EAST GREENBUSH CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Board of Education Meeting Goff School Wednesday, October 26, 2011 MINUTES 1.
Call to Order – Dr. Harrison – 7:32 p.m.
MEETING BEGINS
2.
Attendance
ATTENDANCE
Ms. Blostein Ms. Curran Ms. Curtin Ms. Dobert Burke Ms. Garrigan-Piela Dr. Harrison Ms. Maciol Mr. Mann Ms. Taylor Also Attending Dr. Nagle Ms. Bowman Mr. Edson Mr. Lyons
Present Absent x x x x x x x (arrived at 7:33 p.m.) x x
x x x x
Student Council Representatives A.J. Maney Maddie Bove 3.
x x
Ex Officio Student Council Comments None at this time.
EX OFFICIO COMMENTS
Goff Presentation The 8th Grade Select Choir, under the direction of Ms. Badger, performed Bye, Bye Blackbird. The following students participated: Autumn Bill Soren Correia Lydia Clemente Erin Condo Andrew Dalton Justin Dessureau Stephenie Gonyea Lindsay Heck Caitlin McHugh Tyler Schroeder Rachel Steele Hannah Tremblay
GOFF PRESENTATION
The Student Council, under the direction of Ms. Cassidy and Ms. Casullo, gave a presentation on activities, leadership, and support in the community. The following students presented: Jailah Antonetti, Zach Myron, Devin Neal, and Emma Letzelter. The students shared how long they have been involved in Student Council and how much
fun and learning occur in the activities. Over 90 active members are involved in Student Council events, including community fund-raisers, 6th grade orientation, and volunteerism. Some of the past community events have been for the benefit of Concerns U, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Juvenile Diabetes, and the family of Laura Casellini. Student Council officers shared their thoughts on what it means to be a leader, including acting as a role model, guiding others toward a common goal, accepting responsibilities, helping the student body, learning life lessons, setting an example, stepping up to help others, and taking charge. The advisors shared information on the fund-raising activities of the Student Council. Approximately $3,200 was raised for the family of Laura Casellini in order to defray costs of making a home accessible for individuals with disabilities. They said that the students were the main drivers of the benefit concert, even though the student had long ago graduated from Goff. The Student Council officers reflected on fund-raising activities for Concerns U, MDA, Laura Casellini, and Kathleen’s crew in order to make an impact, touch people’s lives, assist those undergoing natural tragedy, and creating a better daily life and future. Mr. Sloane said the eighth grade leaders will work with local businesses as they plan their graduation dance and continue to assist local families and organizations. The 8th Grade Brass Quintet, under the direction of Mr. Bresnahan, performed Kelligrew’s Soiree a Newfoundland Jig. The following students participated: Joey Walzer Soren Correia Michael Ruth Kevin Phoenix Billy Lindemann Mr. Sloane announced it was Board Appreciation Night. He shared a PowerPoint presentation on the importance of volunteerism in the community. The principal spoke about going beyond selfinterest and giving back good fortune to the community. He said the Board members make it all possible. Serving as a Board member can be challenging to stand up for what is right, handle conflict, and honor other’s personal beliefs. Mr. Sloane thanked the Board for sharing their time, morals, values, ethics, skills, talents, money, and life experiences with the school community. The principal said that their work is all for the betterment of students, and they can be designated as quintessential volunteers at East Greenbush Schools.
Mr. Sloane presented an overview of the enrollment, staffing, and programs at Goff Middle School. He spoke about student assessment performance and meeting the performance index objective in almost all categories. The principal noted that the staff is working diligently to improve scores in student categories such as students with special needs. Ms. Talmadge spoke about the academic progression of students at Goff due to the rigorous curriculum and improvement within the Suburban Council Schools. She explained how the 2005 State Performance Standards will be transitioning to the Common Core. Mr. Taylor reviewed strategies for the social and emotional needs of children in the building. He reviewed the bullying prevention programs, space reorganization for counseling, and new evaluations for staff. Mr. Sloane said that Goff is using a 6% goal for increase in ELA scores and an 8% goal for increase in math scores. To achieve these goals, the staff is using research-based methods, expecting excellence in student work, and offering a wide variety of activities and clubs to enrich the middle school experience. He said that AIS teachers are also employing research based activities to differentiate individual student needs. Ms. Talmadge explained how the Common Core Standards change math from an abstract to conceptual area and change ELA from literature basis to a non-fiction and fiction basis. The Common Core Standards will be implemented with professional development for staff, during team time, planning period, and other initiatives. She shared the needs to align the curriculum through a mapping process using Atlas Rubicon software and to look at best practices in other school districts. Mr. Taylor said it was a goal to increase core time in the schedule next year versus time for other subjects. He stated the staff would be looking at 21st century skills, computer technology, and departmental time. The assistant principal also reviewed the potential implementation of the MAP program for 2011-2012. Ms. Talmadge said the Middle School staff will function as a team, working together, not butting heads, keeping their composure, hanging in there, and expecting excellence. All Sports Club Recognition Dr. Nagle requested Dr. Harrison and Mr. Leonard to join her at the podium. She said that the All Sports Club has recognized the lack of state funding for interscholastic athletics and has worked to restore funds for freshman sports. Dr. Nagle said
ALL SPORTS CLUB RECOGNITION
125 students are participating in freshman girls’ and boys’ soccer, boys’ lacrosse, and girls’ softball this year due to the fund-raising efforts of the All Sports Club. She spoke of the need for students to have positive role models such as coaches and junior varsity and varsity athletes. The Superintendent commended the All Sports Club for diligently selling sportswear at athletic events, conducting other fund-raising activities, and awarding two $1,000 scholarships each year. She also commented on their donations to the Hall of Fame, Columbia trophy cases, and turf field scoreboard. Dr. Nagle recognized Mr. Schwartz, Ms. McBride, Ms. McManusSarubbi, Mr. White, and Ms. Shaver for all their efforts on behalf of student athletes and the community. Energy Star Awards Dr. Nagle explained that the District was recently notified by the US Environmental Protection Agency of two awards for energy management. She said the District’s partnership with Energy Education, Inc. has produced over one million dollars in savings over time. The Superintendent recognized Mr. Brownell as Energy Education Manager and Mr. Daley as Operations and Maintenance Supervisor for all their efforts to make the program a great success. She presented Energy Star Leader plaques for the District’s leadership in reducing greenhouse gas emissions across all of its buildings with designations for Top Overall Energy Performance and 20% Improvement in Overall Energy Performance. Dr. Nagle also recognized Mr. Edson for his efforts in starting the program beginning in 2007.
ENERGY STAR AWARDS
4.
Public Forum Ms. Myron asked about the possibility of parents paying for pickup and drop off at athletic practices and events.
PUBLIC FORUM
5.
Board Forum Ms. Maciol extended congratulations to Mr. Sloane and his staff for a wonderful school presentation. She acknowledged the performing students in band and choir and the work of the student council. Ms. Maciol thanked everyone for the pen and said it was an honor to serve the community. She recognized the work of staff to achieve the Energy Star Awards.
BOARD FORUM
Ms. Curtin thanked the members of the All Sports Club for their support of students and the community and noted that most, if not all officers, no longer have children in the schools. She commended the student council for the Laura Casellini Concert and still retains a pink bracelet. Ms. Taylor thanked Mr. Brownell, Mr. Daley, and Mr. Edson for coordinating the energy savings program to achieve the Energy Star status. She acknowledged the phenomenal work of the All Sports
Club and thanked them for their efforts. Ms. Taylor said the work of the student council was phenomenal in raising $3,200 for Laura Casellini and $700 for the community through a bake sale. She stated that the students are instilled with a strong sense of community and becoming an integral part of society. Ms. Taylor acknowledged the administration, staff, and students at Goff School for their musical performances and presentation to the Board. Ms. Taylor also commended the administration and staff at Goff School for planning the annual Mix It Up Day. Ms. Curran thanked the Goff staff for their many efforts and bringing programs together for students and parents. She said that many staff members are involved in after school activities and clubs, which was evident from the student music performances and student council presentation. Ms. Curran thanked Mr. Brownell for his energy updates and for the assistance of Mr. Daley and Mr. Edson with the program. She also thanked the All Sports Club for their work on behalf of students and the community. Mr. Mann thanked all individuals attending the meeting, the All Sports Club, student council, student performers, and all the wonderful things going on in the district. He was proud to serve the community on the Board. Ms. Burke reflected how proud she was of the entire school community and that it takes a whole community to achieve what we have done. Ms. Blostein thanked the All Sports Club for all their efforts and said that fund-raising is quite a challenge. She recognized the staff and students at Goff for a wonderful presentation to the Board and the student council for making an important impact in our world. Ms. Garrigan-Piela thanked everyone at Goff for hosting the meeting including the performing groups and student council. She appreciated the gift of the pen for Board service. Ms. Garrigan-Piela congratulated the All Sports Club on their recognition and noted that all of the officers no longer have students in school, but continue to give their time and service for the school. She recognized the energy savings program and spoke about working smarter and more efficiently to save costs. Ms. Garrigan-Piela wished the sports teams well in post-season play and acknowledged the boy’s football team winning of the Liberty Division Championship and their upcoming play on Friday, October 27. She thanked members of the community and administration for attending the recent games.
6.
Minutes Be it Resolved, that upon the recommendation of the District Clerk, the Board of Education approves the minutes of September 14, and September 27, 2011. Moved by: Ms. Garrigan-Piela Seconded by: Ms. Burke Vote: Ayes – 5, Nays – 0, Abstentions – 4 (Ms. Taylor, Mr. Mann, Ms. Blostein, Ms. Curran) Motion carried.
MINUTES
7.
Regular Business Approval of Programs for Resident Children with Disabilities Be it Resolved, that upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, the Board of Education approves the programs for resident children with disabilities as presented. Moved by: Ms. Blostein Seconded by: Ms. Curran Vote: Ayes – 9, Nays – 0 Motion carried.
REGULAR BUSINESS
8.
Reports and Presentations – Superintendent of Schools
REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS DISTANCE LEARNING
A. Distance Learning Mr. Lyons reviewed a timeline of events involved with the review of distance learning. He introduced Jeff Elliott of Questar III BOCES and Mike Sylofski of NERIC. Mr. Elliott defined distance learning as a multi-channel, interactive video-voice system to see and hear classroom instruction in real time. He advised that it involved installation of a special distance learning classroom with cameras and microphones that is interconnected by a video-data network with other school districts. Mr. Elliott said that he and Mr. Sylofski provide coordination and support to schools, and cooperatively develop the distance learning hosting and receiving course schedule. Photos of other area distance learning classrooms were distributed for Board member review. Mr. Elliott distributed a packet of information for Board members including a map of distance learning sites, fall 2011 schedule, summer 2011 schedule, proposed course offerings for the 2011-2012 school year, and projected costs. Mr. Elliott shared information on the distance learning advisory committee and the development of the course schedule. He said that schools are expressing interest in credit bearing courses during the summer session. Mr. Elliott reviewed how a portion of salaries for host and receiving school personnel are aided through the BOCES formula. He also explained the eligibility of certain technology connection costs for E-Rate funds.
Jason Hofmeister spoke in favor of the distance learning program and courses such as Mandarin Chinese offered through the program that are not offered at Columbia. He said distance learning would be a great opportunity for Columbia students and also offer cost effective options of virtual field trips. Mr. Lyons provided a recommendation of the committee to go forward with the distance learning proposal. He said an agenda item would be placed on the November 9 agenda for consideration and implementation in the summer of 2012. B.
Policies – First Reading Policy #4325, Academic Intervention Services Policy #4325.1, Response to Intervention Policy #6100, Annual Budget Policy 6110, Budget Planning Mr. Edson said that NYSSBA provided standard policy updates for the four policies set for first reading. Academic intervention services are only being provided at grades 6-12, requiring the change in policy #4325. Response to intervention is being implemented earlier than required in the District at grades K-5 according to new policy #4325.1. Mr. Edson commented that the new property tax cap law must be considered during budget planning and development in accordance with policies #6100 and #6110.
POLICIESFIRST READING
9.
Tabled Motions None at this time.
TABLED MOTIONS
10.
Old Business None at this time.
OLD BUSINESS
11.
Consent Agenda A. Financial Reports 1. Warrants - #28, 29, 30
CONSENT AGENDA FINANCIAL REPORTS
B.
Personnel 1. Instructional/Instructional Support Personnel #577 as Recommended by Superintendent 2. Non-Instructional Support Personnel #577 as Recommended by Superintendent
PERSONNEL
C.
Resolution Approving Confidential Settlement Agreement
CONFIDENTIAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
D.
Facilitator for World Café: Town Hall Meeting, November 16, 2011
FACILITATORTOWN HALL MEETING
E.
Acceptance of Gifts and Authorization to Increase the 2011-2012 Budget
ACCEPTANCE OF GIFTS, INCREASE BUDGET
F.
Proposed 2012-2013 Cooperative Bid for Athletic Supplies
COOPERATIVE BID FOR ATHLETIC SUPPLIES
G.
Proposal to Fund 2010 Bus Purchase Reserve
BUS PURCHASE RESERVE
H.
GAPP (German American Partners Program)
GAPP
I.
Board Resolution – Lindsay Rock-Swartz
RESOLUTIONL. ROCK-SWARTZ
Ms. Taylor questioned the length of the GAPP proposal. Mr. Lyons clarified that it would be a one-year pilot program. Mr. Williams said the GAPP is for students and teachers and emphasizes study and learning. He reflected on the professional growth brought on by his own experience with the program. Mr. Williams clarified that the students would go to Germany in July 2012 and then again in 2014, since it is an every other year program. In the other years, the partner school students come to America. Ms. Taylor asked about the grade levels involved in the program. Mr. Williams responded it would be open to all high school students, but preference would be given first to seniors under a point system. Ms. Taylor said she had spoken with Mr. Lyons regarding the program and saw it as a great opportunity. She expressed concern about students missing school in April, particularly AP courses. Mr. Williams explained that the program is designed to see other schools, which is more difficult in July when most German schools are closed. He also said the cost is less expensive in April for students. Mr. Williams stated that two hours a day are devoted to school work, plus students need to do as much as possible prior to leaving for the trip. He shared that students in AP courses typically can handle work in advance and makeup work. Ms. Curtin shared her experiences as an exchange student in South America. She said that students who have these opportunities do what needs to be done to catch up on course work. She said the experiences far outweigh the missed time in
the classroom and will stay with individuals forever. Ms. Curtin was in favor of the GAPP proposal. Ms. Blostein questioned how host families are selected. Mr. Williams said that students fill out an interest form and teachers make the best matches for students. Ms. Blostein asked if families outside of the German program also serve as host families. Mr. Williams responded yes if the number of students is greater than the number of families of students in the German program. Ms. Garrigan-Piela requested discussion on the world café forum on November 16. Dr. Nagle advised that Ms. Blostein will be writing a press release. Ms. Maciol was enthusiastic about the nationally known facilitator who will be organizing the meeting. The facilitator would like to meet with the ad-hoc committee next week to talk about the upcoming forum. Ms. Maciol said the forum will focus on Board goals, will meet the goal of engaging the community, and provide feedback to the Board. She shared the facilitator roles of setting up the forum, recording activities, getting feedback and input, and presenting the outcomes. Ms. Maciol hoped that this would be a learning activity for the future forum planned in January. Ms. Garrigan-Piela commented on the need for a community forum to share thoughts, talk about District expectations, and communication methods. She said it should not be a question and answer session. Ms. Maciol hoped that the PTO could be engaged and possibly assist with refreshments. Ms. Taylor commended Ms. Lussier at Bell Top for starting a writing club. Ms. Burke also thanked Ms. Lussier and asked which grades would participate. Mr. McHugh responded grades 3-5. Dr. Harrison was pleased to serve as a volunteer coach for boys’ basketball. Be it Resolved, that upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, the Consent Agenda, including the addendum to Item 11-B-1, Instructional /Instructional Support Personnel #577, be approved as presented. Moved by: Ms. Taylor Seconded by: Ms. Curran Vote: Ayes – 9, Nays – 0 Motion carried.
12.
New Business Ms. Burke suggested that Board members provide feedback to Ms. Garrigan-Piela on the proposed NYSSBA resolutions at the meeting. Board members provided Ms. Garrigan-Piela with the following feedback on the proposed NYSSBA resolutions: Tuition Tax Credit and Educational Vouchers: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Standards for Educational Funding Reform: In Favor – 9, Opposed - 0 Principles of 21st Century Retirement Benefits: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Pension Contribution Reserve Funds: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 State Share of District Superintendent Salary: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Reserve Fund for Other Post-Employment Benefits: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 District Superintendent Salary Cap: In Favor – 0, Opposed – 9 Technological Consolidation: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 School District Retirement Contributions: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Performance Pay for Teachers: In Favor –8, Opposed – 1 (Ms. Blostein) Change in Tax Collection Schedule: In Favor – 8, Opposed – 1 (Mr. Mann) Cooperative Purchasing for School Districts: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Teacher Layoff Rules: In Favor – 8, Opposed – 1 (Ms. Blostein) Civil Service Law Reform: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Employee and Retiree Health Care Contributions: In Favor – 8, Opposed – 1 (Ms. Blostein) Conforming Special Education to Federal Requirements: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Placement of Students with a Disability: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Teacher Retirement and Health Care Reserve Funds: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Core Principles of Education Policy: In Favor – 9, Opposed – 0 Audit Schedule: In Favor – 2 (Harrison, Mann), Opposed – 7 Grade Weighting: In Favor – 4 (Ms. Curtin, Dr. Harrison, Ms. Blostein, Ms. Garrigan-Piela), Opposed – 5 Ms. Burke commented in opposition to the grade weighting proposal; Ms. Garrigan-Piela commented in favor of the grade weighting proposal. Dr. Harrison requested that Ms. Garrigan-Piela make a request to pull item #7, District Superintendent Salary Cap for a separate
NEW BUSINESS
vote during the NYSSBA voting. Dr. Harrison clarified the positions of the Board as in favor for items #1-6, and 8-19. He clarified the positions of the Board as opposed for items #7, 20, and 21. 13.
Committee Reports Mr. Edson advised that the North Greenbush Supervisor was the guest at the last BRAC meeting. The East Greenbush and Schodack Supervisors will be guests at upcoming meetings to collect information for the Seversky study.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Ms. Taylor reviewed topics of discussion at the recent Education Committee meeting including distance learning, pilot of NWEA, Kindergarten assessment, MAP, GAPP pilot, and APPR negotiations. She said the Committee is requesting a community member to join. No experience is required, although some educational background may be preferable. Ms. Garrigan-Piela commented on the benefit of the NWEA program as being more than test-oriented. 14.
Public Forum None at this time.
PUBLIC FORUM
15.
Board Forum Ms. Garrigan-Piela thanked the Middle School staff and administration for the gift of pins as Board member recognition.
BOARD FORUM
Ms. Maciol commented on the fine art work being done on the suicide prevention posters in conjunction with the grant received by the District. Dr. Nagle requested Board permission to hold the December meeting at Columbia for recognition of sports teams and the Computer Graphics Class for poster design. She will invite County Executive Kathy Jimino and Majority Leader Ron Canestrari. Ms. Maciol announced the mental health clinic will open at Columbia on November 15. 16.
Adjournment Motion by Ms. Curtin and seconded by Ms. Taylor to adjourn the meeting. Vote: Ayes – 9, Nays – 0 Motion carried. Time: 9:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted,
Deborah L. Mead District Clerk
ADJOURNMENT
