a learning opportunity.
The students did a great job expressing their concerns. Some of the restrictions at the beginning of
the year have been different from what they have experienced in the past and
they related that to the Code of Conduct.
Mrs. Grey has faith in Mr. Flynt to move forward with these issues.
Mr. Mincher was impressed with the energy
tonight. There is so much pressure on
the student to conform but we must draw the line when safety is involved. We need to make sure that we are protecting
everyone. Policy 3410 allows that
individual statement but states when the boundary should be set by
administration.
Mr. Casey noted that September 21 is the next
meeting of the Policy Committee and the Committee will continue to work on
this.
2. BOARD OF
EDUCATION COMMENTS/REPORT
Mr. DiLallo reported on an issue with NYSSBA concerning costs and timelines for school construction which has been ongoing for the past year. A taskforce will be brought together to discuss costs of school construction and the timeline required to develop a plan prior to construction. A resolution will be going before NYSSBA in October regarding this issue. Mr. David Little from NYSSBA is pulling the taskforce together in the hopes of having it be active in October. So far, Mr. DiLallo has spoken with Mr. Martin Weber of DCLW, Mr. August Freemann – Construction Coordinator for Shenendehowa, Ms. Sharon DeBonis – Attorney for Shenendehowa, and Mr. Christopher Bast from Bast Hatfield, Inc. to serve on the taskforce. Additional specialists and SED personnel have agreed to participate.
Mr. Huff noted that with the opening of school, he is concerned about the cost of school supplies. He asked if school supplies could become part of the school budget. Of particular concern to Mr. Huff were graphing calculators which are rather costly. We pride ourselves in going beyond in many areas and we should explore the area of supplies for our students. Mr. Huff handed out copies of the December 1, 2006, State Ed memo on" Charging for Calculators" and the December 11, 2006, On Board article on "Districts Must Foot Bill for Graphic Calculators."
Mr. Casey added that the Superintendent and he both agree concerning school supplies. Mr. Casey also commented on opening day by saying people were respectful, ready, and happy to be there. The Shen Wall of Fame is a wonderful community effort and had a great impact on teachers and coaches. We can be proud. This was a great week to open school.
Mr. Casey announced that Shivanthi Narendran and Patrick Maguire will be the new Student Senate representatives for this year.
3. PUBLIC COMMENT
A parent asked for feedback from the Board regarding the cost of
calculators. He noted that since
December 1, 2006, the District was to provide calculators. The SED document stated the District is
required to provide calculators and that the child would be allowed to take it
home.
Mr. Casey noted that the Board will provide additional clarification on
this situation.
Ms. Jill Bush, Gowana Middle School Principal, thanked the Board for the
classrooms and additions to the Middle School.
She noted that the Middle School had a wonderful opening day.
A parent asked if hallways were being locked in the High School when
class is in session. Who has the keys in
case of a fire? Mr. Casey responded that
Mr. Flynt could probably answer her question.
Mr. Casey noted that Board Liaisons will be finalized by the end of the
week.
4. SUPERINTENDENT
REPORT
Dr. Robinson asked the Board to review the Board Calendar to see if any
changes are necessary. He noted that a
certain timeframe needs to be followed for some items.
Dr. Robinson agreed that we did have a wonderful opening day and it was
very positive. He noted that the Board
and administration is taking into consideration the items the students
presented this evening. We do have a
great school district and we are working with the SED regulations regarding
calculators. It’s a budget issue that
will be discussed in great detail.
5. INFORMATION
ITEMS
Mrs. Longhurst noted that she had the opportunity to speak with Barbara
Salecker and several of the students who participated in the Public Hearing
regarding the Code of Conduct this evening.
She hopes the dialogue will continue.
a. Policy Governance
1) First Reading – Policies 7131, 7150, 7160,
7410, 7580, 8100, 8102, 8105, 8105A, 8110, 8130, 8230, 8241, 8250, 8270, 8271,
8310, 8450, 8460, 8461, 8462 (See attached table for detailed policy
information.)
Mr. DiLallo requested wording changes/modifications be made in Policies
8105, 8230, 8241, and 8271.
Mr. Huff had concerns with Policy 8460.
He suggested it needs to convey that
not every situation will be reimbursed.
Also, with the inclusion of Policies 8100, 8201, and 8105, should other
policy numbers be repealed?
Mrs. Longhurst will look into the changes/revisions requested.
b. Business Affairs
1) Claims Auditor Report
The July and an updated August Claims Auditor Report was provided to the
Board of Education.
6. CONSENT ITEMS
a. Treasurer’s Reports
MOTION BY Mrs. Bowles, seconded by Mr. DiLallo, to approve the
Treasurer’s Report for the month of July 2007.
Unanimously approved, motion carried.
b. Minutes
1)
August 14, 2007
2)
August 28, 2007
Mr. Huff noted that the third paragraph under Item 2 on page 1 of the
August 14, 2007, Board of Education meeting should be corrected to read as
follows:
Mr.
Huff also noted that the District will be providing most of the necessary
funding needed to administer mandatory testing required as part of No Child
Left Behind (NCLB). The Federal
Government should fully pay for implementation of these tests rather than pass
the cost off to the local taxpayers.
MOTION BY Mrs. Bowles, seconded by Mr. DiLallo, to approve the August 14
and August 28, 2007, minutes be approved with the corrections noted above.
Unanimously approved, motion carried.
7. ACTION ITEMS
a. Students
1) Special Education Placements
MOTION BY Mrs. Grey, seconded by Mr. Huff, that the Board of Education
accept the attached placements and services for the 2007-2008 school year based
upon the recommendation of the District Committee on Special Education, the
Committee on Special Education Subcommittee, and the Committee on Preschool
Special Education (a copy of this document is on file in the official minutes
folder).
Unanimously approved, motion carried.
b. Personnel
Dr. Dutkowsky noted a correction to Page 3, 2) f. Monique Staucet should read: From:
6 ½ hrs./day; 10 mos./yr. To: 6 ¼ hrs./day; 10 mos./yr.
Mr. Casey commented that he is pleased with the appointment of Barbara
Salecker as SAVE and Emergency Management Coordinator.
MOTION BY Mr. Huff, seconded by Mr. DiLallo, to accept the staffing
report as presented by Dr. Dutkowsky.
A. RESIGNATIONS
1) Certified
Staff
a. Name: Deborah Shea
Position: Director of Curriculum
& Standards K-12
Commencing: September 18, 2007 (end of day)
2) Classified
Staff
a. Name: Pompeo Ferracane
Position: Cleaner
Commencing: August 28, 2007 (end of day)
b. Name: Norma Seguin
Position: Food Service Helper
(part-time)
Commencing: July 23, 2007 (end of day)
B. MODIFICATION
OF RETIREMENT
1) Classified
Staff
a. Name: Michele Fannucci
From
Position: Teacher Aide
(Special Education)
To Position: School Monitor (Elementary
Classroom)
Commencing: December 31, 2007 (end of day)
C. LEAVE
OF ABSENCE
1) Certified
Staff
a. Name: Lisa Harvey
Tenure
Area: Elementary Education
Reason: FMLA
Commencing: 10/25/07 – 11/28/07
b. Name: Jan Reilly
Tenure
Area: School Counselor
Reason: Unpaid Child Rearing
Commencing: 10/22/07 – 01/18/08
c. Name: Meghan Sprissler
Tenure
Area: Elementary Education
Reason: FMLA
Commencing: 05/18/07 – 10/26/07
d. Name: Jennifer Zalucky
Tenure
Area: Special Education
Reason: FMLA
Commencing: 04/16/07 – 09/21/07
e. Name: Jennifer Zalucky
Tenure
Area: Special Education
Reason: Unpaid Child Rearing
Commencing: 09/24/07 – 09/28/07
D. ABOLISHMENT
OF POSITION
1) Certified Staff
a. Position: Student
Services Coordinator – Student
Placement
No.
of Positions: 1.0 FTE
Commencing: August 31, 2007 (end of day)
E. CREATION
OF POSITION
1) Certified Staff
a. Position: Academic
Administrator for Special Education,
Grades K-5
No.
of Positions: 1.0 FTE
Commencing: September 1, 2007
F. CHANGE
IN EMPLOYMENT
1) Certified Staff
a. Name: Debra Brown
From: 1.0 FTE Family and
Consumer Sciences
To: 1.2 FTE Family
and Consumer Sciences
Status: Term
Commencing: 09/01/07 – 06/30/08
Salary: $73,186 (Step 21)*
b. Name: Colleen Coletta
From: 0.2 FTE Health
Education
To: 1.0 FTE Health
Education
Status: 2 year probationary
Commencing: September 1, 2007
Salary: $43,555 (Step 4)*
c. Name: Kelly Ledwith
From: 0.4 FTE Physical
Education
To: 0.5 FTE Physical
Education
Status: Term
Commencing: 09/01/07 – 06/30/08
Salary: $39,743 (Step 1)*
pro-rated
d. Name: Meredith McKee
Tenure
Area: 1.0 FTE Elementary
Status: 3
year probationary
Commencing: September 1, 2007
From: $40,975 (Step 2)*
To: $42,245 (Step
3)*
2) Classified Staff
a. Name: Jennifer Chludzinski
Position: Teacher Aide (Special
Education)
From: 3 hrs./day; 10
mos./yr.
To: 6 hrs./day; 10
mos./yr.
Commencing: September 1, 2007
Salary: $16.99/hr. (Special
Education Aide Schedule,
Step 5)
b. Name: Sharon Montgomery
Position: Teacher Aide (Special
Education)
From: 6 ¾ hrs./day; 10
mos./yr.
To: 6 ½ hrs./day; 10
mos./yr.
Commencing: September 1, 2007
Salary: $16.99/hr. (Special
Education Aide Schedule,
Step 5)
c. Name: Kimberly Perry
Position: Teacher Aide (Special
Education)
From: 7 hrs./day; 10 mos./yr.
To: 6 ½ hrs./day; 10
mos./yr.
Commencing: September 1, 2007
Salary: $16.43/hr. (Special
Education Aide Schedule,
Step 4)
d. Name: Grace Post
Position: Teacher Aide (Special
Education)
From: 6 hrs./day; 10
mos./yr.
To: 6 ¼ hrs./day; 10
mos./yr.
Commencing: September 1, 2007
Salary: $16.99/hr. (Special
Education Aide Schedule,
Step 5)
e. Name: Kathleen Slagen
Position: Teacher Aide (Special
Education)
From: 6 ¾ hrs./day; 10 mos./yr.