Chester-Andover Elementary School
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Meeting
Thursday, January 26, 2012, 8:15 a.m.
Windsor Southwest Supervisory Union – Conference Room
Present:
Board: Wendalyn Baker-Chair, Tonia Fleming, and Jeff Hance
Administration: David Adams-Superintendent
Public: Virginia Walsh Mack- Recording Secretary
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m.
Annual Meeting Warnings
Tonia made a motion to amend the warning to identify the informational meeting will be held on Monday, February 27, 2012. Motion approved.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Jeff made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:31 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Meeting
Friday, January 13, 2012, 8:00 a.m.
Windsor Southwest Supervisory Union – Conference Room
Present:
Board: Wendalyn Baker-Chair, Tonia Fleming, and Phillisa Prescott
Administration: David Adams-Superintendent
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 8:08 a.m.
Annual Meeting Budget Warnings
David went over the warning and the articles for the board. The board discussed the number of budget committee members CAES has. Phillisa made a motion to authorize the superintendent to look into the number of budget committee members in Article four and to prepare the Article for signatures. Motion approved. Phillisa made a motion to approve the CAES Warning as presented. Motion approved.
Other Business
None
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Adjournment
Phillisa made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:30 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Meeting
Monday, January 11, 2012, 8:00 a.m.
Central Office Conference Room
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Jeff Hance, Phillisa Jones-Prescott, Ginger Roper and Tonia Fleming
Administration: Scott Gray-Principal, and Meredith Austin-Business Manager
Public/Staff: Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary and Marilyn Mahusky
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 8:08 a.m.
Approval of Minutes of January 4, 2012
Phillisa made a motion to approve the minutes of January 4, 2012 as presented. Correction: Adjournment at “7:21 p.m.” Motion approved as amended.
Finance
FY’13 Budget Adoption
Meredith reported she removed .2 FTE for Compensatory Ed as directed by the board. The Para professionals remained the same. The inflationary cost line was increased. The budget is down 2% from the FY’12 budget at $3,571,469. Ginger made a motion to approve the FY’13 CAES budget for $3,571,469. Motion approved.
Announced Tuition
By January 15th schools who accept students from other districts must announce their tuition rate for FY’13. Meredith is asking the board to set the tuition rate at no more than $8,891.00. Ginger made a motion to set the CAES tuition rate for FY’13 at no more than $8,891.00. Motion approved.
Annual Warning Review
The warnings need to be approved and signed. Ginger made a motion to put $50,000 of the fund balance in the capitol improvement fund. Motion approved.
The board will meet to approve and sign the warnings at 8:00 a.m. on Friday January 13, 2012.
Other Business
None
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Adjournment
Phillisa made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:34 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester Andover Elementary School
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Meeting
Wednesday, January 4, 2012, 5:00 p.m.
Chester Andover Elementary School - Library
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Phillisa Jones Prescott, Ginger Roper, Jeff Hance and Tonia Fleming
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent, Scott Gray-Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager and Wayne Flewelling-Director of Special Education
Public: SAPA TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Michele Robidoux, Kathy Cherubini, Pat Gutierrez and Kathy Martens
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:10 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of December 19, 2011
Tonia made a motion to approve the minutes of December 19, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
Phillisa made a motion to go into executive session at 5:09 p.m. to discuss personnel. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 6:03 p.m.
Finance
FY’13 Budget
Meredith handed out a four year comparison format as provided by the DOE. The equalized pupil numbers are continuing to go down. The per-pupil cost has gone up. The tax rate then fluctuates. Meredith gave the board a bar graph showing the equalized pupils, education spending, education spending per equalized pupil and the tax rate (attached). She also gave the board bar graphs based on level funding education spending and level funding education spending per equalized pupil (attached).
Meredith identified a number of line item reductions in the budget. This budget is reduced by almost $43,000. Meredith explained that the reductions in the FY’13 budget will be purchased this year with the savings in salaries and benefits being offset by the jobs fund dollars.
David asked the board for direction as to how to reduce the budget by another $17,000. The board had further discussion on other budget adjustments that could be made. David said the consolidated grant has supported 1.8 FTE for School Wide Programs teachers and .2 FTE (one day per week) was locally funded. .2 of the position is about $17,000. The school wide programs and regular education Para professional positions were discussed. The board asked the administration to remove the .2 FTE Title position from the budget. Kathy Martens asked about the Para professionals’ lines. Lines 374 and 354 have the same dollar amount but the number of employees is the same. Meredith said she will look into it.
The board agreed to meet Wednesday, January 11th at 8:00 a.m. at the central office.
Federal Jobs Grant Fund Update
This was discussed during the budget discussion.
Facilities Update
Jeff said there was about $146,000.00 in the capital improvement fund. The chimney repair, gym floor project, alarm system, burner repairs and the new tables and benches in the cafeteria have been completed.
Policies
Threats of Violence or Destruction F-1:3 Second Read: Correction: Second page first paragraph after #6 should read “otherwise”.
Enrollment of Children of Non-Resident Teachers F:14 Second Read
Weapons Policy F:41 Second Read
Phillisa asked for a motion to adopt these policies as amended. Tonia made a motion to adopt the above policies as amended. Motion approved.
Principal Report
Scott reported the winter sports program starts tomorrow and the students are excited. Staff will be working with a math consultant and the common core state standards as well as other professional development on “ski Thursdays”.
Superintendent Report
David said he will be putting the articles for the budgets together. A draft of the Picus report from the joint legislative committee on student funding has been released. David will be testifying before the legislature tomorrow regarding Act 153. A task force for Act 153 that David has worked on will ask for a task force of attorneys to help with the reorganization of SUs.
Supervisory Union Update
Supervisory Union Executive Committee
Phillisa asked that this be tabled due to the time.
Supervisory Union Merger
At the 12/14/11 consolidation meeting the committee voted to move forward with proposing a merger of the RWSU and WSWSU. Insuring state funding for the merger by July 1, 2012, a 60/40 vote to hire a new superintendent and to approve the budget are provisions in the motion.
The mountain towns and their potential vote to form a Regional Educational District were discussed and the fact that the state could make decisions on the SU merger whether a RED is formed or not.
Other Business
None
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Phillisa made a motion to go into executive session at 7:08 p.m. to discuss personnel. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 7:20 p.m. No action taken.
Adjournment
Phillisa made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:01 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Meeting
Monday, December 19, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Chester Andover Elementary School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Jeff Hance and Tonia Fleming
Administration: David Adams-Superintendent, Scott Gray-Principal, and Meredith Austin-Business Manager
Public/Staff: Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of December 5, 2011
Jeff made a motion to approve the minutes of December 5, 2011 as presented. Correction: Policy-Current non resident teachers who have children attending currently; children of future non resident teachers will not be accepted beyond the 11/12 school year. Principal’s report “Working Walrus” awards. Motion approved as amended.
Finance
FY’13 Budget
Meredith presented the board with the anticipated revenues (Attached). The draft audit for FY’11 is in and the fund balance is $152,048.00. Meredith has put $52,048.00 into this budget and recommends the board ask the tax payers to support putting the remaining funds in another fund such as capitol improvement, technology etc. Tuition is based on four students; collapse line 1600 and 1610; 3201 and 3102 is revenue to offset the SU assessment; education spending is up 2.33%.
Meredith gave the board a three year comparison of tax rates (Attached). David asked the board for guidance. The board recommends the federal jobs funds be used for teacher salaries and use the salary savings for something budgeted for next year. David asked the board for a target. The board is recommending the administration reduce the education spending to a .005% increase. The board agreed to have a facilities meeting on 1/4/12 at 4:00 p.m. at CAES.
Facilities
Construction Company Name Change - Bid Award for Cafeteria Table Project- The company that was awarded the bid for the cafeteria tables (MacDonald Secore) has changed it‘s name to Krause-Livingston Construction, Inc.
Other Business
Wendy reported a teacher at CAES would like to give her students t shirts with “CAES” printed on them. Wendy received feedback that there could be an issue because the mascot was not on the t shirt. Discussion ensued.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Adjournment
Jeff made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:56 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester Andover Elementary School
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Meeting
Monday, December 5, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Chester-Andover Elementary School – Library
Present:
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Phillisa Jones-Prescott-Vice Chair, Ginger Roper, and Tonia Fleming
Administration: Scott Gray-Principal, David Adams-Superintendent, Meredith Austin-Business Manager
Public/Staff: SAPA TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Angela Hutchins, Lyndsie Hammond, Frank Kelley, and Lauren Baker
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:13 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of November 7, 2011
Phillisa made a motion to approve the minutes of November 7, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
David announced Frank Kelley was awarded the Gilder-Lehrman Institute of American History Vermont Teacher of the Year. Vermont Alliance for the Social Studies was a co sponsor of the award. David went over the criteria for nominees and gave background on Frank’s teaching and some of the accolades he has received. Frank was presented with a certificate and $1,000.00. The board congratulated Frank.
Personnel
Co-Curricular Hiring Report
David informed the board of the co curricular contracts that have been issued. (attached)
Facilities Update
David reported the cafeteria tables will be installed over the Christmas break.
Policies
Threats of Violence or Destruction F-1:3 – First Read
Enrollment of Children of Non-Resident Teachers F:14- First Read- Current employee’s who have children attending CAES may continue to request their children attend CAES. Future students of employees will not be accepted.
Weapons Policy F:41- First Read
Phillisa gave background on the above policies. They will be put on the next agenda for adoption.
Principal Report
Scott reported the CAES Circus was well attended and the students had a great time. There will be a concert on December 13th at 7 p.m. Students are being awarded “Rhino Awards” for their hard work; the awards are displayed outside Scott’s office. CAES now has 80 Ipads in the building for student use. The teachers will focus on professional development during ski afternoons. Phillisa asked Scott for a presentation on the Ipads.
Superintendent Report
David reported on November 11th WSWSU had a joint in-service with RWSU teachers. Some CAES teachers attended a conference in November on using the Ipad. The business office is in the middle of budget season and is very busy.
Tomorrow, December 6th at 6:00 p.m. at CTES there will be another joint supervisory union study meeting. On December 14th there will be a meeting for both Supervisory Unions to vote on moving forward to present a plan to the Department of Education.
SU Planning Study Update
Phillisa reported that a draft of the study is not ready as the committee has asked for additional information which will be presented at tomorrow night’s meeting. She went over the tax savings to the towns of Chester and Andover and what the savings would be for CAES. She supports the study. David said all of the information regarding the study is on the WSWSU website.
Finance
Budget Development Update
Meredith went over the restructuring of the budget with the changes in Act 153. She went over the methodology used to calculate costs (attached). David said this is a major change and a cost shift in the budget.
Meredith hit the high points of the budget (attached). Transportation went down; Keewaydin was added back into the budget for $3,200.00; compensatory education line: .2 FTE remains in the CAES budget and the rest is going to the SU to be paid by a grant. Health insurance: There will be no more than a 5% increase in health insurance and no less than a 3% increase; there is an additional $5,000 for technology; fuel oil has gone up; there is an increase for the auditors; the inflammatory costs line has addition dollars added. The budget is down by 2%. Discussion ensued regarding professional development, Kindergarten increase (Kindercamp and Para professionals), and a co curricular increase to restore the cuts from last year. Meredith talked about the special education personnel cost
shifts.
There is a finance committee meeting on 12/7 at 8:30 a.m. and 12/13 at 5:00 p.m. A tentative board meeting has been scheduled for 12/19.
Meredith reported on the Federal Education Jobs Fund (memo attached). CAES has received $50,693.00. The administration will come back to the board at a later meeting with recommendations. The board would like to hear from Scott as to where he thinks these dollars should be spent.
Other Business
Dates: Board meetings on 12/19/11 at 5:00 p.m. and 1/4/11 p.m. to approve the budget.
Phillisa asked that WSWSU update be put on future agendas.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Phillisa made a motion to go into executive session at 6:37 p.m. to discuss negotiations. The superintendent was invited to attend. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 7:45 p.m. No action taken.
Adjournment
Phillisa made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
November 7, 2011 5:00 p.m. Board Minutes
Board Present: Wendy Baker – Chair, Ginger Roper, Tonia Fleming, Jeff Hance, Phillisa Jones Prescott
Administration Present: David Adams – Superintendent, Scott Gray – Principal, Meredith Austin – SU Business Manager
Public: Kyle Rogstad – SAPA TV, Lauren Baker, Janet Currier – Recording Secretary
Call to Order: Wendy called meeting to order at 5:06 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of October 3, 2011 –Phillisa made motion to approve minutes. Wendy had 3 corrections; at top of page remove the word Unapproved in front of the word Minutes; Remove the first three items listed under Policies; Under Principal Report add “car” traffic in the third sentence. Minutes were approved as amended.
Personnel a) Nominations- Long Term Substitute Teacher – Board approved hiring Lyndsie Hammond as a long term substitute teacher to cover for Kathy Cherubini and teach grades 3-4.
Appointment of SU Representative – Phillisa made motion to appoint Jeff Hance as the third supervisory union representative. Board approved.
Appointment of Finance Committee Member – Phillisa made motion to appoint Tonia Fleming to the Finance Committee. Board approved. The next Finance Committee meeting will be held on November 21st at the Supervisory Union Office.
Finance – A report will be given in December.
Facilities Update – David reviewed work done over the summer and said that Jim Spaulding and Scott Gray have been very busy with many different projects. The projects that have been completed are: gym and kitchen floors have been replaced, the asbestos abatement has been done, the chimney has been repaired, and work has been done to the fire alarm system. David said that approximately $53,000 has been spent on those updates and the cafeteria tables will be replaced in December. David said he believes there will be approximately $40,000 left in the capital repair fund after the tables are installed. He said the Facilities Committee might want to look at replacing countertops and sinks as they are quite old and have about worn out their usefulness.
David said that CAES has not received a full bill for removal of water from the fuel tanks from Tropical Storm Irene. The paperwork has been submitted to FEMA in hopes of getting 87% of the repair costs back but we have not heard yet. All deadlines have been met and CAES has received verbal approval for coverage.
Policies Update – None at this time.
Chester-Andover Board Minutes November 7, 2011 Page 2
Principal Report – Scott said that the NECAP testing is complete and all the tests have been packed up and returned to Measured Progress for scoring. Results probably won’t be available until March. He said that Connie Cannon is coming to CAES do professional development in Math with the staff. Scott talked about all the areas they have looked at to find problem areas and improve teaching methods. He said that ASPIRE begins on Monday after Thanksgiving and there are more than 35 students that will take part in it. He said this Thursday evening a spelling program will be looked at and then work with a professional will be done to implement the program. Phillisa said she is happy the spelling program is being brought back to the school.
Superintendent Report - David said he attended the VSBA and VSA Conference on October 20th and 21st and it was a wonderful conference. He said this is a very informative conference for both board members and superintendents and he hopes that next fall the board members will consider attending it as it is very worthwhile. He explained that Tropical Storm Irene required changes to the school calendar and Professional Development days. Next Tuesday there will be a Professional Development day with David Leibman on Informational Text for Writing Common Core Curriculum. There will also be I-Pad training and a team will travel to Maine to see how Maine has implemented the I-Pads into their schools. Friday there will be a training done for office staff on Ergonomics, all office staff members have
been invited. David said he will also give an update on the possible upcoming merger. David reported that the para-educators participated in the training that took place prior to the start of school this year and he feels the year got off to a better start because of it
A Curriculum Advisory Committee Members document was given to those present. David said the Committee plans to meet about 4 times a year to offer support to the school curriculum teams. The next meeting is scheduled for March 7, 2012. The Curriculum Management Policy is part of the packet given out for review. David said several curriculum teams met during the summer and one team was the music teachers. They looked at the music curriculum and grade expectations for grades K – 12.
S.U. Planning Study Update - Phillisa said the last meeting was on October 19, 2011 at Cavendish Town Elementary School where they worked on a template of a draft to be submitted to the State on the merger. She hoped that a draft petition to be submitted to the State will be available for review prior to the December 6th, meeting at Green Mountain (6:00 p.m.). This draft is of work being done on the possible merger with Rutland-Windsor Supervisory Union and Windsor Southwest Supervisory Union. The next meeting will be on November 16th at Cavendish Town Elementary School. Phillisa urged all the board members to attend this meeting as a financial analysis will be available regarding the merger. A meeting was held with the full S.U. Board regarding how they would assess the costs back
to the schools and a consensus was decided to base it on equalized student numbers and special education and other ungraded students would be based on child count. The new assessment will be based on this information. On December 14th (location to be determined) a joint S.U. meeting will be held to decide if the petition will be submitted to the State or not. Phillisa is concerned that the public be
made aware of what is occurring with this merger and she feels it should be announced in the Vermont Journal, the Message and the Beating Drum to get the word out.
The State is very involved in this process. David gave an explanation of the “100 day” process as he called it that has taken place to date. We are going to be the State’s “Test
Chester-Andover Board Minutes November 7, 2011 Page 3
Case” to see if there will be financial benefits to merge. A state consultant will be presenting the financial figures next week on the 16th at Cavendish Town Elementary School. David feels that the cost savings and opportunities for student learning will be great. This merger has been discussed for about a year and a half to date. The administration was directed by the board to get the merger information in the papers as soon as possible.
Other Business – None.
Public Discussion – None.
Executive Session – Phillisa made motion to enter Executive Session at 5:54 p.m. to discuss Negotiations and Policy and to invite the Superintendent, Principal and Business Manager to attend. Board approved.
The Board came out of Executive Session at 6:50 p.m. No further action taken.
Adjournment: Phillisa made motion to adjourn at 6:50 p.m. Board approved.
Respectfully submitted,
Janet Currier
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
Monday, October 3, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Unapproved Minutes
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Phillisa Jones-Prescott, Jeff Hance, Ginger Roper, and Tonia Fleming
Administration: Scott Gray-Principal, Linda Waite- Assistant Superintendent and Meredith Austin-Business Manager
Public/Staff: SAPA, TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary and Sue Fortier
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of September 12, 2011
Phillisa made a motion to approve the minutes of September 12, 2011 as presented. Correction: Add Tonia Fleming as being present. Motion approved as amended.
Personnel
Long Term Substitute Teacher
Linda reported this nomination is for Michelle Jennifer Farrar as the Long Term Substitute for Charlene Leonard, CAES Title I Teacher, who is on a medical leave.
Ginger made a motion to approve hiring Michelle Jennifer Farrar as the Long Term Substitute for Charlene Leonard as presented. Motion approved.
Finance
FY’ 12 Budget Development Timeline
Meredith went over the timeline with the board. She talked about the changes regarding moving special education costs from the school budgets to the S.U. budget.
SU Assessment Methodology
Meredith went over the different ways assessments are calculated. The administration is working to decide which method they will use in the budget process.
Facilities Update
FEMA Site Inspection
Scott reported FEMA inspected the school grounds last week. Each incident is reported separately. The oil tanks were looked at, the fence by the brook was looked at, as well as the garden. Scott is not sure what if anything will be done about the garden.
Policies
Student Conduct F1:1 Final Rescission: No action; action was taken at the last meeting.
Suspension and Expulsion F1:2 Final Rescission No action; action was taken at the last meeting.
Student Conduct F:1 Adopt No action; action was taken at the last meeting.
Participation of Home Study Students F:29 Second Read
Firearms F:43 Second Read
Educational Support System G:5 Second Read
Hazing F:34 Second Read
Ginger made a motion to approve the above policies as presented. Motion approved.
Principal Report
Scott reported the bus routes are back to normal except for the Popple Dungeon route. Bus 4 and 7 have been permanently combined. With the busses running the traffic has slowed down at the school. The leadership team will be scheduling some parent nights to work on everyday math; they will also be focusing on NECAP science scores. The new cafeteria tables have been ordered and are scheduled to be installed in November. The ASPIRE afterschool program will start back up at CAES if there is interest. They are a licensed child care provider. Sue Fortier said a sustainable program would need 12 students per day and she believes the interest for parents is there. Ginger said this program was at CAES when her children were here and she would recommend the program. This is a
fee based program. The cost for 5 days is $69.14 until 6:00 p.m. and the cost for 3 days is $30.31 until 5:00 p.m. They do accept childcare subsidies.
Superintendent Report
WSWSU Curriculum Advisory Membership
Linda reported the administration is looking for a board member to sit on the curriculum committee. There would be three or four meetings over the school year. The committee has documents that they would like to go over with board members and community members. These meetings would take place late afternoons. Tonia volunteered to sit on the committee.
NECAP Science Results
Linda said the science NECAP scores were released from the Board of Education last week. More detailed reports will be available to board members at future meetings and a complete report will again be provided in the WSWSU State of the District Report later this year.
In the coming weeks Administrators and Teacher s will analyze the data from the test scores and develop action steps to improve teacher capacity and ensure opportunities to learn best strategies for science instruction and assessment which include offering a summer five-day Science Assessment graduate course for WSWSU teachers. In addition teachers worked this summer to develop a draft science scope and sequence document that includes mastery and content objectives for each grade level K-6.
Scott said there is a trend in the data. The leadership team will look at the data from every aspect and target the areas most needed. He said the same process will take place with all subjects. This will become part of the action plan.
Linda said most of the students fell into the “almost proficient” group so the hope is for the teachers to move that large group of students to the “proficient” group. Parents will receive individual results at parent-teacher conferences.
Discussion: Science testing is not required under the No Child Left Behind law; performance targets will be set; it seems this issue has not been “pinned down”; taking action steps to move forward; bringing in outside resources-VINS and ELF.
VSA/VSBIT Conference – October 20th & 21st
Linda said the Vermont School Boards Assoc. is having a conference at Lake Morey on October 20th and 21st. They are offering workshops for school board members.
Impact of Irene on School Operations
Linda said the revised calendar has gone out. She went over the changes. The in service days will now be instructional days and two days were added to the end of school.
SU Planning Study Update
Phillisa reported the executive committee voted to hire a consultant for a needs assessment study at a cost of under $2,000 for each of the schools. She said she is not sure if the consolidation is “good” for CAES; the study will answer a lot of questions. The consolidation is contingent on the four mountain towns forming a Regional Educational District (RED) and moving to BRSU. There will be a joint S.U. meeting on October 13th at GMUHS at 6:30 to determine what methodology will be used for the study. The committee will have several more meetings to create a plan to present to the department of education in January.
Other Business
None
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Not necessary
Adjournment
Phillisa made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:06 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
Monday, September 12, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Phillisa Jones-Prescott and Jeff Hance
Administration: Scott Gray-Principal and David Adams- Superintendent
Public/Staff: SAPA TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary and Lauren Baker-Director of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction, Angela Hutchins, Wayne Flewelling-Special Education Director, Leslie Kenney and Tonia Fleming.
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m.
Wendy welcomed Tonia Fleming, CAES new board member.
Approval of Minutes of August 1, 2011
Jeff made a motion to approve of the minutes of August 1, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
Personnel
Long Term Substitutes
David informed the board a staff member is unable to work and a long term substitute will need to be hired for 8 to 12 weeks.
Finance
Health Reimbursement Agreement –Jeff signed the resolution.
Cafeteria Tables Bid Award- David reported two bids were received. Meredith and David recommend the board hire MacDonald Secore for $39,380 to replace the cafeteria tables. Phillisa made a motion to hire MacDonald Secore for $39,380 to replace the cafeteria tables. Discussion ensued: It will take about 3 days to complete the work but will take approximately 8 to12 weeks to receive the tables. This work should be completed as soon as possible. Motion approved.
Appointment of Negotiation Team Member
Wendy asked for a nomination for negotiation team member. Phillisa made a motion to nominate Tonia Fleming as the negotiation team member from CAES. Motion approved. David gave background regarding the negotiations.
Facilities
David said the gym floor has been installed and looks beautiful; the chimney has been relined and reduced and there are new burners. David said the contractor discovered the oil tanks were filled with water which needed to be removed by professionals. David said he is going to apply to FEMA for assistance and the insurance company has been notified. Discussion ensued regarding the safety of the tanks. There was erosion damage to the playground. The garden was lost due to the storm. The new soccer field faired pretty well.
Policies
Phillisa made a motion to waive the reading of the following policies and to adopt them as presented. Motion approved.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Compliance (HIPPA) D:15 Second Read
Student Conduct and Discipline F:1 Second Read
Transportation F:12 Second Read Amended
Attendance F:22 Second Read Amended
Curriculum Management G:1 Second Read Amended
Student Conduct F1:1 Second Read Rescind
Suspension and Expulsion F1:2 Second Read Rescind
Phillisa reported the policy committee has been working to update the policy books. Phillisa made a motion to waive the first readings for the following policies. Motion approved.
Participation of Home Study Students F:29 First Read
Firearms F:43 First Read
Educational Support System G:5 First Read
Hazing F:34 First Read
Principal Report
Scott reported School Years’ Eve went very well and he thanked Becky Plunkard for her hard work. Scott thanked the PTG for the plants they brought to him.
The bus routes are going pretty well; student handbooks will be going home and will also be available on line; a substitute will be hired for Charlene Leonard.
Scott said the Dental Hygienist Program was recommended to him from the Principal at Flood Brook and David gave some background on this grant program.
Tai Kwon Do, Homework club and the RESPECT Club will be starting soon.
Superintendent Report
David thanked Scott for the School Years’ Eve celebration and also thanked Becky for her hard work. David asked for understanding from everyone regarding the bussing.
Teacher Evaluation System
David reported this is the tool which will be used to evaluate teachers.
David introduced Wayne Flewelling our new Special Education Director. Wayne gave the board some background and said he is looking forward to working with all of the students and staff in the S.U. Wayne had an in-service for Para professionals this summer where they received some professional development and were also able to be recognized for the work they do. Leslie Kenney said it was a very good day; she was able to meet other Para professionals in the S.U.
Effects of Irene on School Opening
David said they have missed 5 instructional days. He thinks they will be able to use in-service days and to possibly use days prior to Thanksgiving and Christmas. Discussion: The possibility to receive waivers for these lost days. The calendar will be reissued. The extra time added to the school day will not affect the ability to make up the days. David thanked the board for their support.
Other Business
None
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Adjournment
Phillisa made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 5:49 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
Monday, August 1, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Ginger Roper, Betsy Hart and Jeff Hance
Administration: Scott Gray-Principal and Linda Waite-Asst. Superintendent
Public/Staff: SAPA TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary and Lauren Baker-Director of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of June 27, 2011
Jeff made a motion to approve the minutes of June 27, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
* Betsy Hart informed the board she will be resigning as a board member as she has taken a position in one of the other schools in the S.U. She thanked everyone for the opportunity to serve the CAES community. The board thanked Betsy for her contributions.
Personnel
Nominations-Long Term Substitute Teacher
Ginger made a motion to accept Pam Josselyn as the long term substitute for Kathy Cherubini beginning August 25, 2011. Motion approved.
Finance
Health Reimbursement Agreement
Linda gave the board background on the health reimbursement agreement. Discussion ensued. Ginger made a motion to appoint David Adams as the contact person for the agreement and to authorize the board clerk to sign the agreement. Motion approved.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Scott reported the kitchen floor is completed and work continues on the gym floor. The chimney has been fixed. The table replacements will go out to bid; there will be a walk through next week. The tables will not be installed before school starts. The boilers will have new burners installed later this month.
Policy
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Compliance (HIPPA) D:15 First Read
Student Conduct and Discipline F:1 First Read
Transportation F:12 Amended
Attendance F:22 Amended
Curriculum Management G:1 Amended
Student Conduct F1:1 Rescind
Suspension and Expulsion F1:2 Rescind
Wendy reported these policies are mandatory. She waived reading the policies. Scott said he is looking at non mandatory policies. Policy F:1 was discussed.
WSWSU Executive Board
None
Principal Report
Scott reported his focus for the last month has been to meet with individual teachers. He said it has been very beneficial to him to get to know his staff. His focus this year will be rebuilding climate and culture in the school as well as AYP. He is planning the first in-service day. He invited the board to the in-service on August 26th at 8:30 a.m.
Superintendent Report
Dental Hygienist Program Grant Award
Linda gave the board the background on this grant. She said David feels Scott should have time to speak with the professionals involved. This will be put on the next agenda. Scott said he has concerns about sufficient space for this program. The schools liability was discussed.
Mission Statement
Wendy asked the board to approve the language changes in the Mission Statement. Ginger made a motion to approve the language changes in the Mission Statement. Motion approved.
Other Business
Wendy made a motion to appoint Jeff Hance as the board clerk. Motion approved. Wendy said the board will need to ask for letters of interest to fill the vacancy on the board.
Ginger reported Green Mountain has been looking at the bus routes and trying to possibly consolidate the bus runs. One bus has been eliminated. Ginger said the GM Board is going to have discussions regarding clustering the bus stops and thinks that a board member from CAES should be involved in the discussion. Scott said he rode a bus run today and he thought that on this particular run there could be cluster stops. Scott said he has some ideas regarding pick up and drop off at CAES.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Adjournment
Jeff made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 5:43 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
June 27, 2011 5:30 p.m. Unapproved Minutes
Board Present: Wendy Baker – Chair, Betsy Hart, Jeff Hance, Phillisa Jones Prescott
Administration Present: David P. Adams– Superintendent, Scott Gray – Principal
Public: Christopher Rosengrant– SAPA TV, Janet Currier – Recording Secretary
Call to Order: Wendy called meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of June 6, 2011– Betsy moved approval of minutes as presented. Board approved.
Finance:
a. Bid Awards – Betsy made motion to approve Knockout Carpet at a cost of $17,122.00 to replace gym and kitchen floors with a 35 cent per square foot additional cost if necessary. Board approved.
Personnel–a) Nominations–
Custodian - Betsy made motion to approve hiring Allison Balmer as a full time custodian at $12.97/hour to begin on July 1, 2011. Board approved.
Co-Curricular Yearbook – Phillisa moved to approve Angela Hutchins and Shanna McCarthy as co-curricular yearbook advisors for the 2010-2011 school year at $303.00 each. Board approved.
Special Education Para Educators (3) – Phillisa moved to hire Anne Cassels, Rena Gordon and Karen Knisley at $13.16/hour for 7.5 hours/day. Board approved.
b) Co-Curricular Reports –
Flag Squad - Board agreed to accept report.
c) Support Staff Memorandum of Agreement – David explained that the Support Staff reorganized into a Windsor Southwest Supervisory Union Support Staff Union and agreed to a two year contract with no changes. Negotiations are to continue to align all support staff contracts as of June 30, 2012. David recommended acceptance. Betsy made motion to accept Memorandum of Agreement for the support staff. Board approved.
d) Request for Accumulated Sick Day Pay – Wendy asked the Board to postpone this until the end of the meeting. Board agreed.
Committee Reports –
Facilities – David said it will be a busy summer at Chester-Andover with Boiler work, Chimney work and floors being replaced.
Policy – None.
WSWSU Executive Board – Phillisa said the Executive Board is looking at a possible merger with Rutland Windsor Supervisory Union. There is a request for a member from each board to sit on the steering committee. She asked to take a poll of the CAES Board to see what their feelings are regarding this merger. She said it seems to be a good fit.
Chester-Andover Board Minutes June 27, 2011 Page 2
She said she will go to the initial meeting to get information and to see if the Chair needs to attend the meetings. She explained that a committee will review all aspects of this merger to see if it is actually feasible or not. The Legislature is being asked to fund the needs assessment but we do not know if they will approve this request or not. Once the needs assessment is done then the boards will receive the detailed information about the merger.
Principal Report - Wendy thanked Joan Nagle for her work for Chester-Andover over the past two years. Joan is not present tonight but the board wanted her to know that her work is appreciated. The board then welcomed the new Principal, Scott Gray who will begin as the Chester-Andover Principal on July 1, 2011.
Superintendent Report –
a) Dental Hygienist Program Grant Award - David gave the board information on this grant program to read and said it would be on the August agenda.
David then gave the board two draft copies of the Chester-Andover Mission Statement to review and make a decision on. This will also be on the August agenda.
Other Business – None.
Public Comment - None.
Executive Session – Phillisa made motion to enter into Executive Session at 5:50 p.m. to discuss a personnel issue and to invite the Superintendent and Principal to participate.
Board came out of Executive Session at 6:02 p.m. Phillisa made motion to pay Steve Sanderson $20.00/day for his unused sick days not to exceed 120 days. Board voted unanimously.
Adjournment – Meeting adjourned at 6:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Janet Currier
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
June 6, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Board Present: Betsy Hart – Acting Chair, Jeff Hance, Ginger Roper (arrived late)
Administration Present: David P. Adams– Superintendent, Joan Nagle – Principal
Public: Christopher Rosengrant– SAPA TV, Meredith Austin, Elise Lisle, Lauren Baker, Toby Treu, Frank Kelley, Polly Westcott, Michelle Robidoux, Cindi Austin, Janet Currier – Recording Secretary
Call to Order: Betsy called meeting to order at 5:04 p.m.
Because only two board members were present and there was no quorum, Betsy said the board would go through the agenda items that do not need board action. She hoped a third board member would arrive by 5:30 p.m.
#4 – Teacher Presentation – Grants – Frank Kelley and Toby Treu were the teacher presenters regarding the Document Camera. Toby Treu explained how using the document camera allows everyone to see the document as it is projected on a screen/wall. Frank demonstrated by showing different documents on the wall. He said this document camera is great because it allows the students to get up and move to show their work to the other students using the camera and therefore holds the students attention better. He said they also got funds for a digital camera that the students can use. Frank said they are just starting with this document camera and they have much more to learn about all that they can use it for.
Betsy congratulated Frank on his nomination for History Teacher of the Year. Toby said Frank has also been nominated for the pool of Social Studies Teachers as well and they are waiting to see who will be chosen for that honor.
#8. Finance Report – a) Federal Jobs Bill – David said last year this bill received a lot of attention in the press. He said that federal dollars have been awarded to the State to be distributed to individual schools. Chester-Andover’s allocation is $60,000.00. David said we are waiting to see how the Vermont Education General Fund stands to see if we will actually receive these funds or not. He explained how the monies can and can not be used if we do get them. Therefore none of the funds will be used until we have further information as to whether or not this money will be available for distribution. David hopes that we will have more guidance by the time budget season arrives.
#9. Committee Reports –a) Facilities – David said the upcoming summer will be a busy one. The floor and tables in the gym will be replaced as well as the chimney and oil burners. Bids have gone out for these projects but we have not gotten anything back yet on the floor and tables in the gym.
Ginger Roper arrived at 5:25 p.m. – there is now a board quorum present.
Chester-Andover Board Minutes June 6, 2011 Page 2
#8 – Finance Report – c) Bid Results – Meredith Austin referenced a memo on the chimney repair and oil burner replacement projects. She said we received two bids on these projects and she is recommending that Chester-Andover go with All Seasons for the chimney repair as they were low bidder and they have worked with us on other projects very successfully. We received two bids on the oil burner replacement project as well. Meredith said that since ARC Mechanical has done all the previous work on the burners she is recommending that we go with them even though they are not the low bidder.
Ginger made motion to approve All Seasons bid at $15,238.00 and ARC Mechanical’s bid at $9,540.00. Board approved. David said he hopes that Jim will have the bids on the floor and tables for the June 27th meeting.
b) Bank Borrowing – Meredith said bids were requested to borrow $813,575.00 for Chester-Andover. She said they received bids from Merchants Bank and People’s United Bank. Meredith reviewed the numbers and interest that would be earned and recommended going with Merchants Bank for borrowing. Jeff made motion to borrow from Merchants Bank the amount of $813,575.00 for the 2012 – 2013 school year. Board approved.
#9. Committee Reports – b) Policies – Betsy said the following two policies are up for second read and approval. F-16 Admission of Resident Students – and F-17 Admission of Non-Resident Tuition Students. The following two policies are to be rescinded: F-16:1 Admission of Resident Students and F-17:1 In District Tuition Student. Ginger made motion to take action to adopt the first two policies and to rescind the last two as requested. Board approved.
c) WSWSU Executive Board – David said that a special meeting will take place tomorrow evening at 7:00 p.m. at Cavendish Town Elementary School. The topic is the possible merging of Windsor Southwest and Rutland Windsor Supervisory Unions. Members from the Department of Education will be present at this meeting. David said a recommendation by the research committee will be made to both S.U. Boards. The boards will then vote to see if this merger should be continued to be investigated to see if it would be financially feasible for this to happen. David named the schools and towns that would be involved. He said rather than having one S.U. become part of the other they would like to form an entirely new Supervisory Union.
#10. Principal Report – a) Enrollment Report -Joan Nagle put together an enrollment numbers report. She said they have noticed a drop in the enrollment numbers over the past few years. She compared several past years and said that they expect the enrollment to drop again for next year. She said they have had several new families come in to register their children for next year though. The new students are across the grades.
b) Music Curriculum Report – Joan said she understood there was a concern about the loss of some of the music teaching time. She presented a proposed schedule for next year and said no one would be losing music times. David said he and Joan both recommend that the board reinstate the .2 music teacher position. Cindi Austin was asked if she
Chester-Andover Board Minutes June 6, 2011 Page 3
teaches Music Theory and History. She said she teaches both to her classes. She said what she teaches is taken from the Vermont Standards. David asked the board present to
consider the information presented and allow them to make the staffing adjustments and then to revisit this issue in the fall. With band and chorus the addition of the .2 position will make a 1.0 FTE music program. Jeff made motion to recall the .2 music position as recommended by the administration. Board approved. Betsy asked that this be re-visited when the full board is present.
Joan informed those present that Frank Kelley did receive the History Teacher of the Year Award last week and she announced it in her building. She said he makes History fascinating for the students at Chester-Andover and they are lucky to have him as a teacher.
#11. Superintendent Report – David extended his congratulations to Frank. David said that the follow up of the two S.U. merger study and the minutes of tomorrow evenings meeting would be posted on the S.U. website. David said that new hire Teacher Paul Martorano has a request of the board. He lives out of state and plans to relocate to Chester if possible. He is requesting that his two daughters be allowed to attend and participate in Step-up Day at Chester-Andover if by chance he does not settle in Chester as a resident. Ginger made motion to allow Mr. Martorano’s children to participate in Step-up Day at Chester-Andover. Board approved.
David then asked the board for suggestions regarding the Chester-Andover Mission Statement. Ginger asked that the word will be taken out of the first sentence so it states “we build”. Board thought the rest of the statement looked okay.
Joan asked about the contracts for her office staff and custodians. David said they have been signed and distributed.
Joan asked if the June 27th meeting is a special meeting. Betsy said it is in lieu of a July meeting.
Joan said her last day in the office would be June 24, 2011.
Betsy asked that the board go back to items 2 and 3 on the agenda:
#2 – Approval of Minutes of May 2, 2011 –
#3 – Approval of Minutes of May 26, 2011 – Jeff made motion to approve minutes of May 2nd and May 26th as presented. Board approved.
The board then went to #6 –
Chester-Andover Board Minutes June 6, 2011 Page 4
#6 – Technology Report – David explained that the Technology line item had gone over in the budget but that money had been recouped from the sale of old inventory and there
is a request to use the money recouped for Technology and the purchase of I Pads. Lauren said this money is in the general fund but in a separate technology line. David said that if the money is not spent by June 30, 2011 it will be carried forward and we won’t have a chance to use the money for purchases within this fiscal year. Lauren Baker said they are trying to give sufficient access to students to all the technology sources available. She said I Pads are very powerful tools for accessing the web and are great tools for personal support. She said they are great tools for putting the right information in front of the right student at the right time. Lauren said they are trying to provide the tools for all students in all schools to move towards 1:1 computing. Another
factor is the I Pad is cheaper than laptops and do not require as much technical support. Much discussion took place. Meredith said that if this money is not spent in time for June 30th delivery then it would have to wait until next year’s budget to be spent. Ginger felt the I Pads should be purchased to give kids access to using them especially since Green Mountain is going to be using I Pads. Ginger made motion to authorize the use of the $8,000.00 + tech revenue at the discretion of the Technology Director to support the educational needs of the staff and students at Chester-Andover Elementary School. Board approved.
Other Business – None.
Executive Session – Ginger made motion to enter Executive Session for personnel at 6:44 p.m. and to invite the administration to participate in this discussion.
Meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m. with no further action taken.
Respectfully submitted,
Janet Currier
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
May 26, 2011 8:30 a.m.
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Phillisa Jones-Prescott -Vice Chair, Betsy Hart , Ginger Roper and Jeff Hance
Administration: David Adams-Superintendent
Public/Staff: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m.
Personnel
Resignations
David explained how the music department was reduced and now there is a .2 position open because Polly Westcott accepted a position for .2 at CTES which leaves a vacancy of .2 FTE at CAES. Cindy Austin has recall rights. Discussion ensued regarding the need for this position. David is recommending the board recall the .2 position. Discussion ensued regarding what the music department should look like. David said he will ask Scott for a report on the needs for music. The board agreed to postpone the music recall until the next meeting.
David recommends the board accept Polly Westcott’s .2 FTE resignation. The Board approved Polly’s .2 FTE resignation.
David said he received a resignation letter from Steve Sanderson, CAES Custodian.
Phillisa made a motion to accept the resignation from Steve Sanderson as CAES Custodian with many thanks and appreciation. Motion approved.
Nomination
David recommended Paul Martorano be appointed as the new K-6 grade teacher for the 2011-2012 school year. David gave the board background on Mr. Martorano. Discussion ensued. Betsy made a motion to hire Paul Martorano as a CAES K-6 grade teacher for the 2011-2012 school year at a salary of $44,008.00 pending certification and background checks. Motion approved.
The next meeting will be June 6th. Items for the next agenda will be: music program report; the music recall; technology grant presentation; ask Paul to attend the meeting; Federal Jobs Bill report; the reduction in enrollment.
David asked the board to consider a proposal from Lauren Baker to purchase IPads. Discussion ensued regarding technology equipment. David reported that Lauren recouped about $8,000.00 by disposing of equipment; she is asking to purchase Ipads for teachers to use in classrooms. Discussion ensued regarding the need for the Ipads and how the Ipads would be used. David said training for the teachers is important. Ginger asked about student response systems for the SmartBoard. David said Green Mountain is talking about these devises. The IPads are intended for classroom use. David said he would support setting up a lab. He doesn’t think the IPad duplicates a laptop. David will invite Lauren to the next meeting.
David spoke to the board regarding the discussion of not merging the two SU’s but eliminating both of them and creating a new S.U.
June 7th at 7:00 p.m. at CTES there will be a meeting with the two S.U.s. The commissioner of education will be attending this meeting.
Adjournment
Ginger made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 2:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
Monday, May 2, 2011, 5:30 p.m.
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Phillisa Jones-Prescott-Vice Chair, and Jeff Hance
Administration: Joan Nagle-Principal and David P. Adams-Superintendent
Public/Staff: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Kathy Cherubini, Elise Lisle, Jeanie Phillips, Vanissa White, Michelle Robidoux and Rachel Spengler.
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of April 4, 2011
Phillisa made a motion to approve the minutes of April 4, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
Technology Grant Presentations
Elise and Jeanie gave a presentation on the Title II Technology Grant CAES received. A Smart Board was purchased with 70% of the funds. Jeanie talked about Arts Grade Expectations. The teachers took what the children are learning with the Red Clover books in their Library classes, and incorporated it into their Art and P.E. classes.
Jeanie and Elise talked about some of the lessons learned with the SmartBoard: It engages students; the class Jeanie took was crucial; planning is essential; an audience adds excitement; collaboration is catchy. The board thanked Jeanie and Elise for the presentation.
Joan read a letter from the Kindergarten teachers who reported 4 ipods were purchased for the Kindergarten which they use on a weekly basis and they feel the ipods are very useful in reading.
Election of Supervisory Union Representatives
Wendy said the board needs official representatives for the full supervisory union meetings. Phillisa made a motion to nominate Betsy Hart and Wendy Baker to the supervisory union board. Motion approved.
Jeff made a motion to nominate Phillisa Jones Prescott as a representative to the supervisory union board. Motion approved.
Personnel
Nominations
Co-curricular Flag Group
1:1 Special Education Para
3/4 Grade Teacher
David presented the board with nominations for Ann Cassels as a Special Ed Para professional for an hourly rate of $12.56 and nominate Julie Kelly as the Flags Director at a salary of $545.00. Phillisa made a motion to approve hiring Ann Cassels as a Special Ed Para professional at an hourly rate of $12.56 and Julie Kelly as the Flags Director at a salary of $545.00. Motion approved.
David said they have candidates for the 3/4 position but have not completed the background checks and he asked the board to have another meeting in May to hire the new teacher. The board agreed.
Resignation of Para Educator
David recommends the board accept the resignation letter from Amy Brunner. Phillisa made a motion to accept Amy Brunner’s resignation. Motion approved.
Request for Additional Health Insurance Premium Reimbursement
The board agreed to table this item until after executive session.
Committee Reports
Facilities
David said Jim has done all of the bid specs for the projects. He does not have a status report tonight but should have one at the next meeting.
Policies
Phillisa submitted the following policies for first reads. She said these policies were looked at but were not changed just updated. She waived the reading of the policies:
• F-16 Admission of Resident Students – First Read
• F-16:1 Admission of Resident Students – First Read to Rescind
• F-17 Admission of Non-Resident Tuition Students – First Read to Amend
• F-17:1 In District Tuition Student – First Read to Rescind
WSWSU Executive Board
Phillisa reported the mountain towns are requesting an extra vote if they create a RED. This will be discussed at the semi annual meeting on Wednesday, May 4th at 6:30 p.m. at GMUHS. David said Flood Brook and the mountain towns are asking for 8 votes based on enrollment when the other boards’ votes are based on being an operating board or a non operating board.
Principal Report
Teacher Enrollment Request in accordance with policy F-14
Joan said Kathy Cherubini is requesting her child be accepted to CAES for the next school year. Phillisa made a motion to allow Mrs. Cherubini’s son to enroll in Kindergarten at CAES for the 2011-2012 school year in accordance with the CAES F-14 policy. Motion approved.
Joan said the first, second, third, and fourth graders made May Day baskets for shut-ins and the elderly. Joan went with some of the students to deliver the baskets. She said she had a wonderful time.
She reported May 12th and 13th is the Kindergarten screening.
Superintendent Report
David asked the board to consider changing the tuition policy dates of determining the tuition rate and announce it by January 15th. David explained the state requires the tuition rates be reported by January 15th.
David thanked the teachers who received and applied for the grants. He said the kids are for the better for it.
David reminded the board of the Act 153 training on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. at GMUHS. The act is being integrated into existing law and Steve Stitzel, Attorney, will be presenting. The State of the District Report will be presented at the board meeting on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at GMUHS.
David discussed the governance meetings that have been taking place with surrounding supervisory unions. David said they are having another meeting on June 8th or 9th.
David recognized Scott Gray who has been appointed as the CAES principal beginning July 1st.
Other Business
Wendy congratulated the Grateful Garden committee for the grant they received.
David asked if the chair and he can meet to come up with a date for the special meeting. The board agreed.
Executive Session
Phillisa made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel. The board invited Scott and the administration. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 7:43 p.m. Phillisa made a motion to deny the request for additional compensation for health insurance premiums. Motion approved.
Adjournment
Phillisa made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
Monday, April 4, 2011, 5:30 p.m.
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Phillisa Jones-Prescott-Vice Chair, Betsy Hart and Jeff Hance
Administration: Joan Nagle-Principal and David P. Adams-Superintendent
Public/Staff: SAPA-TV, Jana Wunderle, Carrie King, Michelle Robidoux, Kathy Martens, Wendy Svec, Frank Kelley, Leo Graham, and Lauren Baker
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of March 10, 2011
Phillisa made a motion to approve the minutes of March 10, 2011 as presented. Correction: Change Michelle Robidoux’s name from “administration” to “staff present”. Motion approved.
Grateful Garden Update
Carrie King and Jana Wunderle gave a presentation on the Grateful Garden. They applied for a $1,000.00 grant to provide infrastructure for the garden; they will find out if they will get the grant next week. The objective is to protect growth. They handed out information on the growth of the garden, the budget, and information on why a garden is beneficial to a school community. They described how the garden is started with help from each child in school. There are plans to erect a fence to protect the garden. They are working on a plan depending on money raised to expand to include community plots. Discussion ensued; Phillisa asked for details about the fencing. David asked if any provisions were made regarding zoning or regulations about fencing.
Board Retreat – (Date(s))
The board discussed dates for the board retreat. The board agreed to meet on May 26th with the times to be determined.
Committee Reports
Facilities
David reported that Jim Spaulding is compiling estimates and information on future projects (Chimney, burner replacement, cafeteria floor and table replacement).
Policy
Family Medical Leave Act D:13
Phillisa recommended the FMLA, D: 13, policy be adopted. Phillisa made a motion to adopt the FMLA, D:13, policy as presented. Motion approved.
WSWSU Executive Board
No report. This item will be on a future agenda.
Principal Report
Joan reported they are planning kindergarten registration; she commented on the great quality of the pre-school program at GMUHS. Joan spoke about the district in-service on gender performance. The fire drill with the new system was “interesting”; a number of ideas came out of it. They have new plans for trying to build a safety plan that is an improvement over the existing plan. Joan asked whether library media specialist, Jeanie Phillips could present at a future meeting to report on the grant. The kindergarten teachers want to report on the use of the IPOD Touch in their classrooms.
The next board meeting will be May 2, 2011 at 5:30 p.m.
Joan presented the winter sports program reports from the directors of the activities; improvements were made to the program and they were successful.
Superintendent Report
David presented the school calendar for next year. He explained that the schedule is coordinated with the other schools and the tech centers. He discussed the teacher’s professional development during the winter sports days and how productive they were.
David reported the Annual Yearly Progress (AYP) for CAES was not met; he would like to come back in May with Joan to expand on what it means to the health of our school. He explained that expectations changed and increased, therefore making it more difficult to reach AYP. He emphasized that this is not an excuse for why we didn’t achieve AYP, just an explanation. David explained there is a plan in place to strategize for maximum outcome in writing and math. He will have more information in May. Phillisa asked about the change of criteria; annual measurable growth. Discussion ensued.
Leo Graham reported on statistics of No Child Left Behind. Michelle Robidoux said there were 118 more schools not making AYP for the first time with the new criteria.
Other Business
Jeff made a motion for a support staff reduction in force per contract negotiations. Motion approved.
Executive Session
Phillisa made a motion to go into executive session at 6:30 p.m. to discuss personnel. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 6:58 p.m.
Appointment of Principal
David said he is recommending Scott Gray for the CAES Principal for the 2011-2013 school years with a first year salary of $75,824.00. Betsy made a motion to hire Scott Gray as the CAES Principal as presented. Motion approved.
Adjournment
Phillisa made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:03 p.m.
*Notes taken by Betsy Hart
*Transcribed by Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
Thursday, March 10, 2011, 7:00 p.m.
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Phillisa Jones-Prescott, and Betsy Hart
Administration: Joan Nagle-Principal and David P. Adams-Superintendent, Lauren Baker-Director of Technology and Integrated Instruction
Public/Staff: SAPA, TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Rachel Spengler and Michelle Robidoux
Call to Order
David called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.
Board Reorganization
David asked for nominations for board chair. Phillisa made a motion to nominate Wendy Baker as board chair. Betsy seconded. Motion approved. David then turned the meeting over to Wendy.
Wendy respectfully asked for a moment of silence for the student that passed away earlier this week.
Betsy nominated Phillisa as Vice Chair. Motion approved.
Phillisa nominated Betsy for Board Clerk. Motion approved.
Phillisa made a motion to set the date and time of the board meetings on the first Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m. in the CAES Library. Motion approved.
CAES Board Director Recommendation
Wendy said there were no candidates for the open board member seat.
The board will notify the Chester Town School Board and they will send out a notice asking for interested candidates to serve on the CAES board.
Grateful Garden Update
This update will be tabled until the next meeting.
Budget Vote Review
The board thanked the voters for their support of the budget and the capitol improvement fund.
Board Retreat
Wendy suggested the board come into the school and hold their retreat here and have a tour of the building and have lunch with the students. This would give the board an opportunity to get an understanding of the school. Phillisa suggested they have time to process what they learned at the retreat.
Approval of Minutes of February 7, 2011
Betsy made a motion to approve the minutes of February 7, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
Personnel-Teacher Retirement Letters
David reported with regret he has received letters of retirement. Eileen Dulmer is retiring at the end of the school year and Toby Treu is planning on retiring at the end of the FY’12 school year. Betsy made motion to accept the retirement letters from Eileen Dulmer and Toby Treu with sincere regret. Motion approved.
Reduction In Force
There was a budgetary decision to reduce a music position. Phillisa made a motion to reduce a music position from a .5 to a .2 which is a .3 reduction. Motion approved.
Tuition Request Letters
David reported there are two requests for students to attend CAES.
Policy does not allow students to be enrolled at CAES that are not part of the WSWSU.
Rachel Spangler asked the board to enroll her son in CAES. She has not been able to enroll her son in preschool because of personal reasons; she works in Springfield and her son’s care givers live in Chester; they would be bringing him to school.
She is asking the board for an exception to their policy to allow her son to attend CAES. She is willing to pay tuition or additional dollars they may request. She said her son does not have special needs. David said the difficulty the board has is that they have a policy; they can review the policy. Phillisa said the board would have to change the policy. David said the policy committee can meet and review this. The policy committee can determine if they want to allow out of district tuition students.
Rachel said her attorney suggested she appoint a co-guardian. She asked if that would help her request. The board informed Rachel the state of Vermont does not allow guardianship for the sole purpose of a child attending a particular school.
Committee Reports
Facilities
David reported they are working toward a Request for Proposal for the chimney repair. David suggested the facilities committee start talking about the repairs. Phillisa suggested the facilities committee should agree to a regularly scheduled meeting. The facilities committee agreed to meet Wednesday, March 16th, 7:30 a.m. at CAES. Joan said the interior fire alarm system was replaced over vacation; some of the outdoor fire alarm equipment will be installed as soon as the parts arrive.
Policy
Family Medical Leave Act – First Read
Harassment of Employees – Second Read
Volunteers and Work Study Students – Second Read
Phillisa said the Family Medical Leave Act Policy is a required policy. The board waived the reading of the policy.
Phillisa said she is asking for the adoption of the Harassment of Employees and the Volunteers and Work Study Students Policies. Phillisa made a motion to adopt the Harassment of Employees and the Volunteers and Work Study Students Policies as presented. Motion approved.
WSWSU Executive Board
Phillisa said the full S.U. meetings will be held on the third Wednesday in January and the First Wednesday in May. The board will need to elect three board members to represent CAES at the S.U. full board meetings. Phillisa said the Regional Educational Districts are still being discussed.
Principal Report
Joan said she would like to publicly thank David and her staff for the support during the tragedy this week. David said the CAES team should be thanked.
Phillisa asked that the board evaluate how the crisis plan worked. Joan said the team met and have talked about what worked and didn’t work.
Superintendent Report
David said they have had six snow days so far this year; school closing is a collaborative effort and David said they will not announce the last day of school yet.
Legislative Update: The legislature is working on the single payer health bill; The House has rescinded the two vote bill and the Senate is expected to approve it; The Legislature is considering the Commissioner of Education position become a Secretary of Education position as a cabinet member. David said the next budget year is going to be a difficult one.
Principal Search:
David handed out a Principal search packet. He talked about the overview of the process for community and staff input. David asked the board about candidate visits to the school and their availability for the visits; the board agreed the visits will take place the week of March 21st.
Other Business
Betsy said as a parent the job the staff did this week was phenomenal; she said they should be commended.
Executive Session-Personnel
None
Adjournment
Phillisa made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:08 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
Monday, February 7, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Ginger Roper, Betsy Hart, and Jeff Hance
Administration: Joan Nagle-Principal, David P. Adams-Superintendent, Meredith Austin-Business Manager
Public/Staff: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Toby Treu, Michelle Robidoux, Ellen Ferro, Polly Westcott and Angela Hutchins
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:01 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of January 3, 2011 and January 24, 2011
Betsy made a motion to approve the minutes of January 3, and January 24, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
Financial Audit Report from Auditors
Meredith introduced Don Murray from Fothergill, Segale & Valley Certified Public Accountants. Don went over the 2009-2010 audit with the board along with the management letter which includes suggestions to the business office. Discussion: charts of accounts, budget adjustments. This is a satisfactory budget; Don said CAES is fiscally sound.
Ginger made a motion to accept the 2009-2010 audit as presented. Motion approved.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Joan reported: The facilities committee met on 1/19 and the electrical work in the kitchen was discussed; Jim said the electrical issue in the kitchen has been fixed. A cover also needs to be built around the electrical wires in the kitchen. The alarm system is being updated during the February vacation. The kitchen floor and the multipurpose floor should be replaced at the same time. The town has established a new ordinance on businesses that discharge grease and like substances.
Jim has received conflicting recommendations regarding the asbestos in the multipurpose room floor tiles. Jim is speaking to someone to give a better idea of what they should do with the floor. The phase I energy audit walk-through report will be here by the next board meeting.
Policy
Family Medical Leave Act – David said this will go on the next agenda for a first read.
Harassment of Employees-First Read
Volunteers and Work Study Students – First Read
WSWSU Executive Board
None
Sped Team Leader Nomination
David recommended Alicia Currie as the CAES Special Ed Team Leader for the current school year. Betsy made a motion to approve the team leader nomination as presented. Motion approved.
Principal Search
David said he has received 15 applications for the principal position posting which is now closed. David handed out two options for the principal search (attached); both of which contain committees. David said option two is more streamlined. He explained to the board that the Principal selection is an important decision that requires a thoughtful process and since the position requires close interaction with the community, teachers and staff the decision cannot be made in a vacuum. Staff and community involvement is important and necessary in the selection process. Wendy said by statute it is the superintendent’s responsibility to bring a qualified candidate to the board for hiring, so she feels that option two is her preference; Ginger agreed; this option allows the superintendent to make
the decisions. The whole board agreed to option two.
Ellen said she thinks the board should think twice before making this decision. She said she didn’t think streamlining the hiring process is the best way to go. Toby said the process in the past has worked very well for CAES; she thinks the community as well as the staff should be involved in the hiring process. Polly said she would like a relationship of trust and communication with a new principal. Betsy said she thinks there should be a forum with the staff and community so they can express what characteristics they would like to see in a principal. David agreed. Angela asked how the staff member would be chosen. David said he would like to address the faculty directly and make sure the understanding is that this will be an advisory role.
Ginger made a motion for David to use option two as outlined in the principal search attachment. Motion approved.
Principal Report
Joan reported under facility report.
Superintendent Report
The commissioner is in the hospital from a fall and David said they are all “plugging” for him. Because of the competitive grants participation the S.U. has been asked to participate in a labor management conference for student achievement; Alison, David, and Jenn Harper will attend the conference in Denver next week, expenses paid. David will also be attending the Superintendent’s conference for the remainder of the week.
Other Business
None
Executive Session
Betsy made a motion to go into executive session at 6:10 p.m. to discuss personnel; the board invited David to attend. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 6:37 p.m. No action taken.
Adjournment
Jeff made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
Monday, January 24, 2011, 8:00 a.m.
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Ginger Roper, Phillisa Jones-Prescott, and Jeff Hance
Administration: Joan Nagle-Principal and David P. Adams-Superintendent
Public/Staff: Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 8:10 a.m.
Approval of Warning of Annual Meeting on February 24, 2011
Wendy said this warning will require the majority of the board’s signatures.
Phillisa made a motion to approve the warning for the annual meeting on February 24, 2011 as presented. David went over the articles. Motion approved.
Approval of Warning to vote by Australian Ballot
David went over the articles. Phillisa made a motion to approve the warning as presented. Motion approved.
Approval of Warning of Public Information Hearing on February 24, 2011
Ginger made a motion to approve the warning of the public information hearing as presented. Discussion ensued regarding the date of the hearing. David is going to recommend next year the annual meeting and the public information meeting be warned together. Motion approved.
Other Business
The board talked about who will attend the WSWSU semi annual meeting on Wednesday. David went over the facility needs. Discussion ensued regarding the electrical upgrade to the kitchen and the kitchen floor replacement; the asbestos currently in the existing kitchen tiles. The facilities committee will discuss this at their next meeting. The board agreed to meet at 5:00 p.m. on February 7th.
David asked the board if they are interested in an advisory committee for the principal position. Discussion ensued regarding alternatives to an advisory committee.
Joan said last year the faculty received a number of technology grants and they would like to give a presentation to the board for each of the grants. The board agreed to have the presentations in March and April for fifteen to twenty minutes each. Joan talked about the use of I Pads in Kindergarten; the board said they would like to hear more about this.
Adjournment
Ginger made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 9:01 a.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Minutes
Monday, January 3, 2011, 5:30 p.m.
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Ginger Roper, and Jeff Hance
Administration: Joan Nagle-Principal and David P. Adams-Superintendent
Public/Staff: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Michelle Robidoux, Frank Kelley, Marilyn Mahusky, Tonia Fleming, Kathy Martens, Lauren Baker, and Polly Westcott
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Approval of minutes of December 6, 2010
Jeff made a motion to approve the minutes of December 6, 2010 as presented.
Corrections: The Vermont Symphony Orchestra should be capitalized and under the annual report; line one should read board not boards. Motion approved with corrections.
Budget Adoption
David reported the budget is at $3,649,327.00. The proposed budget has an education spending reduction of 3.1%.
David went over the changes in the budget (memo attached). This budget exceeds the boards’ goal of a 1.4% increase in expenditures. Overall the FY12 budget compared to FY11 is 0.31% less. Discussion ensued. Ginger made a motion to approve the 2011-2012 CAES budget as presented. Discussion: the possibility of putting the Para professional and Music back into the budget. David said they are level funding the budget right now and the forecast for the state education fund will have a shortfall. David recommends this budget in light of the recession we are in and prepare for the additional cuts that will need to take place in the future. David said the board could restore items back in the budget but it will be at a cost. Marilyn asked if the board considered all non
instructional costs; making commitments to reducing transportation and food service. David said transportation has been thoroughly looked at by the board. There is a 4% reduction in food service; operations and maintenance were reduced by 4% also. David said the music program has been brought back from .6 to 1.0. Tonia said by making so many cuts this year how are we going to meet more cuts next year. David said the reduction is less than a third of a percent. David said it is up to the board to decide if they want to discuss the budget more. Michelle said she heard at the last meeting that if at all possible the Para professional position be put back in the budget. Board members did not recall this. David thanked the budget committee and audience participants for their contributions to the budget process.
Joan said students will be attending the Keewaydin program next year. The program will need a fulltime nurse to attend next year to accommodate some of the students attending. She is asking the board to put $870.00 back in the budget for a nurse so these children can attend the program. Ginger made a motion to amend her previous motion to include the $870.00 in the budget under the substitute line. The budget amount is $3,650,197.00. Motion approved. The board agreed to meet on January 24th at 8:00 a.m. at the S.U.
Reports
Policy Committee Report
None
Optimum Class Size Policy-2nd Read
Ginger made a motion to approve the policy as presented. Motion approved.
WSWSU Executive Committee Update
None
Facilities Report
This item is tabled until the next meeting.
Energy Audit Draft
This item is tabled until the next meeting.
Appointment of Treasurer
Wendy said they have a letter of interest from Alison DesLauriers for the treasurer position until the election in March. Ginger made a motion to appoint Alison DesLauriers as the CAES Treasurer. Motion approved.
Warrant Authorization
David said to be consistent with statute the signers need to be identified. Ginger thought there should be a majority of board members to sign the warrants. This will be added to the next agenda for discussion.
Principals Report
Joan said Sue Bigam came and worked with the 3-4 teachers on vocabulary. She worked with the 5-6 teachers on constructive responses.
Winter sports will free up teachers for more in-service work. Ann Thompson is going to work with the teachers for four afternoons on writing and one afternoon on math. The GEO Bee is this Friday at 8:30 a.m.
Superintendents Report
David reported the information from the Governor elect’s office will accept the federal jobs dollars from the federal government. The guidelines to receive the grant will be followed. The state Challenges for Change target was not met.
Principal Search
David reported they are prepared to post the principal position on School Spring which is an electronic posting. It is a cost effective way of posting school positions. The board agreed to have the position posted on School Spring.
Comments from the Community
None
Executive Session
Ginger made a motion to go into executive session at 6:35 p.m. to discuss negotiations. David was invited. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 6:53 p.m.
No action taken.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Jeff made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:53 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
Memorandum
To: Chester- Andover School Board
From: Meredith Austin
Date: 22 December 2010
Re: CAES Proposed FY 2012 Budget
Enclosed you will find the current version of the CAES Proposed FY 2012 Budget. An adjustment has been made following the last board meeting to reflect anticipated time in the classroom and anticipated duty time for all paraprofessionals. The total expenditures of $3,649,327 reflects an overall reduction in spending from the current year budget of 0.31% . This level of spending requires education spending of $2,848,937, a 3.11% reduction from the FY ’11 level. The total reduction in education spending is the result of the reduced expenditures as well as an increase of $44,627 in local revenues over the FY ’11 figures and an increase from the FY ’11 budgeted fund balance of $35,461.
This budget provides for:
- 1 FTE in the music program
- Removal of duplicated expense in the support services section (lines 62-65)
- One less paraprofessional in regular education
- All paraprofessionals budgeted at seven hours per day split between direct student support and duties
- Reduction in cost of benefits based on individual change requests
- The Special Programs Coordinator is retained at the current year service level
- Co-curricular is reduced by $2,536.
At the last board meeting it was agreed to make the changes as discussed and present a budget with no more than a 1.4% increase. This budget exceeds that goal.
Chester Andover Elementary School
Chester-Andover Elementary School Board Meeting
Monday, December 6, 2010 5:30 p.m.
Chester Andover Elementary School - Library
Present
Board: Wendy Baker-Chair, Phillisa Jones Prescott, Ginger Roper, Jeff Hance
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent, Joan Nagle-Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager
Public: SAPA TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Lauren Baker, Vanissa White, Cindy Austin, Peggy Roberts, Tonia Fleming, Polly Westcott, Michelle Robidoux , Maggie Arlund, Marilyn Mahusky, and Kathy Martens
Call to Order
Wendy called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of November 15, 2010
Phillisa made a motion to approve the minutes of November 15, 2010 as presented. Correction: Under Budget Reduction Target-Cindy Cole asked about the paraprofessional time. Motion approved with correction.
Budget
David handed out the table of options prepared at the direction of the finance committee (Attached). David explained the association between education spending and the equalized per pupil spending. Discussion ensued regarding student teacher ratio. The board is discussing level funding and a 1% reduction. The commissioner is requesting the dollar amount of a reduction if the board decides on one. Marilyn asked who was on the finance committee. Finance committee members are Betsy and Wendy. Marilyn said the budget committee members are a little frustrated with the consistency of the finance committee members; the process has not been as “smooth” as it could be. Vanissa asked about the transportation option. David said there would be no savings in transportation. The
administration is not making any transportation recommendations at this time. The options listed are the recommendations from the finance committee for a 1% reduction in the budget. Ginger said she would like to see Option 3-RIF one Regular Ed Para. Vanissa asked about the school counselor and curriculum cost in the budget. Meredith said there is a duplication in the support services-general section and there is an opportunity for savings in supplies; there is a potential $8,000 savings. The increase in speech was discussed. David said it has been reviewed and there is a projected student need. Kathy Martens asked about the four regular ed paras and where their total costs are in the budget. David explained the paras time was increased this year to seven and one half hours. The proposed budget reflects a reduction back to seven hours. The administration will look at the paras and support services lines in the budget to see if
dollars have been added twice. Tonia asked about lines 77 and 78. It looks like there could be a savings; the actual spending was historically less. David said some of the cost is contractual even if it isn’t used. The board agreed to keep the budget at a 1.4% overall increase. The board agreed to have a discussion in the future regarding transportation. The board agreed to: Music remaining at 1.0 FTE, and a 1.4 % overall budget increase. David said he appreciates the work the finance and budget committees have done.
Reports
WSWSU Executive Committee Update
Phillisa reported the curriculum management policy continues to be discussed. The policy committee is recommending it be adopted. The statute has changed and this is now a S.U. responsibility. Phillisa thinks the policy will be adopted at the next executive committee meeting.
Policy Committee Update
Optimum Class Size – First Read
This policy is required by January 15th. Any recommendations this board has Phillisa will bring to the next policy committee meeting. The FMLA policy was discussed; the committee is continuing to work on it.
Principal
Joan reported CAES had parent teacher conferences with 94% attendance; the kitchen served 300 turkey dinners for the Thanksgiving Lunch; the Vermont symphony orchestra gave a great percussion instrument presentation; Joan attended a co teaching conference which will be discussed in the future.
Joan said the administrators have met regarding truancy and created a procedure for the towns. Joan said she met with parents regarding tardiness. She would like to look at tardiness patterns and not just the 5, 6 and 7 days tardy. She is focusing on larger number of days of tardiness. Discussion ensued regarding procedures.
Superintendent
Act 146 Challenge for Change Report to Commissioner
David said he will send the report to the commissioner with the dollar amounts agreed to by the board.
Annual Reports
David said the boards cannot change the way the annual reports are distributed without an article that the voters vote on. He is asking the board to consider a possible alternative. This would not go into effect until 2012. Marilyn said this was an issue at the Chester Town meeting last year and the voters wanted their reports. David also asked the board if they would consider a modified report being mailed and having a complete version available. The board agreed to leave the book as it for this current year.
County Wide Truancy Protocol
David explained the county wide procedures to reduce truancy. He said students are required to attend school. The commissioner recommended there be a county wide protocol. The problem is the definition of tardiness. The system is designed to have family intervention. When the school defines tardiness there are a series of letters that are sent with actions to be taken. David said truancy needs to be looked at again. David handed out and went over a truancy form checklist, and the truancy response protocol with the board. He said we can create a local definition of “Tardy”. He expressed the need to communicate the importance of being ready for learning.
Nominations
The board agreed to move this agenda item to number 3.
Special Education Paraprofessional
David gave the board a nomination form to hire Karen Knisely as a paraprofessional for a student from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Phillisa made a motion to approve hiring Karen Knisley as a 1:1 para professional as presented. Motion approved.
Winter Sports Program Advisors
David presented nomination forms for the following winter sports program directors: Amy Brunner-Ice Skating Director $394.00, Angela Markwell-Bowling Dirctor $394.00, Gary Baker, -Alpine Skiing Director $758.00, Kathy Harrigan-Alpine Skiing Director $758.00, Rena Gordon-Kindergarten Program Director $394.00, and Laurie Scott-Swimming Director $394. Phillisa made a motion to approve the winter sports appointments as presented. Motion approved.
Resignation of School District Treasurer
Wendy reported Pat Saul has resigned as the school district treasurer. Jeff made a motion to approve Pat Saul’s resignation. Motion approved.
Appointment of School District Treasurer
David said the board can appoint a treasurer or have a special election. Someone can be appointed now until the election in March. The board would like letters of interest for this position. Discussion ensued. There is a process in place for a second signer to allow payroll and warrants to be signed. Phillisa made a motion to request from the general public a letter of interest for the school district treasurer position to include background information to the board by December 23rd; letters to be sent to the central office. Discussion ensued. Motion approved.
Warrant Authorization
Phillisa said she thinks there should be more than one signer on the warrants. Discussion ensued regarding how and when the warrants will be signed. Phillisa made a motion to require two signatures for warrants from any board member. Motion approved.
Comments from the Community
None
Executive Session
Phillsa made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel at 7:32 p.m.; David was invited. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 8:06 p.m. Jeff made a motion to approve Joan Nagle’s resignation. Motion approved.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Jeff made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
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