The School Board of Escambia County, Florida, convened in Workshop Meeting at 9:13 a.m., in the Board Room at the Administrative Building, 215 West Garden Street, with the following present:

Chairman: Mrs. Cary Stidham Vice Chairman: Dr. John DeWitt

Members: Dr. Elmer Jenkins (entered the workshop at 9:34 a.m.)

Dr. Hal Mason

Mrs. Vanette Webb

School Board Attorney: Mr. Francisco Negron

Superintendent of Schools: Mr. Jim May

I. CALL TO ORDER

Chairman Stidham called the workshop to order at 9:13 a.m.

II. COMMENTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT

The Superintendent announced that the start of the workshop was delayed due to a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony which was held this morning to commemorate the opening of the new Blue Angels Elementary School. Mr. May listed additions and deletions to the agenda.

III. PROPOSED ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO SCHOOL DISTRICT RULES

A. Permission to Advertise

1. School Board Rule 6Gx17-3.13(7) COMPETITIVE FOOD AND BEVERAGE SALES

Dr. Mason requested explanation as to why this rule was not brought to the Board earlier. Mr. James Bentley, Director of School Food Services, advised that this was noted in the Auditor General's Report, and the rule brings the district in line with State law. Ms. Patricia Wascom, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Business Affairs, verified that the Auditor General's Report was received on June 30, 2000.

IV. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Mr. May thanked the Board for holding the workshop today rather than on Monday, August 14, 2000, which is the first day of school.

V. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD

1. Authorize the Escambia Charter School to Require Twenty-Four (24) Credits for Graduation for Issuance of a Standard Diploma, per State Graduation Requirements, rather than the District's Required Twenty-Eight Credits (28) - John DeWitt

Dr. Mason inquired concerning compliance with State law. Dr. DeWitt commented that State law requires 24 credits for graduation, and Mr. Stan Callendar, Director of Escambia Charter School, had requested that this issue be presented to the Board for discussion.

The Board recognized the following speakers:

1) Mr. Charles Thomas, Director of Alternative Education, stated that staff had met with Mr. Callendar in February regarding the opportunity for charter school students to receive an adult high school diploma (based on 24 credits), opposed to a regular high school diploma (based on 28 credits), and realized the district had in place a vehicle to provide a 24-credit opportunity as an adult high school diploma. It was noted that representatives from the Pensacola Academy for Success and the Ruby Gainer Charter Schools also expressed support for providing the 24-credit opportunity for their students.

2) Dr. Robin Largue, Director of Secondary Education, advised that a 24-credit adult diploma is already provided for in district policy as outlined in the Pupil Progression Plan.

3) Mr. Tommy Taylor, Director of Applied Technology and Adult Education, provided clarification concerning the adult program and the adult high school diploma option.

Dr. Mason requested that staff provide a longitudinal study of student success, as well as a data-driven needs assessment. Mrs. Webb requested that quarterly reports also be provided. Mr. Thomas stated that staff will provide copies of the quarterly reports to the Board. Dr. Jenkins noted that the Citizens' Advisory Committee (CAC) for Curriculum had addressed this issue and concurred with providing the 24-hour opportunity as outlined in district policy. He added that the core courses required by the State are the same as those required on a 28-credit schedule. Mrs. Webb stated that all of the high schools in the district were graded "C" schools, and she suggested that comparative data be obtained from other districts where high schools have 24-hour credit policies to determine how those high schools are graded.

2. Student Expulsion Due Process Committee - Hal Mason

Dr. Mason expressed his concern that due process would be further enhanced if the committee membership was expanded to add a representative from the community and a student. He stated that he intends to present that proposal at the Board Meeting. Mr. Darriel White, Court Liaison, explained due process procedures, and he expressed concerns that Dr. Mason's proposal to involve a parent and a student could violate student confidentiality issues. Dr. Jenkins questioned the method to be used for selection of community representatives, and he also expressed concerns about maintaining confidentiality of student records. Dr. Mason suggested that each Board Member could nominate two members of the community, and he added that confidentiality training would have to be addressed. After discussion, the Board Attorney voiced concerns that Florida Statutes prohibit the disclosure (to the public) of personally identifiable information regarding any student, as would be seen and discussed in the informal review process.

3. Increasing Maximum Amount Not Requiring Board Approval for Purchases - Hal Mason

Dr. Mason emphasized the Board's responsibility to the taxpayers for oversight, and he spoke in support of changing Board policy to reflect $10,000 or $15,000 (as the maximum amount not requiring Board approval for purchases) rather than $25,000 which the State currently allows. Mr. Barry Boyer, Director of Purchasing, advised that setting the limit too low could incur delays in terms of delivery of services to schools. After discussion, the Board Attorney advised that the purchase limit (without bid) is $25,000, and the Board would have to advertise a notice of proposed change to the School Board Rule. Dr. Mason asked if the Superintendent would consent to keep the status quo (at $15,000) until the overall (comprehensive) School District Policy update is addressed, and Mr. May concurred. After discussion, the Board Attorney asked that Mr. Boyer confer with him in order to provide additional information to the Board.

4. Development of School District Policies - Hal Mason

Dr. Mason expressed his concern regarding problems and inconsistencies due to lack of policy, and he spoke in favor of hiring a consultant to address development of School District Policies. Chairman Stidham stated that she had received an E-Mail from a member of the Citizens' Advisory Committee (CAC) for Finance, who suggested that each department could revamp policies related to their area, rather than hiring a consultant. Dr. Mason stated that he had no problem with departments doing that; however, input should be obtained from the Board and perhaps the Citizens' Advisory Committee (CAC) for Technology. Dr. Jenkins asked if the proposal involved rewriting the entire policy manual, and Dr. Mason stated that was his proposal. Dr. DeWitt suggested dividing the policy manual up into five sections, with each Board Member to appoint a committee to address each section and come back to the full Board with recommendations. Mrs. Webb suggested providing each department with a copy of the Florida School Board Rules that apply to their area. Mr. May asked that any proposed staff assignments come through the Superintendent.

The Board recognized the following speaker:

Ms. Ellen Lawrence, UniServ Director, Escambia Education Association, asked that the Board include bargaining agents related to contract issues.

6. Update on Building Status of Current Building Projects Affecting Schools that will be receiving Students on August 14, 2000, and Update on Performance Services Contract - Vanette Webb

Mrs. Webb inquired concerning a change order for Blue Angels Elementary School. Chairman Stidham noted that matter was discussed in the Citizens' Advisory Committee (CAC) for Facilities, but the work has been done. She commented that the contractor had completed the work so that the school could open on time and the extension was addressed in the change order.

Mrs. Webb stated that she was contacted regarding concerns that the administration building project at Tate High School was not ready in time for the beginning of school.

7. Code of Conduct Policy for All District Employees - Vanette Webb

Mrs. Webb stated this was on the agenda in April and was added this month as a reminder to make sure that we adhere to the letter of the law.

The Board recognized the following speaker:

Mr. Douglas Garber, Director of Employee Services, stated that every teacher in the district receives a copy of the policy, and issues related to ethical behavior and standards are addressed.

Mrs. Webb suggested that this policy be incorporated into the School Board Rule regarding employees (when the School District Policy Manual is updated).

8. Conflict regarding Attorney General's Office presenting Public Records Seminar on August 30, 2000 - Vanette Webb

Mrs. Webb stated that she will provide additional backup on this item.

9. In Harm's Way: Toxic Threats to Child Development - A Report by Greater Boston Physicians for Social Responsibility examining effects on Student Learning (Full Report was provided for the July 18, 2000, School Board Meeting) and July 30, 2000, Pensacola News Journal Article regarding Lead Levels found in Students - Vanette Webb

Mrs. Webb stated that she had provided this report to the Board last month, and she noted that the research may be able to help determine negative learning impacts on children. She asked if the Board Attorney had contacted the Greater Boston Physicians group regarding copyright guidelines, and Mr. Negron stated that he had not. Mrs. Webb stated that an individual had contacted them and indicated there was not a problem.

10. Update on Crisis Management Plan - Vanette Webb

Mrs. Webb stated that the Board had not adopted the Crisis Management Plan. She emphasized that the Board is charged with addressing safety issues for students, and she suggested that the Board adopt the Crisis Management Plan as a policy. She added that the Board is addressing the School Resource Officer Agreements, and the Board should make every effort to provide student safety and protection, as well as a clear understanding of preventative measures in order to protect the School District from liability.

11. For Information: Duties and Responsibilities of School Board - Vanette Webb

Mrs. Webb stated that she will continue to place this item on the agenda each month.

12. For Information: Duties and Responsibilities of Superintendent - Vanette Webb

Mrs. Webb stated that she will continue to place this item on the agenda each month.

13. Consideration of New Mandated Programs - Hal Mason

Dr. Mason requested input from staff, and Dr. Douglas Garber, Director of Employee Services, stated that a matrix with information concerning new mandated programs will be provided to the Board on Monday, August 14, 2000.

VI. ITEMS FROM THE ATTORNEY

There were no items submitted by the Board Attorney.

VII. ITEMS FROM THE STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES

No items were submitted.

VIII. STUDENT TRANSFERS

There was no discussion concerning this item.

The following items were moved forward:

IX. HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES

D. Staff Development

1. Langford Quality Learning Seminar - Train teachers in effective teaching practices, which are based on the use of quality tools.

The Board recognized the following speakers:

1) Ms. Debra Simpkins, Teacher on Special Assignment, Staff Development Office, appeared in support of the Langford Quality Learning Seminar.

2) Ms. Christine Nixon, fourth grade teacher at Holm Elementary School, spoke in support of the seminar which provides learning tools and systematic ways to achieve the aim of highest student achievement. She gave a brief report concerning the impact of quality learning concepts on Math, English, and Reading assessments.

3) Ms. Margaret Roh, fourth grade teacher at Holm Elementary School, spoke in support of the seminar, and she emphasized the impact on student progress and success, as well as parental and community involvement factors.

4) Ms. Arlene Costello, President, Escambia Education Association (EEA), spoke in support of this training for purposes of staff development.

Dr. Jenkins asked if there were differences in math scores based on gender. Ms. Nixon responded that there are studies which indicate differences in gender as far as math achievement is concerned; however, the total quality techniques utilized in this training helps to level the playing field and provides learning tools for all students to achieve. Mrs. Webb inquired concerning the funding sources for the $27,500 fee and was advised that this is categorical funding through staff development.

The meeting returned to the regular agenda.

IX. HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES

A. Instructional/Professional

2. Reappointments - To request approval for:

- 4 recommendations for fourth-year annual contract for 2000-2001 school year

Dr. DeWitt requested input from staff, and Ms. Ella Sims, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, advised that the first two individuals do not hold valid professional certificates for the courses they are teaching and will not be eligible to get four-year contracts until they obtain professional certification. Ms. Teenie Wehemeier, Certification Officer, clarified that one of the individuals is teaching Social Studies and the other is teaching in Exceptional Student Education (ESE), and although they are certified on temporary certificate, they cannot obtain a professional services contract until completion of a subject area test.

Ms. Sims commented that the other two individuals had been transferred to different schools, and the recommendations for fourth year contracts were made by the principals. Dr. Mason inquired concerning the performance appraisals and was advised that the principals identify any areas for improvement. Mr. May stated that when a teacher changes certification or is transferred to another school, the principal is entitled to evaluate the person for another year. Dr. DeWitt stated that he concurred with the first two recommendations for fourth-year contract but would confer with staff regarding the other two. He expressed that if an employee has done good work for three years, the employee should be granted professional services contract.

3. Transfers - To request approval for 56 transfers. These transfers are due to resignations and retirements

Dr. Mason inquired concerning transfer of a teacher from elementary to high school. Ms. Wehemeier advised that the teacher is going from elementary to high school based on the purpose for which the principal hired the individual, and certification is verified in such cases.

4. Out-of-Field - To request approval of 28 Out-of-Field Instructional Personnel

Dr. DeWitt inquired concerning hiring of Social Workers and was advised that one recommendation involves a reappointment, and the others are Social Workers (Visiting Teachers) who have been teachers in the school system for years, but were required to complete degrees in Social Work for certification purposes.

Mrs. Webb stated that she was contacted about the possibility of a confidential employee matter, and she stated that she will confer with Mr. Robert Husbands, Executive Director, Escambia NEA UniServ, at his earliest convenience.

5. Resignations/Retirements - To request approval for 60 resignations, and 5 retirements

Dr. Mason expressed concerning regarding the number of resignations.

6. Special Requests

6) To request approval to establish a job description on the professional salary schedule entitled SEMS Support Personnel Recruiter

Dr. DeWitt asked if this was a new position. Mr. May noted that $120,000 was spent last year (from the Food Services account) with Action Labor to bring in substitutes for cafeteria workers, and the district is looking at expanding that to Facility employees and other workers. Mr. Jerome Watson, Deputy Superintendent, stated that he had provided background information to the Board.

The Board recognized the following speaker:

Mr. Douglas Garber, Director of Employee Services, noted that this item would also cover custodial workers, bus drivers, and teachers.

7) To report the deaths of two active instructional employees - Wedgewood Middle and George Stone Center

Dr. Mason requested that the Board, by consensus, ask the Chairman to send condolence letters to the immediate families of the deceased.

X. FINANCE

7. Budget Amendments

f) Resolution 1: Financial Aid Trust Fund

Dr. Mason inquired concerning the transfer of $15,000 out of the Financial Aid Trust Fund. Ms. Barbara Linker, Director of Budgeting, responded that the budget transfer reflects fees that were collected (for adult students for financial aid) as of the end of the fiscal year.

Mrs. Webb left the workshop at 11:30 a.m.

Mr. May commended the Finance staff for their hard work and extra hours they are working during the budget process.

XI. PURCHASING

1. Charter Bus Services, Bid #00 65 03

Mrs. Webb asked if the purchase amount varies annually. Mr. Boyer explained that the funding sources vary. Dr. Jenkins asked if minority-owned businesses were represented. Mr. Boyer stated that Southern Motor Coach is on the list. Dr. Jenkins discussed concerns that a minority owner was on the list several years ago but did not get enough work to support purchase of new buses. Mrs. Webb noted that minority contracting is outlined under School Board Rule. Mr. Boyer stated that efforts are made to prioritize the vendor list based on economics. Dr. Mason suggested the possibility of renegotiating with the top five vendors to provide vendor selection on a rotating basis. Mr. Boyer replied that rotation of vendors could be addressed; however, the booster clubs and PTAs involved are not under the direct control of the School District. Dr. Jenkins suggested encouraging the groups involved to utilize the vendors in a fair manner.

2. Bid Award: Education Grade Level Equipment Kits, Bid #00 54 01

Dr. Mason requested input from staff, and Ms. Annette McArthur, Director of Elementary Education, advised that this item involves purchase of new science books out of the textbook flexibility funds or out of science monies and not out of the General Fund.

7. Change Notice #1 to PO #208485 (Roesch House Movers)

Dr. Mason requested input from staff and was advised that this is not a construction contract. Mr. Boyer noted this involves moving portable buildings because of changing curriculum requirements at the schools.

8. Bid Award: Office and Print Shop Paper, Bid #00 67 02.

Dr. Mason stated that Dr. Bill Maloy is scheduled to speak at the Board Meeting on behalf of the Citizens' Advisory Committee (CAC) for Finance, and Dr. Mason asked if approval of this item could be delayed. Mr. Boyer noted this involves purchase of paper for copiers throughout the district. Mr. Gene Pettis, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, spoke in support of this item.

Dr. Mason stated that he had been contacted by a parent regarding school supplies; i.e., calling for paper, paper towels, etc. Ms. Annette McArthur, Director of Elementary Education, noted that the schools have a basic supply list which does not include paper towels or copy paper; however, schools sometimes post a wish list but the only requirements are the basic supply lists as approved by the Board. Dr. Mason asked if a supply list could be provided for each school or grade level next year, and possibly open the warehouse for a weekend to make supplies available at wholesale prices or without sales tax. After discussion, Mr. Sam Scallan, Director of Internal Auditing, advised that the district is tax exempt for those items which the district consumes, but if the district resold school supplies, that would be taxable. Chairman Stidham commented that in the State of Alabama, there were instances where PTAs provided for school supplies to supplement the classrooms. Ms. McArthur stated that some schools and PTAs in this district have done that. Dr. Mason asked if the Superintendent could discuss that possibility with the School Advisory Councils. Mr. May stated that he would invite Dr. Mason to come and talk with the School Advisory Councils regarding that possibility. Dr. DeWitt inquired concerning the "Cram the Van" project, and Ms. McArthur noted that is a community effort to provide supplies for those students who cannot afford the basics on the supply list that was approved by the Board.

11. Change Notice #1 to PO # 203609 (Wescon Corporation).

Dr. Mason asked when the problem was discovered (at A.V. Clubbs Center regarding window replacement). Mr. Ted Kirchharr, Director of Facilities and Maintenance, stated that the problem was discovered in June. Upon inquiry from Dr. Jenkins, Mr. Kirchharr noted there was an issue with asbestos as well as window replacement. Mrs. Webb inquired concerning safety policy, and Mr. Kirchharr stated that periodic safety surveillance is conducted every six months, with reinspections every three years.

14. Change Notice #2 to PO # 207279 (Jack Moore & Company, Inc.).

Mrs. Webb discussed concerns that the renovation work at Tate High School was not ready for the beginning of school, which presented safety concerns for students and staff.

XII. FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE

1. FINAL PAYMENTS

a. Theatrical Lighting at the New N. B. Cook Elementary

Dr. Mason asked if the lighting was considered part of the original construction contract costs, and Mr. Ted Kirchharr, Director of Facilities and Maintenance, stated that was the case. Dr. Mason asked if the carpeting was included as part of construction costs. Mr. Kirchharr stated that carpeting is typically included in the cost of construction; however, you do not pay that to the contractor. He noted that involved a separate contract with a flooring company to install carpet.

b. Controls for the Cafeteria at Tate High School

Dr. Mason inquired concerning documentation including invoices which he had requested concerning the change order. Dr. David Epperson, Assistant Superintendent for Facilities and Maintenance, stated that he had provided all of the documentation that is available. He noted that payment was made to the contractor based on his pay request (after the architect approved the pay request). Upon request from Dr. Mason, Dr. Epperson stated that he would request a cost breakdown from the architect.

2. MISCELLANEOUS

d. New Comprehensive Technical High School at the George Stone Vocational Center

Dr. Mason requested input from staff, and Mr. Kirchharr noted that a change order was presented for Board approval to address liquidated damages based on provisions in the contract.

XIII. CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION

There was no discussion at this time. Discussion was held with teachers earlier in the workshop concerning the Langford Quality Learning Seminar (Item Number IX.D.1 - Staff Development - Training for teachers in effective teaching practices, which are based on the use of quality tools).

XIV. TRANSPORTATION

No transportation items were submitted.

XV. INTERNAL AUDITING

A. Internal Funds

- No items submitted

B. Inventory Adjustment Reports

There was no discussion concerning this item.

C. Other

- No items submitted

XVI. PUBLIC FORUM

There were no speakers at this time.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business, the workshop adjourned at 12:10 p.m. (Official recordings of this meeting are filed in the Information Services Department.)

Attest: Approved:

________________________ __________________________

Superintendent Chairman