ESCAMBIA COUNTY, FLORIDA
The School Board of Escambia County, Florida, convened in Regular Meeting at 7:01 p.m. in the Board Room at the Administrative Building, 215 West Garden Street, with the following present:
Chairman: Dr. Elmer Jenkins
Vice Chairman: Dr. John DeWitt
Members: Mr. Jim C. Bailey
Mrs. Barbara Morris
Mrs. Vanette Webb
School Board Attorney: Mr. Louis F. Ray, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools: Mr. Jim May
The invocation was led by Rabbi Ostrich, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mrs.Linda Finklestein, President, Escambia County Council PTA.
Superintendent May presented a plaque, a pin, and a check for $100 donated by Members First Credit Union, to Mrs. Marolyn Howe, Secretary of Brentwood Elementary School, as the Stellar Employee of the month for January. Mr. May said that Mrs. Howe's outstanding secretarial skills, along with her genuine concern for everyone she comes in contact with, indicates she truly deserves the honor of being chosen Steller Employee for the month of January.
Superintendent May recognized Mrs. Peggy Pilcher, Coordinator of Volunteer Services/Business Partnerships, and read the following resolution:
WHEREAS, working under the guidance of teachers and administrators, community members are of valuable assistance in providing students with the individualized attention that is so essential to their education; and
WHEREAS, more than 13,000 volunteers of various ages, interests, and backgrounds and 275 Partners in Education, contributed significantly to the education of youth during the 1996-97 school year; and
WHEREAS, the recognition of school and community partnerships provides a basis for a continuing commitment to school improvement by increasing the involvement of the community in the classrooms of Escambia County,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the School Board of Escambia County wishes to recognize the value and dedication of those who aid in guiding the education of our students by proclaiming February 8-14, 1998 as
and does hereby order a copy of this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the regular meeting of said Board and a copy be tendered to every Escambia County, Florida public school.
Adopted this 27th day of January, 1998.
Motion by Mrs. Morris, second by Mr. Bailey, to adopt this resolution, was unanimously approved.
Superintendent May recognized Mrs. Jennifer Simmons, President of Escambia Physical Education Association, along with Mr. Manny Harageones, Subject Area Specialist, and read the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the key finding of the Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health is that people of all ages can improve the quality of their lives through a lifelong practice of moderate physical activity; and
WHEREAS, schools have the potential to help children and adolescents establish lifelong, healthy physical activity patterns; and
WHEREAS, the promotion of lifelong physical activity is the primary goal of school physical education programs; and
WHEREAS, the month of March has been designated as Living Well in Florida month by the Governor and Cabinet;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the School Board of Escambia County does hereby recognize March 6, 1998 as
and encourages all schools to provide their students with 15 minutes of physical activity on this day in celebration with the Escambia Physical Education Association, the Florida Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Dance and Driver Education, the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, and the Florida Department of Education.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the regular meeting of said Board and a copy be tendered to Jennifer Simmons, President of the Escambia Physical Education Association.
Adopted this 27th day of January, 1998.
Motion by Dr. DeWitt, second by Mrs. Morris, to adopt this resolution, was unanimously approved.
Superintendent May asked Mrs. Becky Wiggins, President of Escambia County Vocational Association, to come forward to the podium as he read the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the American Vocational Association (AVA) has designated the second week of February as National AVA Week; and
WHEREAS, the theme for AVA Week is "Get Your Career in Gear"; and
WHEREAS, the Escambia Vocational Association (EVA) works with business, industry and agriculture to provide access to skilled labor, which helps Pensacola build and retain its economic vitality;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the School Board of Escambia County does hereby proclaim February 9-13, 1998 as
and urges all citizens to become better acquainted with the services offered by the vocational education programs in Escambia County Schools.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the regular meeting of said Board and copy be tendered to Rebecca Wiggins, President, Escambia County Vocational Association.
Adopted this 27th day of January, 1998.
Motion by Mrs. Morris, second by Mrs. Webb, to adopt this resolution, was unanimously approved.
Superintendent May recognized Arlene Costello, President of EEA, and read the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the citizens of Escambia County stand firmly committed to promoting reading as the catalyst for our students' future academic success, their preparation for America's jobs of the future, and their ability to compete in a global economy; and
WHEREAS, Escambia District schools encourage and invite parent and community involvement in the education of our youth, grounded in the principle that educational investment is key to the community's well-being and long-term quality of life; and
WHEREAS, Read Across America, a national celebration of Dr. Seuss' birthday on March 2, promotes reading and adult involvement in the education of our community's students;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the School Board of Escambia County enthusiastically endorses Read Across America and does hereby proclaim March 1 - 7, 1998 as
and calls on all citizens to ensure that every child is in a safe place reading together with a caring adult on the evening of Friday, March 6, and recommits Escambia District Schools to engage in programs and activities to make America's children the best readers in the world.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the regular meeting of said Board and a copy be posted in all schools and tendered to representatives of Escambia NEA UniServ.
Adopted this 27th day of January, 1998.
Motion by Mrs. Morris, second by Mr. Bailey, to adopt this resolution, was unanimously approved.
Superintendent May listed the additions and deletions to the agenda as follows:
IV. STUDENT TRANSFERS
SEE: Amended Backup
V. HUMAN RESOURCES
A. Instructional
7. Requests for Leave without Pay
SEE: Amended Backup
VI. FINANCE
8. Resolution requesting the issuance of
$5,400,000 $9,000,000 State Board of
Education Lottery Revenue Bonds.
SEE: Amended Backup
VIII. FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE
A. FACILITIES PLANNING
2. MISCELLANEOUS:
d. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
Request board approval of PROPOSAL 1 - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS for One-half Cent Sales Tax Referendum Revenue.
SEE: Amended Backup
XI. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
ADD: 25. Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County and Escambia County regarding Bob Sikes Bridge tolls and passes for school buses.
XII. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD
ADD: 1. Item from Mrs. Webb
ADD: 2. Item from Mrs. Webb
ADD: 3. Item from Mrs. Webb
ADD: 4: Item from Mr. Bailey
ADD: 5: Item from Dr. DeWitt
I. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Motion by Mr. Bailey, second by Mrs. Morris, to adopt the agenda as amended, was unanimously approved.
Prior to moving to the next agenda item, Chairman Jenkins announced the following Board meeting dates and times: Special Board Workshop on Friday, February 20,1998, at 2:00 p.m.; Regular Board Workshop on Monday, February 23, 1998, at 8:00 a.m.; and Regular Board meeting on Tuesday, February 24, 1998, at 7:00 p.m. The following special meetings are scheduled for the presentation of School Improvement Plans: Monday, February 23, 1998, 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.; Tuesday, February 24, 1998, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Wednesday, February 25, 1998, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Thursday, February 26, 1998, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Mr. Ray indicated that he would be out of town during the Special Board Workshop, and should the Board need legal representation, Mr. Joseph Hammons had indicated he would be available. After some discussion, it was decided that should there be a need for legal representation during this Workshop, Mr. Hammons could in fact step in for Mr. Ray.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Request approval of minutes for the 12/15/97 Regular Board Workshop and the 12/16/97 Regular Board Meeting.
Mrs. Morris moved to approve the minutes of the 12/15/97 Regular Board Workshop and the 12/16/97 Regular Board Meeting, with the following amendment for clarification purposes: 12/16/97 minutes, Page 11, item c.,"The Department of Community Arrairs has informed us that a supplemental appropriation has been received and the $71,254 has been added for 100% funding for this project which means no cost to the School District."
Motion was seconded by Dr. DeWitt.
Mrs. Webb stated there were needed revisions to both sets of minutes in question, as she did not consider her remarks to be accurately presented. Dr. DeWitt said that any changes to be made to the minutes at this meeting should be specifically presented to the Board prior to their vote for approval. After much discussion, Mr. Ray recommended that a vote be taken on Mrs. Morris's motion, and then Mrs. Webb would present her amendments for action. Motion was unanimously approved.
Mrs. Webb made a motion that the 12/15/97 Workshop Meeting minutes be amended to add her comments for the purpose of conveying her concerns and/or clarifying the reason for her vote at the Board meeting on the following three items: (1) page 4, item VII. B.3.1.; (2) IX. 2.; and (3) XII. 3. The motion was seconded by Mr. Bailey.
Mrs. Morris suggested that Mrs. Webb contact the recording secretary and have her requested amendments typed and presented to the Board for action at the next meeting. Mrs. Webb stated that she was asking that only comments she had made be added and those statements could be verified when the secretary listened to the tapes.
The motion was approved 4/1 with Dr. DeWitt voting NO. Mrs. Morris asked that Board Members be provided copies of the amended minutes prior to their distribution.
Mrs. Webb made a motion to amend the 12/16/97 Regular Meeting minutes by adding her comments under XII.1. This was an item presented by Mrs. Morris pertaining to the Educational Facilities Commission. The motion died for lack of a second. Mrs. Morris stated that Mrs. Webb could present the requested amendment for action at the February Board meeting.
III. PROPOSED ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO SCHOOL DISTRICT RULES
A. Permission to Advertise
1. School Board Rule 6Gx17-4.02
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND PROCEDURES FOR EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS
Motion was made by Mrs. Morris and seconded by Mr. Bailey, to approve the above rule for advertising. Motion was unanimously approved.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit A)
B. Permission to Adopt
No Items Submitted
IV.-X. CONSENT AGENDA
Motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Mrs. Morris and seconded by Mr. Bailey. The following items were pulled from the consent agenda. Dr. DeWitt pulled Item V. A.
for discussion, and Item VI. 7. for a separate motion. Mrs. Webb pulled Item VI. 8., Item VII. C 2.3, Items VIII. 2 a. b. and c., and Item IX. 2. for comment. There were also speaker requests on VII. B 1.1, and VII. C 2.3.
IV. STUDENT TRANSFERS
This item was approved as amended.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit B)
V. HUMAN RESOURCES
A. Instructional
Dr. DeWitt reiterated his concerns which he stated during the yesterday's workshop regarding the number of permanent substitute teachers hired under the hiring freeze currently in effect. He stated it was unfair to these employees to provide no benefits, and pay them at the substitute rate of pay, for handling the same responsibilities as those teachers hired prior to the hiring freeze.
Superintendent May stated although he agreed with Dr. DeWitt philosophically, he had no choice but to remain firm, for budgetary reasons, on continuing the hiring freeze.
Approved:
1. Appointments
Clapsadl, Michael Escambia 02/02/98 G Guertin, Retired
Gross, Louvina Tate 01/05/98 Additional ROTC Pos
Rains, George Washington 12/15/97 D Rigby, Transf'd
2. Resignations
Belott, Mark George Stone 12/19/97
Jordan, Michael Ransom 01/14/98
Joyner, Tammy Pensacola 12/19/97
Moring, Emily Semmes 12/19/97
Sims, Karen Carver 12/19/97
Steeley, Paul Woodham 01/06/98
Williams, John Brownsville 01/05/98
Wood, Joan Holm 12/19/97
3. Retirees
Bayer, Katharine West Pensacola 2/09/98
DeMilly, William Montclair 12/5/97 (Disability)
Kent, Lynnwood Pre-K Ctrs/Princ 01/06/98
4. Teachers Returning from Leave of Absence
Anderson, Kaye West Pensacola 01/05/98
Dickenson, Denise ESE/Speech 12/08/97
Dunlap, Deanna Sid Nelson 01/05/98
5. Transfers
None at this time.
6. Requests for Leave With Pay
1997
Baker, Peggy Pensacola Beach 11/24,25 Jury duty
Baker, Sally Montclair 11/17,21 Jury duty
Barberree, Tracy Byrneville 11/13 Subpoena
Boyd, Jean Ensley 11/26 Subpoena
Brown, David Pine Forest 11/17 Jury duty
Clark, Cecil Pensacola 12/5 Jury duty
Crowder, Jean Westgate Ctr 11/18,25;12/2,9 Professional
Daniels, Gena Navy Point 12/8 Jury duty
Edgar, Autumn West Pensacola 12/1 Jury duty
Gattiker, Carolyn Bellview El 11/24 Jury duty
Graves, Margaret Brownsville 11/24 Jury duty
Grund, Anne Bellview El 11/17 Jury duty
Lewis, Rose Pensacola 12/1 Jury duty
Mack, Julia McArthur 12/8 Jury duty
McFarland, Angela Brentwood M 11/25;12/2,9 Professional
Myrick, Regina Bellview El 11/24-26 Jury duty
Newcome, Jan Lincoln Park 11/17 Jury duty
Renfore, William George Stone 11/24 Jury duty
Robbins, Bennie Warrington M 12/1 Jury duty
Scherbarth, Sharon West Pensacola 11/13 Subpoena
Shields, Susan Westgate Ctr 11/17-25 Jury duty
Stone, Patsy Ferry Pass M 12/1,5 Jury duty
Tucker, Rebecca Cordova Park 11/24 Jury duty
Wells, Doreen Yniestra 11/17 Jury duty
7. Requests for Leave Without Pay
Boggs, Deborah Brentwood El 12/3-5 Illness
Boudreaux, Susan Warrington El 11/17,18 Personal
Brown, Linda Longleaf 12/3 Personal
Brye, Mary Warrington El 1/5-6/2/98 Personal
Calloway, Tammy Bratt 11/17-12/15/97 Maternity
Collinsworth, Traci Hallmark 11/14 Personal
Cooper, Dawn Judy Andrews 11/17,21 Illness
Fellgren, Kathy Warrington El 11/25,26 Personal
*Godwin, Jennifer Ferry Pass M 12/1/97-1/9/98 Maternity
Godwin, Shirley Tate 12/5 Personal
Hartfelder, Susan Warrington M 11/21 Personal
Jordan, Michael Ransom 11/26 Personal
King, Hugh Ferry Pass M 12/1-5 Personal
Leonard, Melinda Judy Andrews 11/21 Personal
Long, Corrie Navy Point 12/2 Illness
*Madison, Sandra Pine Forest 1/26-6/22/98 Personal
Mangum, Anndreze Brentwood El 11/17-12/1 Illness
McFadden, Dawn Westgate Ctr 11/18 Illness
Peek, Christina Judy Andrews 11/20,21,25,26 Illness
*Pote, Margaret Myrtle Grove 1/6-2/13/98 Illness
*Pride, Edith Dixon 1/5-30/98 Illness
Rohr, Carolyn Pensacola 12/1-5 Illness
*Seabrooke, Nancy George Stone 1/5-30/98 Maternity
Snee, Charles Pine Forest 11/25,26 Personal
Sykes, Chanda Tate 12/8,9 Illness
Wallace, Tamela Lipscomb 11/13,14,18;12/1 Illness
Warwick, Kellie Navy Point 11/26 Illness
Watson, Andrea Montclair 12/10-15 Illness
Wiggins, Janice West Pensacola 11/25,26 Illness
Wolfe, Heather Pine Forest 11/26 Personal
Yelder, Vicki Brownsville 11/18-26 Illness
*FMLA
8. Special Requests
(1) Approved the following appointments with assigned paygrade on the professional salary schedule:
Bolter, Louis Physical Therapist 1/5/98-6/30/98 PG 18/6
Vail, Kathy Title I Social Worker 1/5/98-6/30/98 PG 10/1
(2) Approved request to employ Amy Merker to provide speech language therapy to eligible students at the Escambia River Outward Bound Program effective January 9, 1998. Ms. Merker will be working an additional 2 ½ hours per week and is to be paid at her regular hourly rate of pay.
B. Non-Instructional
Approved:
1. Appointments
R-Replacement N-New Position A-Additional Position V-Vacant Position
NAME CLASSIFICATION EFF DATE LOCATION
Bonner, Latana R School Data Spec II 12/15/97 Brownsville
Jerralds, Viola(PRO) R Admin School Sec I 12/12/97 Wedgewood
Mundy, Margaret (PRO) R Admin School Sec II 1/20/98 Byrneville
2. Resignations
Bowen, Ourania (RET) Tea Asst Special 12/31/97 Workman
Burnham, Ellis (RET) Storekeeper Tech II 12/31/97 Warehouse
Foster, Douglas Custodial Worker I 12/19/97 Woodham
Hennis, Deborah Food Ser Asst I 12/30/97 Lincoln Pk
Holley, Thelma (RET) Teacher Assistant 12/31/97 Brent Elem
Jensen, Patricia(RET) Admin Clerk II 12/31/97 Tate
Johnson, Jennifer Teacher Assistant 1/6/98 Juv Det
Johnson, Ouida (RET) Food Ser Asst I 1/11/98 FP Middle
Jones, Mary (RET) Custodial Worker I 12/19/97 Warr Elem
Koester, Barbara Early Child Asst 12/11/97 McMillan
Morgan, Carolyn (RET) Admin School Sec I 12/31/97 Byrneville
Reynolds, Margaret (RET) Teacher Asst Spec 12/31/97 Brent Elem
Smith, Altamese (RET) Admin Sch Sec II 12/8/97 George Stone
Smith, Patty L Food Ser Asst I 1/5/98 H Caro
Womack, Daisy (RET) Custodial Worker I 12/31/97 Admin Bldg
3. Terminations
Watford, Loretta School Bus Oper 1/9/98 Transp
4. Suspensions
None at this time.
5. Dismissals
Admin Secretary II, Employee # 263-84-6025, dismissed in bad standing effective 12/5/97.
6. Leave of Absence
Adams, Eulaine Cust Worker I 1/5/98-1/31/98 Medical
Cobb, Dushan Teacher Asst 1/7/98-4/30/98 Medical
Coleman, Kimberly E Childhood Asst 1/5/98-2/16/98 Medical
Dawson, Mary(EXT) E Childhood Asst 12/6/97-1/6/98 Personal
Frye, Ollie(EXT) Tea Asst Special 1/7/98-2/1/98 Medical
Hall, Sally Teacher Asst 1/9/98-2/20/98 Medical
Henry, Janie(EXT) Sch Finance Spec 12/1/97-5/31/98 Medical
King, Mary Jane Cust Worker I 1/5/98-2/6/98 Medical
Lindsey, Janice Tea Asst Spec 1/5/98-1/30/98 Medical
Lyons, Sheila(EXT) School Bus Oper 1/24/98-10/30/98 Medical
Pate, Frances School Bus Oper 1/12/98-1/12/99 Personal
Richardson, Cathy Tea Asst Special 1/17/98-4/1/98 Personal
Smith, Altamese(EXT) Admin Sch Sec II 1/1/98-2/28/98 Medical
Smith, Cassandra Admin Clerk II 1/5/98-5/28/98 Prof
Walker, Phyllis(EXT) Admin Clerk II 1/8/98-5/28/98 Personal
Wilks, Vernender Teacher Asst 12/17/97-1/6/98 Medical
7. Special Request
Approved termination of the indefinite suspension for employee#261-19-9701, effective January 7, 1998. Employee was suspended pending a court decision for felony charges. The charges were dismissed.
VI. FINANCE
Approved:
1. Authorization for payrolls and vouchers for the month of February 1998.
(Housed in Finance Department)
2. Check Registers for the months of November and December 1997.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit C)
3. Financial Statements for the months of November and December 1997.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit D)
4. Authorized payment of $3,485.29 to Louis F. Ray, Jr., Attorney & Mediator, for legal services performed during the month of December 1997.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit E)
5. Authorized payment of $5,372.74 to the legal firm of Hammons & Whittaker, P.A., for legal services performed during the month of December 1997.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit F)
6. Authorized payment of $310.00 to Arthur A. Shimek, P.A., for legal services performed as Hearing Officer for expulsion of student number 98-59-951.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit G)
7. Budget Amendments: BA #4, PART I, General Operating Fund; BA #4, PART IV, Special Revenues - Other; BA #4, PART III, Capital Outlay Fund. Approved reallocation of $4,300.00, capital outlay funds, from SBA interest to Tate High School for truck purchase (this transfer will be reflected on the next capital outlay budget amendment).
Dr. DeWitt stated that he had met with parents of Woodham High School students, who were concerned that the baseball bleachers, which were removed due to safety problems, would cost approximately $6,300 to replace. He made a motion requesting that the Superintendent "find" the money, whether it be residual balances, etc., to assist in this project. Motion was seconded by Mrs. Webb.
Mrs. Morris stated she could not support this, since other schools in the district actually funded such projects with assistance from booster clubs, etc. Mr. Bailey agreed with Mrs. Morris, citing an example of a booster club performing fund raisers for such a purpose.
Chairman Jenkins asked Dr. DeWitt if he would be agreeable in changing this to perhaps, a loan.
Mrs. Morris stated she could remember an occasion before, when the district loaned money to Woodham.
Chairman Jenkins stated that the maker and seconder of the motion agreed to insert the word "loan" for this request for $6,300 for Woodham High, with the repayment time to be negotiated. The motion was approved unanimously.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit H)
8. Resolution requesting the issuance of $9,000,000 State Board of Education Lottery Revenue Bonds.
Mrs. Webb stated that although she understood there was a stringent time line for this resolution, she would still prefer more time to review requests which require Board action. This item was approved under the consent agenda.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit I)
VII. PURCHASING
Backup material filed in Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit J.
Approved:
A. AWARD BIDS
1.0 Schools
"No Items Submitted"
2.0 Administrative Departments
2.1 Printing Supplies, Bid #10-98 (Print Shop)
2.2 Catalog Discount Bid, Bid #98-01 (Santa Rosa, Bay, Okaloosa, and Escambia Counties School Districts Joint Bid)
2.3 3/4 Ton Pick-up Truck, Bid #19-98 (Applied Technology and Adult Education - Tate High School)
3.0 Maintenance and Transportation
"No Items Submitted"
4.0 Central Warehouse
4.1 Freezer Truck Body, Bid #14-98
4.2 Annual Purchasing Agreement for Classroom and Office Supplies, Bid #11-98
4.3 Annual Art Supplies, Bid #12-98
5.0 School Food Services
"No Items Submitted"
6.0 Facilities Planning
6.1 Reroofing Field House at Carver Middle School
B. AUTHORIZATION TO NEGOTIATE AND PURCHASE
1.0 Schools
1.1 Pentium 200 Microcomputers for Tate High School
The following speaker was recognized:
Mr. Patrick Corkill, 6601 North Davis Highway, Pensacola, Florida 32504, expressed his disappointment in the Purchasing Department's bid process.
2.0 Administrative Departments
2.1 Employee Basic Life and Optional Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance (Risk Management)
3.0 Maintenance and Transportation
"No Items Submitted"
4.0 Central Warehouse
"No Items Submitted"
5.0 School Food Services
"No Items Submitted"
6.0 Facilities Planning
6.1 Theater Style Seating at Woodham High School
C. MISCELLANEOUS
1.0 Schools
"No Items Submitted"
2.0 Administrative Departments
2.1 Authorization to Purchase Appliances with Trade-ins for Various Schools (Voc., Adult & Comm. Educ.)
2.2 Change Order #1 to Purchase Order #164227 (Risk Management) (Vincam)
2.3 Contract Amendment with IBM (Technological Systems/MIS)
This item contained a refund in the amount of $32,433. Mrs. Webb suggested these funds be used to purchase terminals which could be used for public information, in a read only mode, in order to indicate to the public the district's intent of being open with their information.
The following speaker was recognized:
Dr. Hal Mason, 828 Gordon Avenue, Pensacola, Florida 32507, expressed his support of being able to access such information by terminals.
Superintendent May responded that, as he had indicated in yesterday's workshop, he had requested this refund to be placed in the General Fund, due to the amount currently available in the district's unrestricted balances. This item was approved under the consent agenda.
3.0 Maintenance and Transportation
"No Items Submitted"
4.0 Central Warehouse
"No Items Submitted"
5.0 School Food Services
"No Items Submitted"
6.0 Facilities Planning
6.1 Change Order #5 to Purchase Order #100998 (Gulf Coast Paving & Grading)
6.2 Change Order #5 to Purchase Order #147666 (W. R. Johnson Inc.)
6.3 Change Order #2 to Purchase Order #164229 (Parks, Palag & Noblin, Architect)
VIII. FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE
Approved:
A. FACILITIES PLANNING
1. FINAL PAYMENTS:
a. IRRIGATION SYSTEM AT WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
Authorized final payment in the amount of $1,935.00 to Wallace Sprinkler and Supply, contractor, on the above project.
P. O. #163908 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $13,350.00
b. CURTAIN WALL REPLACEMENT AT TATE HIGH SCHOOL
Authorized final payment in the amount of $32,683.00 to Larry Hall Construction Company, contractor, on the above project.
P. O. #156939 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $326,831.00
c. CURTAIN WALL REPLACEMENT AT TATE HIGH SCHOOL
Authorized final payment in the amount of $1,143.02 to Bullock-Tice Associates, architect, on the above project.
P. O. #152786 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $35,170.00
d. LOCKER ROOM PIPE REPLACEMENT AT RANSOM MIDDLE SCHOOL
Authorized final payment in the amount of $34.39 to Bullock-Tice Associates, architect, on the above project.
P. O. #154366 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $13,757.00
e. ASBESTOS ABATEMENT AT OAKCREST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Authorized final payment in the amount of $1,230.00 to Aztec Environmental, contractor, on the above project.
P. O. #166331 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $12,300.00
f. CLASSROOMS AND SUPPORT FACILITIES AT WORKMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL
Authorized final payment in the amount of $948.00 to W.R. Johnson, Inc., contractor, on the above project.
P. O. #147666 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $1,420,991.00
2. MISCELLANEOUS:
a. YEARLY ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
Approved the ranking of firms for providing architectural services under a yearly contract with option of two (2) twelve month extensions and granted permission to negotiate with highest ranking firm.
1. Caldwell Associates
2. Quina/Grundhoefer/Royal
3. Bullock-Tice Associates
4. Heffernan Holland Architecture
5. Baskerville-Donovan, Inc.
b. YEARLY LAND SURVEYING SERVICES
Approved the ranking of firms for providing land surveying services under a yearly contract with option of two (2) twelve month extensions and granted permission to negotiate with highest ranking firm.
1. Southern Surveying, Inc.
2. Fabre Engineering
3. Baskerville-Donovan, Inc.
c. YEARLY GEOTECHNICAL AND SUBSURFACE INVESTIGATION SERVICES
Approved the ranking of firms for providing geotechnical and subsurface investigation services under a yearly contract with option of two (2) twelve
month extensions and granted permission to negotiate with highest ranking firm.
1. Larry M. Jacobs & Associates
2. Professional Service, Inc.
3. ASC Geosciences, Inc.
Mrs. Webb stated that she would be registering a NO vote on each of the above three items due to the fact that she believed the district was not following statutory requirements.
d. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
Approved PROPOSAL 1 - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS for One-half Cent Sales Tax Referendum Revenue.
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit K)
e. PROJECT PRIORITY REPORT
Request board approval of the 1998 Educational Facilities Project Priority List and the following three (3) spot surveys as required by the DOE.
1. Escambia High School
2. Pensacola High School
3. Pleasant Grove Elementary School
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit L)
B. MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT
"No items submitted."
IX. CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION AND TRANSPORTATION
Backup materials filed in Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit M.
Approved:
1. Title VI, Innovative Education Program Strategies Application.
2. Exceptional Student Education Discretionary Projects Grant (Shared Services Network)
Mrs. Webb stated she would be registering a NO vote on this item, due to concerns with the shared services grant and their intent to become a taxing authority as a means of funding their services.
3. Extended Access to Library Media Services Grant.
4. Pensacola Junior College/Escambia County School District, Tenth Grade College Readiness Agreement.
5. ESE Diploma, Option 2.
6. Florida Department of Education Project Application Summary Center of Automotive Emphasis Retrofit Grant.
7. GED Fee Increase.
8. Interagency Agreement Between the Escambia County School Board and the State of Florida Department of Health, Escambia County Health Department.
X. INTERNAL AUDITING
Approved:
A. INTERNAL FUNDS
1. Barrineau Elementary for fiscal year 1996-97
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit N)
2. Bellview Elementary for fiscal year 1996-97
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit O)
3. Ensley Elementary for fiscal year 1996-97
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit P)
4. Hallmark Elementary for fiscal year 1996-97
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit Q)
5. C. A. Weis Elementary for fiscal year 1996-97
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit R)
B. PROPERTY CONTROL
1. Recommendation to cannibalize and scrap property
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit S)
2. Recommendation to sell to the highest bidder and/or scrap items
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit T)
3. Removal of stock items from record
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit U)
IV.-X. CONSENT AGENDA
The consent agenda was unanimously approved, with the exception of a separate motion on Item VI.7., and NO votes registered by Mrs. Webb on Items VIII.2 a. b. and c., and Item IX.2.
XI. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
Backup information for expulsions filed in Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit V.
1. FOR INFORMATION ONLY - PTA Presentation
Mrs. Frances Yeo informed the Board of several PTA planned activities for the month of February, including the "Reflections" reception on February 5, at 6:30 p.m., and the Founder's Day Luncheon, planned for February 18, at 11:30 a.m.
Motion was made by Mrs. Morris, seconded by Dr. DeWitt, to accept the Superintendent's recommendations on items 2 through 12, 14, and 16 through 24. The motion was unanimously approved.
Motion was made by Mrs. Morris, seconded by Mr. Bailey to appoint formal hearing officers for items 13 and 15. The motion was unanimously approved.
2. Recommend that the indefinite suspension, pursuant to Section 232.26(2), Florida Statutes, of student number 98-44-411, be terminated in that the student was found not guilty of felony charges. I further recommend that the student be authorized to return to regular school of enrollment.
3. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the formal hearing officer, student number 98-59-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 school year and that the student be provided an alternative education program to be available at the discretion
of the Superintendent of Schools during the period of expulsion, depending on the qualifications of the student and the availability of such a program.
4. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-87-151 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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 98-90-866 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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 98-91-866 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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 the indefinite suspension, pursuant to Section 232.26(2), Florida Statutes, of student number 98-96-521, be suspended from all classes of instruction on public school grounds only from the date of notification to the school of pending felony charges which such indefinite suspension to end at the conclusion of the criminal proceedings. Those proceedings have now been concluded. Because the felony charges have been resolved without a finding that the student committed the delinquent act, the student may now be authorized to re-enter regular school enrollment effective commencement of the second semester of the 1997-98 school year. Pending return to regular enrollment the student continues to be authorized to attend an alternative educational program.
8. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-101-2032 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 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 98-102-2032 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 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 98-103-2032 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 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 98-104-2032 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 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 98-108-411 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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 98-109-151 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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 98-111-281 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and the first semester of the 1998-99 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 98-114-866 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 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.
16. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-120-281 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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 98-122-851 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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.
18. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-124-1221 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 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 98-125-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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.
20. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-126-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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.
21. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, pursuant to the authority of Section 232.26(2), Florida Statutes, student number 98-133-851 be suspended from all classes of instruction on public school grounds during regular classroom hours until such time as the pending criminal charges are concluded, at which time the Superintendent will make further recommendation regarding suspension, expulsion, or re-enrollment of this student. The indefinite suspension provided herein shall not affect the delivery of educational services to the pupil, and the pupil should be immediately enrolled in a day-time alternative educational program.
22. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-134-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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.
23. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-138-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year and all of the 1998-99 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.
24. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-141-1231 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 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.
25. Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County and Escambia County regarding Bob Sikes Bridge tolls and passes for school buses.
Mrs. Morris made the following speaking motion: "We discussed this at length yesterday, and after researching the matter, I was not aware that the agreement had been made between the county and the school district. I did not know that the answer had come back as it did. My motion will be to accept the Superintendent's recommendation, but later on at some time to work with the county on the possibility of sharing some of the MSBU taxes." She further stated that while the media had indicated that we receive benefit of these monies, we in fact do not. Mr. Bailey seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved.
Superintendent May requested from Chairman Jenkins a consensus from the Board whether to proceed with the proposal of the contracting of Pre-K services. He further stated that he needed this consensus, so he could properly direct his staff.
Dr. DeWitt moved that the Board inform the Superintendent that they were not in interested in pursuing the privatization of our Pre-K program. Motion died for lack of a second.
Upon the Superintendent's request, Mr. Wayne Odom, Director of Title I, addressed the Board, stating this proposed Pre-K program would actually take the place of one of those school based sites, instead of providing an additional program. After much discussion, Mrs. Morris moved to not pursue this pilot program, seconded by Dr. DeWitt. Mrs. Webb made a substitute motion, to continue the study of this proposal, just the study. Mr. Eugene Pettis, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction and Transportation, stated this was to make the Board aware of the State's direction with regard to these programs, and receive direction from the Board for our district. Mrs. Webb withdrew her substitute motion. The previous motion by Mrs. Morris, seconded by Dr. DeWitt was approved unanimously.
XII. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD
1. Item from Mrs. Webb
Mrs. Webb stated she was concerned with our current budget presentations and process. She suggested that we have more lengthy presentation, perhaps from each department.
Mrs. Morris commended the Budgeting Department for their past presentations. She stated that Mr. Odom and Mrs. Wascom did an excellent job in presenting this information to the Board. Mrs. Webb agreed with Mrs. Morris, but indicated she would like more detailed information on individual departments.
2. Item from Mrs. Webb
Mrs. Webb indicated she would defer this request, which was regarding proposal for disposal of real property, until such a time that she could discuss this with Dr. Epperson.
3. Item from Mrs. Webb
Mrs. Webb stated this item was regarding the Auditor General's audit findings, but she was willing to wait until they had received the proper responses.
4. Item from Mr. Bailey
Mr. Bailey stated he had some real concerns regarding the Charter School. As he expressed during yesterday's workshop, he has not been able to obtain the audit report on this school, since it is not complete. Mr. Bailey further stated he had asked the Superintendent if anyone had contacted him regarding opening another charter school, and Mr. May indicated no one had. He stated that upon receipt of the audit report on the Charter School, he would make a decision as to his recommendation and/or support of the school.
XIII. ITEMS FROM THE ATTORNEY
Mr. Ray informed Chairman Jenkins he would not be available to attend the Facilities Workshop on February 20. He stated Mr. Joseph Hammons will be available to attend, however.
XIV. REQUESTS TO APPEAR
1. Mr. Philip McDaniel, 428 Scooter Lane, Milton, Florida 32583, referred to the minutes of the April 22, 1997 Board Meeting, with regard to the proposed distribution of the supplemental booklet by Dr. Kent Hovind, "Are You Being Brainwashed by Your Science Textbook?" Mr. McDaniel questioned why this distribution had not taken place. Superintendent May stated that these booklets were sent to a school; students were informed of their availability, along with the permission slips required for them to obtain a copy. Mr. May stated no permission slips were returned, and he considered the district's obligation fulfilled.
XV. PUBLIC FORUM
1. Ellen Lawrence, 4850 Woodcliff Drive, Pensacola, Florida 32504, expressed her appreciation for the team efforts in Collaborative Collective Bargaining. She stated the recent workshop, with a team of facilitators from Pinellas County, was very successful.
2. Ken Norris, 4400 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola, Florida 32503, requested the Chairman to have his counsel explain the procedures and format for conduct of a public hearing. He further requested information on how to appeal Board actions. Mr. Ray stated the best practice was to notify the Board that you wished to address them, however, this Board customarily allows the public to do this by public forum. Mr. Ray informed Mr. Norris the appeal process was outlined in Florida Statute 1.20.
3. Eugene Ragland, 215 East Olive Road, Pensacola, Florida, expressed his concern regarding the Simplex Corporation maintaining the fire alarm systems for the district, and the bid process utilized.
4. Trecia Benefield, 5790 Hermosa Circle, Pensacola, Florida 32526, expressed her concern regarding transportation of special needs children, and the delays they experienced in being transported to special centers. Mr. Pettis stated he was aware of Mrs. Benefield's concerns; they had met previously regarding this issue, and would continue to attempt to resolve any concerns she may have.
XVI. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
Attest: Approved:
_______________________________ ________________________________
Superintendent Chairman