ESCAMBIA COUNTY, FLORIDA
MINUTES, OCTOBER 16, 2001
The School Board of Escambia County, Florida, convened in public forum at 6:00 p.m., in Room 160, at the J.E. Hall Educational Services Center, 30 East Texar Drive, Pensacola, Florida, with the following present:
Chairman: Dr. John DeWitt
Vice Chairman: Mrs. Cary Stidham
Board Members:
Mr. Gary L. Bergosh
Ms. Linda Finkelstein
Dr. Elmer Jenkins
School Board Attorney: Mr. Francisco M. Negron, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools: Mr. Jim Paul
Dr. DeWitt called the public forum to order at 6:00 p.m.
Mr. Wayne Odom gave the invocation and students from the Jackie Harris Pyramid School led the pledge of allegiance and recited “The Creed” by Marva N. Collins.
The Board recognized the following speakers who addressed various subjects:
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “A”)
Name Jeannie Medlin
Issue Teachers’ Salaries
Ron Knowlton
Teachers’ Salaries
Bonnie Exner
Northwest Florida Delegation/Teachers’ Salaries
Jack Hood
Teachers’ Salaries
Harry Tripp
Teachers’ Salaries
Kathy Terrell
Teachers’ Salaries
Wanda Kotick
“Fall Festival” at Suter Elementary
Kathy Breakall
Teachers’ Salaries
Wanda McBrearton
N.B. Cook Elementary and Suter Elementary Attendance Zones
Harley Bennett
N.B. Cook Elementary and Suter Elementary Attendance Zones
Sheldon Dykes
Educational Support Personnel Salaries
Madonna Jackson-Williams
Teachers’ Salaries
Gail Husbands
Teachers’ Salaries/Educational Support Personnel Salaries
Gay Smith
Teachers’ Salaries
I. CALL TO ORDER
Dr. DeWitt called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m.
II. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
The Superintendent listed the additions, deletions and amendments to the agenda. (see margin notes) On motion made by Dr. Jenkins and seconded by Mrs. Stidham, adoption of the agenda as amended, was unanimously approved.
III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. 09-10-01 SPECIAL MEETING [Florida School Boards Association (FSBA) Presentation]
2. 09-10-01 SPECIAL MEETING [Executive Session (Litigation)]
3. 09-10-01 SPECIAL MEETING [Budget]
4. 09-14-01 REGULAR WORKSHOP
5. 09-14-01 SPECIAL MEETING [Executive Session (Collaborative Bargaining)]
6. 09-18-01 SPECIAL MEETING [Board Panel (Rotary Meeting)]
7. 09-18-01 REGULAR MEETING
8. 09-25-01 SPECIAL MEETING [Board Panel (Rotary Meeting)]
9. 09-25-01 SPECIAL MEETING [Executive Session (Collaborative Bargaining)]
10. 09-25-01 SPECIAL RECOGNITION MEETING
Motion was made by Mrs. Stidham and seconded by Ms. Finkelstein, to approve the minutes for the month of September (Items 1-10). Motion was unanimously approved.
IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. Stellar Employee Recognition
The Superintendent announced that Mr. T.J. Thomas, Custodial Supervisor at Brownsville Academy of Arts and Sciences, was the Stellar Employee for the month of October. He stated that Mr. Thomas has been a custodial supervisor for the past thirty (30) years. Mr. Thomas received a plaque and pin from the School District and a check in the amount of $100 donated by Members First Credit Union.
2. Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Finance – Gary Bergosh
Mr. Bergosh stated the committee had several visitors in attendance at their October 11th meeting. He noted that attorneys, Mr. Joe Hammons and Mr. Steven J. Baker, were present to discuss the various legal matters they handle for the School District and the benefits their services provide. Dr. DeWitt was also in attendance to discuss a recommendation made by the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Technology and Curriculum regarding a thirty percent (30%) holdback of payment funds, pending the results of any scholastic program purchased by the district. Mr. Bergosh stated that the committee (Citizens Advisory Committee for Finance) agreed with that recommendation.
3. Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Facilities – Cary Stidham
Mrs. Stidham stated that the committee met on October 9th and discussed matters that were pending for this meeting and also reviewed policy issues. She noted that the next meeting would be held at Escambia High School.
4. Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Technology and Curriculum – John DeWitt and Linda Finkelstein
Dr. DeWitt stated that the committee had discussed items relating to technology that were pending for this meeting and noted that the committee recommends approval of those items.
Mrs. Finkelstein stated that Ms. Sheree’ Cagle, Director of Comprehensive Planning, discussed the criteria used in processing grants and Mr. Paul Fetsko, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, discussed standardized curriculum. Ms. Finkelstein stated that the committee also reviewed items relating to curriculum that were pending for this meeting and noted that the committee recommends approval of those items.
5. Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Human Resources and Minority Recruitment – Elmer Jenkins
Dr. Jenkins stated that the committee was still in the process of formation and was hopeful that the first committee meeting would be scheduled for November.
6. PTA Presentation
Ms. Karen Pope, President, Escambia County Council PTA (ECCPTA), gave a brief update of the recent activities of the PTA. She advised the Board of a program offered by Ensley Elementary School entitled “Grandparent Raising Grandkids” and a workshop hosted by the Brown Barge PTA entitled “Coping Strategies to Help Our Children Heal.” She expressed her appreciation to the principals of Lincoln Park Elementary and Escambia High School for their support during the recent establishment of their new PTA’s. She reminded the Board of upcoming functions (Annual Florida PTA Convention, PTA County Council General Meeting and PTA Round Table Discussion with the School Board). She also expressed her appreciation to Mr. Norm Ross, Deputy Superintendent, and other district staff, for their participation in the question and answer forum held on September 27.
7. Update from School Attendance Zone Advisory Committee (SAZAC)
Dr. DeWitt stated the School Attendance Zone Advisory Committee (SAZAC) had given an update at the October 12, 2001 Regular Workshop. He noted that the Board would continue to review the information received from that update and that SAZAC would present their final report to the Board in November.
8. Quarterly Report from the One-Half Cent Sales Tax Watchdog Committee
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “B”)
Admiral Pete Booth, Chairman of the One-Half Cent Sales Tax Watchdog Committee, gave a brief review of the committee’s Quarterly Report.
DELETE
9.
Report from Mike Burns, Coordinator of Community and Legislative
Affairs
V. CONSENT AGENDA
Board Members pulled the following items from the Consent Agenda for separate vote: V.B.7 by Mrs. Stidham; V.C.1.f.6 by Mrs. Stidham; V.D.11 by Dr. Jenkins; V.D.12 by Mrs. Stidham and V.D.14 by Dr. DeWitt. Dr. DeWitt stated that he would abstain from voting on Item V.D.17 and has filed a Memorandum of Voting Conflict Form.
On motion by Mrs. Stidham and second by Dr. Jenkins, the Consent Agenda, except for items pulled was unanimously approved.
A. Curriculum and Instruction
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “C”)
Approved:
1. Governor’s Mentoring Initiative
2. 2001-2002 School Advisory Council Nominations
AMENDED
3. School Improvement Plan 2001-2002
4. Amendment to the Charter Agreement Between the School Board of Escambia County and New Road to Learning, Inc., dba Jackie Harris Pyramid School of Learning
5. Title I Accountability Project for School Improvement 2001-2002
6. Panhandle Area Educational Consortium Subcontract Agreement (Migrant/ESOL Counselor)
7. Panhandle Area Educational Consortium Cost-Reimbursement Subcontract Agreement (Migrant Pre-K)
8. Contract Between the School Board of Escambia County and Children’s Services Center
9. Request for Continuation Funding for Even Start Family Literacy Program
10. Agreement Between Sunbelt Staffing Solutions, Inc. and the School District of Escambia County, Florida (Time Period: 10/17/01 – 12/18/01)
11. Agreement Between Sunbelt Staffing Solutions, Inc. and the School District of Escambia County, Florida (Time Period: 10/17/01 – 05/28/02)
B. Finance
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “D”)
Approved:
1. Authorization for payrolls and vouchers for the month of November 2001
2. Check Register for the month of August 2001
3. Financial Report for the month of June
4. Legal Services:
Summary of all legal fees
5. Legal Services:
General Fund
a) Kievit, Kelly & Odom $31.50
b) Kievit, Kelly & Odom $116.50
c) Allbritton & Gant $550.00
d) Hammons & Whittaker, P. A. $1,404.00
e) Hammons & Whittaker, P. A. $1,147.50
f) Hammons & Whittaker, P. A. $ 40.50
g) Hammons & Whittaker, P. A. $54.00
6. Risk Management Legal Services:
a) Hammons & Whittaker, P. A. $22,619.43
b) Hammons & Whittaker, P. A. $ 2,713.50
7. Resolution authorizing the issuance of Refunding Certificates of Participation, Series 2001
Ms. Finkelstein moved to adopt the Resolution authorizing the issuance of Refunding Certificates of Participation, Series 2001, subject to revision of the Preliminary Official Statement to reflect state budget changes and any other changes required by the Chair or the General Counsel. Motion was seconded by Mrs. Stidham. Ms. Finkelstein explained that the intent of her motion was to ensure that the Board would have the ability to make any necessary changes or additions to the current document, regarding any future budgetary concerns that may arise. Motion was unanimously approved.
8. Miscellaneous Salary Schedule for 2001-2002
9. Disposal of Capitalized and Non-Capitalized Assets:
a) Auction Lists I, II, III, IV & V for October 2001
b) Scrap Lists I & II for October 2001
10. Financial Status Report on Projects and Grants
11. Budget Amendments
a) Resolution 1: General Operating Fund
d) Resolution 1: Capital Projects Fund
C. HUMAN RESOURCES SERVICES
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “E”)
Approved:
1. Instructional/Professional
a. Appointments
b. Reappointments
c. Transfers
d. Out-of-field
-No items submitted
e. Resignations/Retirements
f. Special Requests
DELETED
5.
To request approval to establish job description and paygrade of
Coordinator of
Florida
Inclusion Network (FIN) on the administrative salary
schedule. (tabled to November 2001 Regular
Meeting)
6. Request approval of payment of retention bonus for Pre-K and Adult Education teachers and the establishment of a tuition and materials fund for the “Home Grown” Scholarship Program
Mrs. Stidham moved to approve the payment of retention bonus for Pre-K and Adult Education teachers (Phase I). [The Superintendent’s Recommendation included Phase II (to dedicate the remaining funds to pay for tuition and educational supplies associated with the “Home Grown Program,” however that was not included in the motion by Mrs. Stidham] Motion was seconded by Ms. Finkelstein. Dr. DeWitt explained that the state legislature had not included Pre-K and Adult Education teachers in the original retention bonus payment and that the intent of the motion was to implement payment to those teachers (Pre-K and Adult Education) in an effort to treat all teachers equally. Dr. Jenkins stated that the success of students depended upon all teachers involved in the educational process and believed that the state legislature made a mistake by not including Pre-K and Adult Education teachers in the retention bonus payment. Motion was unanimously approved.
2. Educational Support Personnel
a. Appointments
b. Resignations/Retirements
c. Terminations
d. Suspensions
-No items submitted
e. Dismissals
-No items submitted
AMENDED
f. Leave of Absence
g. Special Requests
-No items submitted
3. Risk Management
a. School Resource Officer Agreement – City of Pensacola Police Department
b. Settlement with LabCorp by United HealthCare Services
4. Employee Services
-No items submitted
5. Affirmative Action
-No items submitted
D. Purchasing
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “F”)
Approved:
1. Bid Award: Dental Claims Processing & Plan Administration, Bid # 020301
2. Digital Cameras and Camcorders for Brentwood Elementary School
3. Number assigned – not used
4. ITI Microcomputers for Escambia High School
5. Annual Agreement Renewal: Xerox 5892 Copier for FDLRS
6. Annual Agreement Renewal: McAfee Computer Virus Protection Software
7. Annual Agreement Renewal: Internet Service Provider, Bid # 006601
8. Professional Services Agreement: Speech Language Pathology Services (Kimberly Davis Andreoli)
9. Professional Services Agreement: Speech Language Pathology Services (Sarah C. Dennis)
10. Instructional Modules for West Florida High School of Advanced Technology
AMENDED
11. Number
assigned – not used Master Agreement:
ACALETICS Math Curriculum Accelerator Program (Educational
Development Associates, Inc.)
Dr. Jenkins moved to accept the Master Agreement: ACALETICS Math Curriculum Accelerator Program (Educational Development Associates, Inc.) Motion was seconded by Mr. Bergosh. Dr. Jenkins explained that based on information the Board had received, he believed that this program had proven to be successful in many Florida counties. He noted that this was a minority owned business and reminded the Board that the district, in years passed, had developed a minority assistance program with the intent to make special efforts to work with minority companies. He also noted that this company had agreed to a fifteen percent (15%) holdback of final payment, pending the results of the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT). Mr. Bergosh stated that although the funds to purchase this program could possibly be carried forward to next years’ budget, he would support the motion because he believed that this program would benefit the teachers and the school. Mrs. Stidham stated that she would not support the motion because she believed that there was district staff available that could perform these services. Ms. Finkelstein expressed concerns regarding the timing, noting that the program would only be implemented for a few months before the FCAT was administered and she believed that there was district staff available that could perform these services. Dr. Deborah Malishan, Director of Elementary Education, stated that while the district does have staff that could perform these types of services at Weis Elementary, those individuals also have very many other schools that they are addressing as well. After discussion, Ms. Finklestein asked Dr. Jenkins for his opinion about whether or not the implementation of this program would make a difference for Weis Elementary. Dr. Jenkins stated that while he did have some concerns regarding the timing, he believed that the program would have successful results and believed that the Board should support the implementation of the program. Ms. Finkelstein stated that she would support the motion based on her respect for Dr. Jenkins’ ability to make a wise decision for a school in his district. Dr. DeWitt noted that the funds to purchase this program could probably be carried forward to next years’ budget, and believed that the Board should not expend those funds on this program due to the current budget concerns. He shared the concerns of other Board Members regarding the timing and the use of district staff to perform the services. He also had concerns that the company would only agree to a 15% holdback on payment of funds rather than the recommendation of 30% by the Citizens Advisory Committee for Technology and Curriculum. After further discussion, motion was approved 3 to 2, with Mrs. Stidham and Dr. DeWitt voting “No.”
12. Temporary Employment Services: Landrum Staffing Services
Mrs. Stidham moved to table this item (Temporary Employment Services: Landrum Staffing Services) to the November Regular Board Meeting.Motion was seconded by Ms. Finkelstein and unanimously approved.
13. Smart Boards and Digital Projectors for Brentwood Elementary School
14. Annual Agreement Renewal: Medicaid Claim Services
Dr. DeWitt moved to approve the Annual Agreement Renewal: Medicaid Claim Services and that all medicaid dollars generated be placed in the district general revenue fund, to be administered to programs by the district, as needed. Motion was seconded by Mr. Bergosh. Dr.DeWitt believed that all medicaid dollars generated should be placed in the district general revenue fund and held there until the budget situation for next year is determined. He stated that while he believed that the dollars certainly need to go back to the program that they were generated from, it should be the Board’s right and responsibility to decide how those funds were administered. Upon inquiry by Dr. Jenkins, Mr. Negron stated that he was not aware of any particular regulation that states that the money has to be spent a certain way. Ms. Yvonne Gray, Director of Exceptional Student Education, explained that the individuals who currently process the direct billing medicaid claims do so with the understanding that up to 70% of the funds generated would be given back to the school so that they could purchase items for Exceptional Student Education (ESE) students (i.e., to purchase materials, supplies, equipment, etc.). Dr. Jenkins believed that dollars generated from direct billing medicaid claims should be controlled by the schools. Mr. Bergosh and Ms. Finkelstein expressed their support for the motion, noting that the funds generated are general revenue and the Board should determine how those funds are used. Mrs. Stidham had concerns that the individuals who file the medicaid claims are not required to do so and therefore the funds are not guaranteed, noting that the individual may at any time decide to no longer file the claims.
The Board recognized Ms. Susan Berry, Principal, Escambia Westgate Center, who reminded the Board that schools must have permission from parents, to process direct billing medicaid claims. She noted that when the parents give the school permission, they do so with the knowledge that the funds generated will go back into the school to benefit the students. She stated that the money generated last year by direct billing medicaid claims enabled the school to replace equipment that was over twenty-five (25) years old.
Motion was approved 4 to 1, with Dr. Jenkins voting “No.”
15. Change Notice #1 to Purchase Order # 214212 (DMG Maximus Consultants)
16. Contract for Consulting / Professional Services: Utility Audit (Cost Recovery Group, Inc.)
17. Compass Learning Educational Software for Brentwood Elementary School
Dr. DeWitt abstained from voting on this item (which was approved as part of the Consent Agenda), and filed a Memorandum of Voting Conflict Form.
18. Bid Award: Security Surveillance System, Bid # 020602
19. Roofing for Bellview Middle School Media Center
20. Gutters and Downspouts for Weis Elementary School
21. Bid Award: Classroom Additions at Sherwood Elementary School
22. Bid Award: Classroom Additions at Jim Allen Elementary School
23. Bid Award: General Renovations at O.J. Semmes Elementary School
24. Bid Award: Additions and Renovations at Spencer Bibbs Elementary School
25. Bid Award: Addition of Music Suite at Escambia High School
26. Change Notice #2 to Purchase Order # 224068 (R.W. Born Mechanical)
27. Change Notice #1 to Purchase Order # 214114 (A.E. New, Jr., Inc.)
AMENDED
28. Change Notice #2 to Purchase Order # 220131 (A.E. New, Jr., Inc.)
29. Change Notice #1 to Purchase Order # 224071 (A.E. New, Jr., Inc.)
30. Walkway Canopy with Sidewalk for Edgewater Elementary School
E. Operations
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “G”)
Approved:
1. Facilities Planning
A. Final Payments
DELETED1.
Additions and Renovations at Holm Elementary
School
2. Bus Canopy and Covered Walk at Escambia Westgate Center
3. Installation of Walk-in Cooler/Freezers at Pine Forest and Woodham High Schools
4. Installation of Walk-in Cooler/Freezers at Brentwood and Scenic Heights Elementary Schools
5. Installation of Walk-in Cooler/Freezers at Brentwood, Scenic Heights, Pine Forest and Woodham
6. Gymnasium Renovations at Pensacola High School
7. Phase II, Building #2 Renovations at Tate High School
8. Asbestos Abatement at Woodham High School
B. Miscellaneous
1. Storm Shutter at Tate High School and Blue Angles Elementary School
2. Resolution Authorizing the Sale of Surplus Property McReynolds Center
2. Maintenance
-No items submitted
3. Transportation
-No items submitted
4. School Food Services
-No items submitted
F. Student Transfers
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “H”)
G. Internal Auditing
1. Internal Funds
-No items submitted
2. Inventory Adjustment Reports
-No items submitted
-No items submitted
VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS (PREVIOUSLY TABLED ITEMS OR ITEMS POSTPONED UNTIL CURRENT MEETING)
-No items submitted
VII. NEW BUSINESS
A. PROPOSED ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO SCHOOL DISTRICT RULES
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “I”)
a. Permission to Advertise
1. School Board Rules Revisions/Additions to Chapters of the RULES AND PROCEDURES OF THE ESCAMBIA COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT – POLICY BOOK, 6Gx17 – Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7
Motion was made by Ms. Finkelstein, seconded by Dr. Jenkins, to approve for advertising, School Board Rules Revisions/Additions to Chapters of the Rules and Procedures of the Escambia County School District Policy Book, 6Gx17 – Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7. Dr. DeWitt noted that the motion was to advertise the rule and that this document was subject to various changes and additions (i.e., grammatical, spelling, etc.) prior to its final adoption at the November Regular meeting. Motion was unanimously approved. Dr. DeWitt advised that the document was available for public review in the School Board Office and Human Resources Services Office.
ADD
2. School Board Rule 6Gx17-2.19(4) – EXTENDED ACTIVE DUTY DURING NATIONAL/REGIONAL EMERGENCY
Motion was made by Dr. Jenkins, seconded by Mrs. Stidham, to approve for advertising, School Board Rule 6Gx17-2.19(4) – Extended Active Duty During National/Regional Emergency. Dr. DeWitt noted that this rule was also listed under permission to adopt emergency rule change to go into effect immediately. He stated that the purpose of this rule was to provide a procedure for authorizing active duty military leave during periods of national and regional emergencies. He explained that under this rule, reservists or National Guard personnel that are called to active duty, would be entitled to a continuation of district salary and benefits for the first thirty (30) days of active duty. He further explained that the rule permits said personnel to continue to receive salary and benefits after thirty (30) days, if they surrender their active duty military compensation to the district. Motion was unanimously approved.
b. Permission to Adopt
Dr. DeWitt called for public hearing on each rule prior to motions. There were no speakers on any of the rules.
1. School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.02 – CODE OF CONDUCT: ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Motion made by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Ms. Finkelstein, to adopt School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.02 – Code of Conduct: Elementary and Secondary Rights and Responsibilities, was unanimous.
AMENDED
2. School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.09 – PUPIL PROGRESSION PLAN – UPDATE GRADING SCALE
Motion made by Ms. Finkelstein, seconded by Dr. Jenkins, to adopt School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.09 – Pupil Progression Plan – Update Grading Scale, was unanimous.
3. School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.09 – PUPIL PROGRESSION PLAN – ALTERNATIVE HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS ON NON-TRADITIONAL CAMPUSES
Motion made by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Dr. Jenkins, to adopt School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.09 – Pupil Progression Plan – Alternative High School Programs on Non-Traditional Campuses, was unanimous.
4. School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.09 – PUPIL PROGRESSION AND PROMOTION – STUDENTS WHO ARE IN SCHOOL LESS THAN 135 HOURS
Motion made by Dr. Jenkins, seconded by Mrs. Stidham, to adopt School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.09 – Pupil Progression and Promotion – Students Who Are In School Less Than 135 Hours, was unanimous.
5. School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.15 – CELL PHONES & OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Motion made by Ms. Finkelstein, seconded by Mrs. Stidham, to adopt School Board Rule 6Gx17-7.15 – Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices, was unanimous.
c. Permission to Adopt Emergency Rule Change
ADD
1. School Board Rule 6Gx17-2.19(4) – EXTENDED ACTIVE DUTY DURING NATIONAL/REGIONAL EMERGENCY
Motion made by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Dr. Jenkins, to adopt emergency rule change, School Board Rule 6Gx17-2.19(4) – Extended Active Duty During National/Regional Emergency, was unanimous.
B. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD
1. “Silence Hurts” Resolution
Motion was made by Dr. DeWitt, seconded by Mrs. Stidham, to approve the “Silence Hurts” Resolution. Dr. DeWitt explained that this resolution supports the “Silence Hurts” campaign sponsored by the Florida Department of Education. He explained that the campaign encourages students that are aware of potential incidents of violence to help break the “code of silence” in an effort to help prevent those violent incidents from occurring. Motion was unanimously approved.
WHEREAS, providing for the safety and welfare of students and staff in our schools is among our highest priorities; and
WHEREAS, despite isolated and well-publicized incidents of violence, research shows that schools are still among the safest place for young people to be; and
WHEREAS, our school district has implemented programs to address the vital issue of school safety; and
WHEREAS, the entire community, including students and their families, must play a role in curbing youth violence; and
WHEREAS, pro-social bonding and a sense of community are critical elements to creating a positive school climate and culture; and
WHEREAS, the research-based “Silence Hurts” campaign developed by the Sunshine State Public Relations Association (SUNSPRA) offers resources to promote a positive school climate to encourage students to speak up; and
WHEREAS, strong messages about potential consequences and strategies to promote a positive school culture will help break the “code of silence” and result in a greater likelihood of preventing violent incidents; and
WHEREAS, the “Silence Hurts” initiative is targeted to middle and high school students and the adults who will listen; and
WHEREAS, the success of any statewide communications campaign depends on local commitment to customize and implement; and
WHEREAS, SUNSPRA and corporate sponsors are providing the tools, resources, training, and support for our local schools;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the School Board of Escambia County does hereby endorse the “Silence Hurts” campaign and encourages all middle and high schools to make it a priority to implement this program, attend the Youth Summit, and make full use of available resources to build a more positive climate and culture within our schools.
2. Report on Selection Criteria for Brown Barge Middle School – Linda Finkelstein
(previously discussed at the August 20, 2001 Board Workshop)
Motion was made by Ms. Finkelstein to accept the Brown Barge Middle School Student Selection process as it currently exists with the following additional criteria: 1) all siblings of students who attend Brown Barge Middle School and who meet the selection criteria for entering the selection pool will be accepted, however the accepted students must have a sibling already attending Brown Barge Middle School; 2) Brown Barge Middle School must ensure that student selection reflects the geographic, gender and racial population of the county, to conform to the Escambia County desegregation decision where a minimum of 35% of the student body shall be African American; 3) Brown Barge Middle School will balance the selection process to prevent adversely affecting any particular zoned middle school. Motion was seconded by Dr. Jenkins and unanimously approved.
3. Report on Converting Cook Elementary to a Dedicated District Magnet School – Linda Finkelstein
Ms. Finkelstein moved to designate N.B. Cook Elementary as a district-wide magnet school with no attendance zone, and to include the following additional criteria: 1) the minority status will be increased to a minimum of 35% to reflect the racial make-up of the county (minority status to be defined as African-American only, as stated in the Augustus agreement); 2) all children presently attending N.B. Cook Elementary will be allowed to continue through graduation (this will enable the school to reach an approved racial balance without adversely affecting the enrollment of any contributing elementary school); 3) all other criteria for N.B. Cook Elementary under the existing agreement with the Escambia County School Board, will remain in force. Motion was seconded by Dr. Jenkins. The Superintendent and staff believed that more information was needed regarding ramifications relating to the Augustus agreement and other concerns within that student population. After discussion, Ms. Finkelstein at the advice of Mr. Negron, amended her motion to include “meaningful choice by way of transportation at district expense shall be afforded to students at the Spencer Bibbs Elementary and O.J. Semmes Elementary for transfer to schools in which their race is in the majority within the eastern corridor.” Dr. Jenkins accepted the friendly amendment. Dr. DeWitt had concerns that the amendment to the motion would greatly increase transportation costs to the district and therefore would not support. Motion failed 4 to 1, with Dr. DeWitt, Mrs. Stidham, Mr. Bergosh and Dr. Jenkins voting “No.”
DELETED 4.
Nine Week Grading Procedures – Gary Bergosh
C. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “J”)
1. Request approval of Administrative Transfer
On motion by Mrs. Stidham, second by Dr. Jenkins, the Superintendent’s recommendation for the Administrative Transfer of Ms. Gloria Johnson from Director of Payroll and Benefits Accounting, to Director of Accounting Operations, effective October 1, 2001, was unanimously approved. At the request of the Superintendent, Ms. Johnson came forward to be recognized by the Board.
2. Request approval of Instructional Salary Schedule for the 2001-2002 School Year and the
Instructional Supplemental Salary Schedule for the 2001-2002 School Year (subject to limiting provisions of Section 447.309, Florida Statutes, regarding funding by the legislature)
The Superintendent gave brief comments regarding the numerous budgetary cuts that were made provide funds for salary increases. He stated that his original recommendation to the Board was to approve the salary increase, however, with the district now facing concerns relating to the current and upcoming year’s budget, he would ask that the Board wait until the legislative session meets before approving the salary increase. The Superintendent asked if he had any legal obligation to recommend to the Board, approval of the salary schedule as negotiated by the Board through their chief negotiator. Mr. Negron stated that the Superintendent did have an obligation to offer that recommendation to the Board for approval. Motion was made by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Ms. Finkelstein, to accept the Superintendent’s recommendation for approval of Instructional Salary Schedule for the 2001-2002 School Year and the Instructional Supplemental Salary Schedule for the 2001-2002 School Year (subject to limiting provisions of Section 447.309, Florida Statutes, regarding funding by the legislature). Dr. Jenkins expressed support of the motion and requested assistance from teachers, in efforts to identify funds to be applied towards increasing Educational Support Personnel salaries. Ms. Finkelstein requested that the following comments be included in the record: “For many months now this School Board has been working hard to trim our budget with one goal in mind - to offer our teachers the raises they deserve. Now, after many months of painful cuts, some are urging this Board to withhold these hard earned raises – to take back our commitment to our teachers – and why? Because the State may experience a budget shortfall, which is in part, the result of poor financial planning by the State. Consider this - when the State was rewarding the wealthiest Floridians by slashing the intangible tax, this School Board was cutting it’s budget to fund teacher raises. When the State was reducing State revenue by offering short sided tax holidays, this School Board was cutting it’s budget to fund teachers raises. In short, it is not this School Board that has made the errors in financial planning that have now placed public education in this so-called crisis. Unfortunately, despite all of our hard work it seems that some are determined to make public education in Escambia County pay for the mistakes of others. I have always supported teachers and strongly believe that public education is the one social institution that we should hold up as the underpinning of our society. That means that we should fund it adequately. That means that we should hold it in a place of honor, rather than placing it on the list of cuts. That means that our State, our Governor, our legislators and our Superintendent, should be working hard to preserve public education funding, rather than merely warning us that cuts may be on the way. They should be leading the fight to ensure that education dollars stay where they are. I challenge anyone to claim that this School District is financially mismanaged. That is certainly not the case after we’ve made nearly 1.8 million dollars in cuts. I believe that this School Board is responsible for maintaining a balanced budget, but I do not believe that the State has the right to take from us the money that we have worked so diligently to earn as a reward for our teachers and Educational Support Personnel. ,Ratifying this contract is the right thing to do. Ratification tells our employees we are with you and it tells the public that we stand by our word. If the State chooses to penalize our district by cutting deeply into our budget, then and only then should we approach our employees with financial urgency in the spirit of collaborative bargaining – to do otherwise is to put the cart before the horse and to do it on the backs of our employees. I urge my fellow Board Members to ratify the collaborative bargaining agreement. Thank you.” Mr. Bergosh stated that although the budget situation for next year was uncertain, he would support the motion and asked teachers for their support in the future if additional cuts have to be made. Mrs. Stidham expressed her support for the motion, noting that the Board had worked very hard to make the necessary cuts in order to increase the salaries as promised. She stated that while some individuals were urging the Board to postpone this decision until the budget situation was determined, she believed that the Board needed to move forward with their decision.
The Board recognized the following speakers:
Ms. Arlene Costello, Teacher, PATS Center who expressed her appreciation to the Board for the budget cuts that were made in order to increase teacher salaries.
Mr. Bob Husbands, Executive Director of Escambia NEA UniServ, who expressed his support of the salary increase and offered support to the Board regarding upcoming budget issues.
Dr. DeWitt briefly expressed his support of the motion. Motion was unanimously approved.
3. Student Recommendations
Motion by Dr. Jenkins, second by Ms. Finkelstein, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendations for student expulsion, Items 1, 3 through 15, 17 and 19, and to grant a formal hearing request for Items 2, 16 and 18, was unanimous.
NOTE: ITEM NUMBER 2 (Student Number 02-06-281), Request Formal Hearing
ITEM NUMBER 16 (Student Number 02-22-851), Request Formal Hearing
ITEM NUMBER 18 (Student Number 02-29-521), Request Formal Hearing
1) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the formal hearing officer, student number 02-03-591 not be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County.
REQUEST FORMAL HEARING 2) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-06-281 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
3) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-07-301 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
4) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-08-561 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
5) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-09-281 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
6) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-10-601 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
7) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-11-411 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
8) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-12-061 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
9) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-13-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
10) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-14-221 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
11) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-15-866A be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
12) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-17-061 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
13) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-19-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
14) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-20-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
15) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-21-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
REQUEST FORMAL HEARING 16) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-22-851 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
17) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-23-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
REQUEST FORMAL HEARING 18) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-29-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
19) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-30-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the first semester of the 2001-2002 school year. It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement. Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.
ADD
4. Recommend Termination of Employee Number 554352, effective October 17, 2001
Motion was made by Dr. Jenkins, seconded by Mr. Bergosh, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation for termination of employee number 554352, effective October 17, 2001.
The Board recognized Mr. Bob Husbands, Executive Director of Escambia NEA UniServe, who urged the Board not to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation for termination, noting that the employee had not had an opportunity to review the investigative file. He stated that to approve the recommendation would deny the employee proper notice and suggested that a status other than termination be selected for this employee. Upon inquiry from Dr. Jenkins, Mr. Husbands stated that the employee had been afforded an opportunity to give remarks at two (2) meetings with district personnel, but had not been given the opportunity to review the investigative file.
Mr. Negron advised that the Board could only accept or reject the recommendation of the Superintendent. He stated that he did not agree with the district’s handling of the termination of employees and noted that he would be working with Mr. Joe Hammons, attorney for the Superintendent, to review that process. He stated that the Superintendent’s attorney would claim that although the recommendation is to “terminate,” since the employee is being offered an opportunity to go to an administrative hearing, then the employee is not really “terminated” but rather “suspended without pay.” Dr. Doug Garber, Director of Human Resources Services, had concerns that “suspension without pay” could be considered one punishment and “termination” another. He suggested a status of “suspended without pay” pending full investigation and the opportunity for the employee to review the investigative file, with further disciplinary action to be presented at the November Board meeting. After discussion, the Superintendent withdrew his recommendation to terminate, Dr. Jenkins withdrew his motion to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation and Mr. Bergosh withdrew his second. The Superintendent then made the following recommendation: Recommend “suspension without pay” (of Employee Number 554352), pending notification of the employee of the results of the investigation and reserving the right to make a final recommendation to the Board of final disciplinary action (Effective October 17, 2001). Motion was made by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Dr. Jenkins, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation of “suspension without pay” (of employee number 554352), pending notification of the employee of the results of the investigation and reserving the right to make a final recommendation to the Board of final disciplinary action. Motion was unanimously approved.
D. TEMS FROM THE GENERAL COUNSEL
-No items submitted
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
Attest: Approved:
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Chairman
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Superintendent