ESCAMBIA COUNTY, FLORIDA
The School Board of Escambia County, Florida, convened in Workshop Meeting at 9:05 a.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
I. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 9:05 a.m. by Chairman Jenkins.
II. COMMENTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT
1. Superintendent May advised that a presentation was added to the workshop agenda regarding a new charter school proposal. He stated that he had asked Mr. Charles Thomas, Director of Alternative Education, to review the proposal to see if it followed State guidelines, and determine whether it would provide equal or better educational opportunities than what the District currently provides. He said there were five speakers present to address the issue. Chairman Jenkins stated with consensus of the Board, the matter would be addressed at this time rather than in public forum.
Mr. Thomas advised that several weeks ago, Board Members were provided documents including a copy of the charter school application by Beulah Academy of Science, a model contract for charter schools, related Florida laws, and an attorney's review of charter school law. He referenced a memorandum provided to the Superintendent and Board Members last week providing input from different departments concerning the application, and he noted there was very little evidence to support that there was a focus on improving student performance, and did not appear to propose anything so unique or different that would necessarily enhance student performance. He noted an agricultural component was proposed, which is already offered at Bailey Middle School, Ransom and Ernest Ward, so there was not a particular emphasis that demonstrated a need will be met that the District is not already meeting. Mr. Thomas cited concerns with the application in terms of meeting charter school objectives, as follows:
1) There was not evidence of a direct focus on students who are academically low-achieving.
2) Relative to innovative learning methods, the application listed a number of strategies, but all or most of the middle schools are using some or many of the strategies in methods of instruction.
3) Concerning learning outcomes and innovative measurement tools, a personal education plan was proposed for each student as a practical assessment method; however, there is already a state requirement that schools design an Academic Improvement Plan (AIP) to assist students in meeting proficiency and performance levels.
4) There was not evidence indicating an effort to reach students of hard-to-reach families.
5) Concerning ethnic and racial makeup, the charter would be open to all students in the District, but the proposed transportation boundary seemed somewhat exclusive.
6) The letters of support in the document are slanted toward not wanting students to go to Wedgewood Middle School.
7) The proposal to spend around $6,000 over three years for library materials would not seem adequate in providing materials to start up a school.
Mr. Thomas advised that a memorandum was provided by Mr. Greg Gibbs, Risk Management, concerning repairs needed at the facility, which would result in reduction of square footage which is already minimal for 100-150 students projected. He noted as the number of charter schools increase, the District will have to increase services, putting a greater demand on staff.
Mrs. Morris commented that dollars were provided (after the existing charter started up) for incidentals and a portion of those dollars went to the charter school, but the District spent a sizeable amount of money related to staff involvement and attorney fees, and a lot of things were not compensated. She requested that Board Members be provided the dollar amount spent initially, prior to the first charter coming to be. Mr. May requested that Ms. Patricia Wascom, Comptroller, assist in calculating those costs in order to provide the information to Board Members.
In discussion that followed, Mr. Thomas advised that by law, the District is allowed six charter schools, with three being conversion charters. The existing charter school, Escambia Charter School, was designed for disciplinary problem students who are at risk of academic failure and currently contracts with four agencies for that type of program at the high school level. He also advised that Dr. Jim Boggs was no longer a part of Escambia Charter School.
Upon inquiry from Chairman Jenkins, Mr. Thomas advised that the Wedgewood District encompasses the Beulah District. Chairman Jenkins said he did not see any letters of support from people in the Wedgewood area, and the proposal should have shown more support from people in the entire District, including Wedgewood. Chairman Jenkins expressed that the charter school must meet the pupil assignment dictates of the Augustus civil rights case, and any new school, whether charter or not, should represent the ethnic makeup of the students in the total School District. After discussion, Mr. Ray noted the District is subject to the federal court case, and when the existing charter school was negotiated and approved by the Board, approval of the federal court was also obtained.
Ms. Sherry Bailey, 7250 Thor Lane, Pensacola, Florida 32526, member of the Charter School Application Committee, advised that the application was intended to convey compliance with state standards and did not elaborate as to the aspirations for the school, because that was the freedom given within the charter. She said information was provided to Board Members this morning responding to issues presented. In terms of transportation boundaries, she said the intent of the charter school was not to be exclusionary, but to encompass the community as a whole and would provide a year round school with an agricultural component. She expressed that agricultural programs as a whole have not typically drawn minority students, but efforts will be made to inform parents about career opportunities.
Dr. DeWitt inquired as to what would distinguish this program from the agricultural programs currently provided in three middle schools. Ms. Bailey responded that those agricultural programs were mostly offered as elective courses, and every student who attends the charter school would take the Exploratory Introduction and Orientation to Agriscience, which will incorporate all sciences.
Mrs. Webb asked for clarification as to when the application was submitted and whether the time frame for review could be extended. Mr. Thomas said state law requires that charter school applications be submitted to the School District by February 1, and the Board has to act on it within sixty days thereafter. He noted the application was submitted in a timely fashion and staff had reviewed some of it and made copies for distribution; however, Ms. Bailey provided additional copies of a revision, and the complete package was distributed to Board Members for review around the end of February. Mr. Ray commented for future reference, staff could send a copy to the Superintendent and Board Members for information purposes upon receipt. Following brief discussion, Mr. Ray said an extension of 30 days could be granted by the applicant to allow additional time for the Board to thoroughly examine the application.
Upon inquiry by Mrs. Morris, Ms. Bailey noted the first year (in the application) should reflect 1998/99, not 1997/98. She noted efforts will be made to maintain small class sizes, about 20 students per teacher. There will be five teachers, all Florida certified. The head teacher/curriculum specialist and administrator will split duties and will also make the same salary. The head teacher/curriculum specialist will double as an instructor.
Mr. Bailey commented that any decision by the Board at this point could be changed in May, in that a House bill is pending relative to charter schools, which could provide extra money for buildings, transportation, and for each child enrolled. Mr. May noted those involved capital outlay dollars. Mrs. Morris discussed concerns that capital outlay funds are needed to take care of existing schools, and she expressed reluctance to take action until legislation is determined. Mrs. Morris commented that she loved the idea of a year round middle school, but had some concerns as to the functions of the school, in terms of an agricultural site and curriculum to be designed for hands on/exploratory focus. Ms. Bailey noted the program will encompass all the sciences with emphasis on agriculture. Greenhouses will be allowed, and access will be provided to a nursery. Concerning building accommodations, Ms. Bailey advised that they had negotiated with Beulah Baptist Church for a lease of $1,000 a month, and renovations are proposed to provide adequate class sizes. Donations have been acquired to fund the renovations. Mr. Bailey commented that the Board would need to see specifics that the building improvements and property would meet all of the state requirements. He inquired concerning transportation and leasing of buses. Ms. Bailey stated that a bus company in Jacksonville is going to allow an arrangement with no down payment and smaller payments up front in order to purchase new buses within the budget already allocated. Mr. Bailey noted for the record he was not related to Ms. Sherry Bailey, and that inquiries he had gotten from people interested in working at this school will be referred to Ms. Bailey.
Board Members discussed concerns regarding backup letters from people who had said they would not allow their child to go to Wedgewood. Ms. Bailey said there were three letters from people indicating they had a problem with Wedgewood. She said for the record that she respects the teachers at Wedgewood, and this is not an anti-Wedgewood movement. She said the charter school would not be competitive in a lot of the areas that Wedgewood offers, such as band, team sports, clubs, and extracurricular activities, as well as the curriculum that is being used. Ms. Bailey said she would provide a request in writing today for a thirty-day extension for review of the charter school application and that she would address any areas that were not explicit enough related to curriculum or generating support throughout the Wedgewood and Bellview community.
Mrs. Webb commented that the year round middle school was a unique component, which could be emphasized more heavily in the community as something that may cause some of the parents whose children are currently not in public elementary schools to perhaps reconsider and put their children back in public school year round. Ms. Bailey noted they have received 86 additional letters supporting the proposed charter school, and there are many students coming out of private school, home school, and children attending Ransom and Bellview who have expressed interest.
Mr. May discussed concerns including proposed salaries in the amount of $21,900 for Agriculture teachers, who usually start at close to $27,000 a year. He stated as a graduate of a four year agricultural program, he had concerns related to curriculum, in particular that the Explorations in Agriculture course, a 9th grade course, has a readiness factor in terms of science and math background that 6th and 7th graders are not going to be ready to do. He commented that the Escambia Charter School serves a need for students that we are not able to serve at the high school level, mostly kids that have been expelled. He said a middle school charter program could be a benefit if it was for the right group of students, maybe students we are currently sending to Redirections, and three or four other very expensive programs. He said his major concern was that if the program was not substantially different from what we have, we may be sending a message to Wedgewood and every other middle school that offers agricultural programs that would question whether the Board has a vote confidence in what they are doing currently. He said he would like to see a program that provided for a need of the District and developed another possibility of an alternative for middle school, but there were still questions concerning the curriculum with the agricultural program and the readiness factor. Ms. Bailey expressed that there are no other middle schools that have a year round program, and there are a lot of unmotivated, underachieving students that, if left as they are, will probably make it through the system and graduate, but will never find their full potential. Mr. May commented if the students they were seeking out were the unmotivated, underachieving students and offered an alternative program in accordance with that, those are things the District needs to provide another alternative, much like Escambia Charter School.
Mr. Bailey stated that Dr. Wayne Blanton, Executive Director of Florida School Boards Association, had previously addressed the Board to explain laws and regulations of the school system, and there have been rumors that the Board is breaking the law by meeting or talking to the Superintendent about what is coming on the agenda. He requested an opinion from the Board Attorney as to whether or not Board Members can meet with the Superintendent individually on any items pertaining to the agenda. Mr. Ray stated that can be done legally as long as the purpose is not to poll the Board and to build a consensus. Mr. Ray stated there were five individuals who had filled out speaking request forms concerning the charter school issue, and after he advised that no final decision would be made by the Board on the matter today or at the Regular Board meeting tomorrow night, Ms. Peggy Hidgon, Mr. Woody Chandler, Ms. Jamey Higdon, Ms. Lynda Meeks, and Ms. Sheree Kirksey indicated they did not wish to address the issue at this time.
RECESS
Chairman Jenkins called for a five minute recess at 10:35 a.m. and the meeting reconvened at 10:48 a.m.
2. PURCHASING CARD PRESENTATION
Mr. Barry Boyer, Purchasing Manager, reported that the pilot program ran from March through May, 1997, at five elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools and was very successful. Mr. Boyer explained the cost savings utilizing purchasing cards versus purchase orders. Transaction costs are between $50 to $100 per purchase order, compared to $5 to $25 utilizing purchasing cards. If implemented today, the potential administrative cost savings would be about $326,000 in savings system wide. These would be soft dollars which would represent gains in internal efficiency, utilization of staff, and cost control. The purchasing card is a credit card which is paid off every month with no interest rate, and no transaction will exceed $500. The principals will designate who they want to use the card, as well as the monthly limit for each person. Advantages of the purchasing card program include the principal's ability to respond to educational needs and obtain needed materials without having to wait for a purchase order, better utilization of financial resources, and lower transaction costs.
Mrs. Morris commented that the program was well received and there was nothing in the pilot program that was challenged under audit. She inquired as to why the limit was $500, and she suggested looking into the possibility of increasing that amount, possibly to $750. Mr. Boyer noted that capitalized expenses would require tracking by purchase order.
Mrs. Webb requested that the Superintendent bring to the Board those policies that implemented the pilot program and this program. Mr. Boyer said he would provide copies to Board Members of the policy and purchasing procedures used in the pilot program; however, there was no need to do a formal Board policy since it was well within the Superintendent's authority to implement. Mrs. Webb questioned possible involvement of School Advisory Councils in delegating how certain funds are expended. Mr. May said it was not likely that any principal would recommend that a School Advisory Council receive a purchasing card, and it would be his recommendation they do not.
Mrs. Webb discussed concerns as to violating procedures and that a suggestion was made to look at increasing the $500 cap, and she asked that the Board Attorney determine if a rule change is needed. Mr. Ray said he was not aware of any violations, and if the purchase limitation is within the Superintendent's authority, it would probably not require a rule change.
Mr. Boyer noted that individuals authorized to use the card will sign a statement of responsibility and personal liability for the use of the card. Misuse could lead to disciplinary action including dismissal and criminal prosecution. He advised that purchasing cards have been used in Santa Rosa, Dade, and Seminole Counties, as well as in federal government. Mr. Bailey commented that a similar card system was used in the District a number of years ago under the Transportation Department.
It was noted that Mr. Boyer had given a presentation to FASBO (Florida Association of School Business Officials) in January concerning the success of the pilot program, and Mr. May commended Mr. Boyer for being a leader in the state in this program. Mr. May noted this was an information item, as well as an opportunity to recognize staff for the creative and positive ideas they are implementing in this District. He stated that the program will be implemented after the Board Meeting tomorrow night unless the Board makes a motion and votes to do otherwise.
III. PROPOSED ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO SCHOOL DISTRICT RULES
A. Permission to Advertise
1. School District Rule 6Gx17-3.15
SCHOOL FACILITIES
(7) Acquisition and Disposal of Real Property
Mrs. Morris expressed concern that, if approved, this policy would mandate that two appraisals be obtained before the Board could acquire or dispose of any piece of property, regardless of its estimated value. She felt that the expense of obtaining two appraisals seemed unnecessary and that the Board has the authority to seek more than one appraisal at any time it feels it would be appropriate. Therefore she could see no reason to change the Board policy. Mr. Ray advised that it did not state that the School Board would have to pay for the appraisals, and that could be negotiated with the seller or the purchaser. Mrs. Morris also noted text under Item C should reflect educational plant survey, not educational plan survey. Dr. David Epperson, Assistant Superintendent for Facilities Planning and Maintenance, stated that State Administrative Rule requires one appraisal; however, he understood the direction of the Board was to have two appraisals. Mr. May stated there had been questions at a Board meeting concerning differences in appraisals on the Myrtle Grove property, and he had developed the policy at the direction of the Board to ensure those kinds of discrepancies did not reoccur. Dr. DeWitt suggested there should be a limit, because there may be individuals who wish to donate property, such as a $5,000 piece of property next to a school. Mrs. Webb asked that Mr. Ray determine whether there is anything in Florida Statutes requiring the Board to come up with a rule regarding acquisition and sale of real property. She requested that the information be provided for the Board Meeting tomorrow night.
Mrs. Morris stated that Blount was closed in the early 60's. We had an individual who wanted to buy the property, this was long before I was on the Board. The community did not want a nursing home facility in that site, so that was turned down. The District gutted the building removing everything that they could use. The asbestos removal was estimated in the thousands of dollars before we could tear it down. Because of the asbestos, most offers were to pay them a $100,000 to take the property off our hands. Since that property came under the ownership of an individual it came off of the tax exempt status and I would dare say that the property appraiser appraises that property for somewhere around $60,000 and that $60,000 has generated this Board some property taxes over the past few years so we are better off with selling that property. There has been a lot of misinformation circulated and for the record I would like my comments to be included in the minutes.
After discussion ensued related to Blount school property, Chairman Jenkins requested that the Board return to the regular agenda item.
2. School District Rule 6Gx17-1.08
SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCILS
Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb, Dr. Jo Alice Tarwater, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, advised that this was presented for intent to advertise. Mrs. Webb said she would make a standing request that copies of legal ads be provided to the Board in the backup with the agenda or as soon as possible, and she also requested notification as to which publications will be used.
Mrs. Morris commented that we were audited on having only 2/3 instead of 100% of each School Advisory Council membership to be representative of the school community. She said she would propose staying with 2/3 of the people (elected by their peers) to represent the areas in which they serve. She commented that principals have been accommodating in terms of providing flexible meeting times during the day and at night, but it has been difficult for working parents, and the members cannot send an alternate on their behalf. Guidelines also require that anyone missing three consecutive meetings can automatically be removed from the School Advisory Council. Pam Shelden, Director of Comprehensive Educational Planning, advised that attendance at School Advisory Council meetings plays a part in the five star school awards, and public school reports must also reflect the attendance of School Advisory Council members. She said the ruling from the Department of Education was that 2/3 was not in compliance with the spirit of the law, nor the legislation. Dr. DeWitt commented that policy should reflect state law, and he encouraged principals to convey to School Advisory Council members that their input is important, and attendance should improve. Ms. Shelden advised that a couple of things were written into the guidelines to inform the public about the meetings to generate greater interest and involvement; in addition, School Board Members could consider appointing members to the Council to help keep the representation correct. She advised that School Advisory Council elections are held each April in order to get them to the Board for approval in May and allow that transition period from May to June when the old Board may go off and the new Board may come on.
Mrs. Webb expressed that she felt that the School District rule had not been followed regarding committees. She said she had previously requested notification of committee meetings and had not been notified. She said she subsequently corresponded to the Superintendent concerning notification of all District committee meetings and requested copies of the minutes. Ms. Shelden stated that she had received nothing in writing requesting notification of meetings. Mrs. Webb questioned whether the guidelines proposed would become policy if adopted. Mr. Ray stated he had advised Mrs. Webb that the School Board policy she is referring to does not prevent the Superintendent from forming committees, but merely empowers the Board to form committees if it wishes to do so. The Superintendent can seek the help and input of various members of his staff and/or the public on issues such as this. The other issue is whether it is rule or policy. Mr. Ray said he had suggested that the rule be divided into both Board policy and Superintendent guidelines and the Board policy was appropriately reworded to authorize the Superintendent to enact those guidelines. He stated that guidelines are not inconsistent with Board policies, but go into much more detail than is required of Board policy.
IV. STUDENT TRANSFERS
Mrs. Morris requested that staff provide backup relative to seniors that were allowed transfers at this time of year. Chairman Jenkins noted that staff will provide that information.
V. HUMAN RESOURCES
A. Instructional
8. Special Requests
(2) Request approval for the following part-time instructors to be employed under School Board Rule #6G17-2.02(7) at George Stone in the Law Enforcement Program:
Name Date
Brown, Jon 3/03/98
Gilliard, Charles 2/23/98
McGlew, Richard 2/16/98
Mrs. Webb inquired as to the hourly wage for these instructors. Dr. Tarwater stated she would provide that information. Mr. May noted these are part-time instructors with one hour per person per week.
(4) Request approval of attached First Amendment to Escambia County School District Benefit Trust which allows the Trust to add Wellness Benefits.
Mrs. Webb inquired as to whether these monies come out of the District Trust. Mr. Charles Griffin, Director of Risk Management, said administrative services are part of the rate makeup that the actuary does every year so we know what to charge for benefits. As part of the rate makeup, this goes into the Trust, and the rates come from General Funds and Employee Funds.
(5) Request approval of attached contract between The Pensacola Civic Center and the Escambia/County School District for the annual retirement ceremony to be held June 1, 1998.
Mrs. Morris asked if this contract reflected an increased dollar amount on parking lot rental and other changes. Mr. May noted this contract did not reflect those changes and the District will not be charged the additional dollars. Mrs. Morris added that the District will have to buy insurance this year for the graduations.
VI. FINANCE
9. Request Board approval to advertise and hold Public Hearing for the purchase of six (6) additional school buses.
Upon inquiry from Mrs. Morris, Mr. Wallace Odom, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Business Affairs, advised that when monies are expended out of the 2 mill fund, particulary for school buses, the District has to indicate the number of buses to be purchased. He explained that the Property Appraiser had submitted a tax roll that was not accepted, and in the meantime we held a public hearing. The Department of Revenue advised that we could not change the tax roll number at that point; therefore, if the District plans to buy any more than the number of school buses originally advertised, another public hearing is required. Mrs. Webb requested that staff provide her with any copies of agency correspondence or other backup on this item.
10. Auditor General's Audit Report No. 13148 for the Escambia County District School Board fiscal year ended June 30, 1997.
Mrs. Webb inquired as to whether this item was submitted for Board approval. Mr. Ray responded that it was not an approval, but merely acceptance of the report and a direction to the Superintendent to implement whatever changes are reasonably necessary as a result of the report.
VII. PURCHASING
B. AUTHORIZATION TO NEGOTIATE AND PURCHASE
1.0 Schools
1.1 Network Cabling Installation at Pensacola High School (for 12 portables)
Mrs. Morris commented that construction is on line at Pensacola High School, and if the portables were temporary and would be moved out at some point, she would question expending funds for cable installation. Mr. Boyer noted these were requested by the principal. Mr. May said we do not anticipate that being the case within a three-year period and it would be unfair to the students to put them in an academic setting where they did not have the use of those facilities. 2.0Administrative Departments
2.2 Annual Renewal for Stop-Loss Insurance for Medical Claims (Risk Management)
Mrs. Morris commented that the initial letter she received indicated this was an increase, but it was actually a decrease. Mr. Griffin advised that the renewal of stop-loss insurance was an increase from $2.45 to $2.60 per person. He noted there was a letter in the backup concerning Item 2.4 (Annual Renewal for Medical/Health Administrative Services) which indicated an 11% increase, but that was negotiated with United Health Care to reflect a 6% increase, which was the first increase in three years.
2.4 Annual Renewal for Medical/Health Administrative Services (Risk Management)
Mrs. Webb discussed concerns that this was submitted as a late item without backup for review.
2.5 Microcomputers - (143) P233/MMX/32MB/2GB including (16) Ethernet adapter cards and (127) token Ring adapter cards (Technological Systems/MIS)
Dr. DeWitt noted there have been numerous bids for technology, and since the contract was bid, changes have occurred in the field of technology. He said he felt that it was time to look again at proposals to include local vendors. Mr. Boyer stated that the subcommittee for technology was addressing that issue. Mrs. Webb discussed concerns that this item was submitted late without backup information.
2.6 ATS/Comp and ATS/PAC Software for Risk Management
Dr. DeWitt inquired as to how this relates to the mainframe computer. Mr. Griffin stated that Risk Management is tied into the mainframe computer for purchasing purposes only, not for day-to-day operations which are done on personal computers for auto liability, general liability, and property, as well as the workers compensation system. Mr. Bill Bush, Director of Technological Systems and Management Information, advised that the software was expiring and support was needed in a timely fashion to make the transition. Dr. DeWitt spoke in favor of working toward having one department coordinate all the software to prevent duplication of effort. Mr. Bailey asked if staff knew of a local company called Lasting Impression Computers. He noted this is a minority-owned company, and efforts should be made to get minority businesses involved in local bidding.
5.0 School Food Services
5.1 Innovative Tech Microcomputer Equipment
Upon inquiry from Mr. Bailey, Mr. Boyer advised that the District is buying this equipment through the Santa Rosa County bid.
6.0 Facilities Planning
6.2 Network Cabling Installation at Brownsville Middle School (for 5 portables)
Mrs. Morris questioned expending funds for cable installation if the portables were going to be temporary. Mr. Boyer noted this was requested by the principal. Mr. May said we do not anticipate moving the portables out within a three-year period, and it would be unfair to the students to not have use of those facilities.
6.3 Architectural/Engineering Services for Swimming Pool Repairs at Washington High School
Mrs. Morris questioned the expenditure of almost $30,000 on this item. Mr. Ted Kirchharr, Director of Facilities Planning, advised that a pool consultant was brought in and that is the part that has already been completed and should have had a purchase order issued for it. He noted this came up during staff transition and should have been listed as an unauthorized purchase. This project involves a major rework on the filter and chlorination system for the pool, and the process has worked in conjunction with the staff at Washington High School.
C. MISCELLANEOUS
2.0 Administrative Departments
2.3 Authorization to Purchase Radio/Phones with Trade-ins for Risk Management
Upon inquiry from Mrs. Morris, Mr. Griffin advised that the three cell phones are for administration, not just Risk Management.
6.0 Facilities Planning
6.1 Change Order #3 to Purchase Order #164229 (Parks, Palag & Noblin, Architect)
Dr. DeWitt noted Board approval was given last month concerning this item. Dr. Epperson advised that last month the Board requested that an alternate (to add enclosure of covered walkways) be put into the construction document for Holm Elementary School, and the architect was coming forward with an additional fee request of $29,000 to do the additional design drawings, which is beyond the scope of work called for in the original contract. He noted the alternate had to be included before the master plan goes to Tallahassee for approval. Mr. May commented that heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems have to be added, so it is a major design change. Dr. Epperson noted there are two parts, the first being to pay for design services to include the alternate. When the project is bid, contractors will include costs on the alternate. Dr. DeWitt commented for future reference, one plan should be done (incorporating enclosure of covered walkways to begin with and not have to do an alternate) in order to do it right the first time.
6.2 Addendum to Annual Agreement to Provide Aluminum Canopies (Ventilated Awnings)
Upon inquiry from Mrs. Morris, Mr. Kirchharr advised that this involves installation of canopies over existing sidewalks, so there will not be a charge.
6.6 Unauthorized Purchase of Repair Services to Gas Line at Tate High School
Mrs. Morris inquired as to the amount the contractor was paying as a result of the unauthorized purchase. Mr. Kirchharr said he would get that figure, and that the contractor had assumed his rightful responsibility. He advised that the contractor had to go out on a Saturday to make sure the school was ready for Monday morning.
VIII. FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE
A. FACILITIES PLANNING
2. Miscellaneous
b. DRAINAGE EASEMENT AT NAVY POINT ELEMENTARY
Request Board approval of agreement between The School Board of Escambia County and Escambia County for a drainage easement at Navy Point Elementary School.
Mrs. Morris commented that a couple of years ago it was suggested to the principal that the District might be interested in a piece of property next to the school and without being brought to the Board, it was turned down, saying we did not need the space. Since that time, the Escambia County Utilities Authority and the county put in a holding pond next to the school. Upon request from Mrs. Morris, Dr. Epperson will provide a map showing where the easement would be located and whether it ties in with the flood area.
d. LEASE AGREEMENT SPRING STREET PROPERTIES
Request Board approval of lease agreement between The School District of Escambia County of "Spring Street properties."
Mrs. Morris noted that this is the third year of a contract that should have gone into effect two years ago and did not because it was delayed the initial year. The first year the District was supposed to receive $10,616 from the county because the county was going to do roof repairs. She questioned language under Item C referring to agreement by the county to maintain the premises, provide janitorial services, and complete ordinary repairs. Upon request from Mrs. Morris, Dr. Epperson will provide copies of the original agreement (that was approved by the School Board and sent to the county) in order to identify changes. Staff will also provide verification as to whether the county has paid anything to date, as well as clarification concerning insurance which would be paid jointly to the county and the School Board. Mrs. Morris commented that if the county has insurance for occupancy, rather than stipulating joint payment of insurance, she would like to see specifics as to what percentages the county would collect versus the District if we lost the whole building and they just lost office furniture.
e. LAND CONVEYANCE, BRONSON FIELD
Request Board approval of proposed language for the conveyance of the Bronson Field property to the School District of Escambia County.
Mrs. Webb discussed concerns that a letter to Representative Joe Scarborough had indicated that the Board had voted unanimously to support special legislation for the acquisition of Bronson Field from the U.S. Navy. She expressed that if, after completion of preliminary studies it was determined that Bronson Field was the best site, she would not have a problem with it; however, she felt that proper studies had not been done to determine whether or not that was the property we needed to pursue. She commented that she was concerned with the language set forth in this proposal, and she asked whether this represented a negotiated contract. Dr. Epperson advised that based on direction of the Board, this was an attempt to keep the process going. Mr. Kirchharr clarified that there has been no negotiation, no lease, and no contract entered into. He said the request is that we are asking that Congress give the Secretary the right to negotiate. He noted that legislation has not passed yet, but the Board has the right to delete or modify any language or provision in the legislation that they do not agree with.
Mrs. Webb noted text under Item C (recoupment) indicates that if the Secretary determined at any time that the real property conveyed pursuant to this section is not being used for the purposes specified in Section B, the Secretary may require the Board to pay the United States in an amount equal to the then current fair market value of the property as determined by the Secretary. Mr. Kirchharr stated he would assume there would be no point in the future in which the Board would not use that land for educational purposes.
Mrs. Webb expressed that Florida Statutes, Chapter 235, addresses acquisition of property with criteria that the site shall not be located within any path of flight approach of any airport. She commented as to concerns that air traffic noise during the course of the school day could seriously limit the amount of instructional time in the school. Dr. Epperson noted instruction has not been affected in numerous schools located in the vicinity of Pensacola Regional Airport; in addition, that has not been a problem for Myrtle Grove, Pleasant Grove, or Jim Bailey Middle School, and there is not a problem with the Bronson Field property in that respect.
Mrs. Morris noted at the February meeting she made the original motion to issue a vote of support by the Board to pursue the Bronson Field property, when legislation is written, that legislation can be brought back to the Board, but the Board needs to indicate it supports the idea of acquiring this property so the parties involved will be aware of that. She said this Board needed to say up front that it totally supported the concept of acquiring the property.
Chairman Jenkins recognized Mrs. Linda West, Administrative Secretary to the School Board, who advised that upon Mrs. Webb's request, she had reviewed the tape of the February 24, 1998, Board meeting and provided a verbatim transcript, not a synopsis, and she read a portion of the transcript relative to the Bronson Field issue.
Mr. Bailey said he wanted to clarify that in the past the Navy had used Bronson Field for helicopter operations, but that closed down three years ago, and there is no flight pattern there for the Navy. There is no runway where you can go east and west from Bronson Field to Sherman Field. Regarding the recoupment issue, Mr. Bailey asked the Board Attorney, who verified that the District now includes a reverter clause when the District disposes of a piece of property.
IX. CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION AND TRANSPORTATION
7. Implementation of Year Round Education Program at Allie Yniestra Elementary School.
Chairman Jenkins stated this item would be addressed at this time to allow the principal to answer any questions the Board may have. Upon inquiry from Mr. Bailey, Steve Marcanio, Principal, Allie Yniestra Elementary School, reported that there was a majority vote by the employees and parents in support of going to year round. Board Members spoke in favor of the year round proposal, and Chairman Jenkins noted that year round schools are preferable for schools with a high mobility rate, such as Yniestra, with a 70% mobility rate. Mrs. Webb inquired as to the cost factor on transportation. Mr. May stated that it depends on how many students use the intersession, and if every student uses the intersession, there is an increased cost factor; however, a good bit of that is offset because you can use those dollars like you would summer school dollars.
RECESS
After discussion, Chairman Jenkins called for a recess at 1:20 p.m. He stated that he would not be present for the 2:15 p.m. session and he asked that Vice Chairman DeWitt take over the meeting in his absence. The workshop reconvened at 2:15 p.m. with Mrs. Morris, Mrs. Webb, Dr. DeWitt, and Superintendent May present. Dr. DeWitt chaired the remainder of the workshop. School Board Attorney Ray was absent due to a previous commitment. Mr. Bailey entered at 2:20 p.m.
IX. CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION AND TRANSPORTATION
6. Roy L. Hyatt Environmental Center Environmental Education Grant.
Ms. Linda Hartmann stated that she had brought Jonathon, the screech owl, with her as part of the Bird of Prey Program which they are doing for instructional purposes. Mrs. Morris commended the faculty and staff for the many things they do emphasizing plant life, wild animals, and things of a historical nature including documents and 1800's style architecture. Mrs. Webb noted they also have a wonderful butterfly garden and herb garden. Ms. Hartmann announced their open house is scheduled for May 8-9, 1998.
X. INTERNAL AUDITING
A. INTERNAL FUNDS
1. Bailey Middle for fiscal year 1996-97
Mrs. Morris noted the audit finding was in violation of School Board policy, and it should be emphasized to the principals to follow Board policies. Dr. DeWitt inquired as to waiving the fees beyond six months for the church to meet at Bailey Middle School. Mr. May stated the policy is six months maximum. He also stated that any waivers to Board policy should come from the Board, and he will bring back a recommendation for Board consideration. Mrs. Morris noted they had been using the school for over a year, and this was an emergency situation where the church had burned; however, there was more to it concerning a fee which the school collected, not the District, and they are proposing to use that money for a sprinkler system at the school.
XI. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
Mr. May presented copies to Board Members of the additions and deletions to the Regular Board meeting agenda. He advised that a PTA presentation will be made at the Board meeting.
2. Recommending approval of the following administrative appointment effective March 2, 1998: Mr. Mark Pursell, Director of Maintenance, PG 14/1.
Mrs. Webb commented that she had received a letter from an individual who had applied for the Director of Maintenance position, and indicated he had submitted an application but was denied an interview. Dr. Epperson advised that based on specific criteria used in the screening process, the gentleman did not meet the screening requirements, and a letter will be sent to him in that regard. Mr. May noted there were 102 applicants for the Director of Maintenance job.
STUDENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Mr. May advised that there were 34 recommendations for expulsion, 18 of which involved fighting, and 9 involving drugs on or off campus. Under Item 26, student number 98-182-601 is requesting a formal hearing. Upon inquiry from Mrs. Morris, Mr. Darriel White, Court Liaison, commented concerning recommendations from the formal hearing officer, that the Board may accept or reject, but we have to look at all of the materials and Mr. Joe Hammons, Attorney to the Superintendent, would have to present findings of fact or conclusions of law in that regard.
Mr. May noted Item 40 was added to request Board approval to spend $15,000 for Law Engineering to conduct further soil testing at Northview High School to address concerns raised by parents who have conveyed that this would allay their fears. The tests will determine the presence of any cancer-causing agents and raised levels of chemicals in the soil. We do not anticipate that will be the case, since we have baseline data from prior testing that says everything was in proper levels at the time construction took place. Dr. Epperson advised that extensive testing was done at the site by the Department of Agriculture and Department of Environmental Protection in 1994, and further testing was done by Law Engineering in June, 1995, which established baseline data and the results indicated no levels in excess of normal levels expected for any type of chemicals on the site, and also indicated that adverse health effects were unlikely.
Mrs. Morris commented that in 1995 after the testing was done, and to get the property on-going, the District reached a settlement with an individual, who signed certain stipulations in order to receive settlement monies. She said she hoped the individual was abiding by that; however, if that is not the case, she will bring to the Board Attorney our rescinding that settlement and asking for repayment.
Mr. Bailey stated that in the event of a lawsuit pertaining to DEP or anything which could result if the analysis showed cancer-causing agents, he would like to see the Board hire the best attorney qualified in that field to represent the Board if we have to go to court.
Dr. Epperson advised that the testing would take a total of six weeks for data evaluation, report preparation, and sampling analysis.
Mrs. Webb requested that clarification be obtained in the contract language to distinguish the correct use of the terms disulfation and disulfoton. Dr. Epperson noted staff will check to make sure there is no discrepancy in the wording. Mrs. Webb requested copies of the test results done by Law engineering in 1995, as well as a copy of the related purchase order. Dr. Epperson stated the test results are on file, and he will provide that. Mrs. Webb inquired as to why we are asking the same company to test again. Dr. Epperson said it would be the Board's discretion to get another testing agency, but he did not see any problem going with Law Engineering. Mrs. Webb noted proposed contract language under scope of work, which says samples will be obtained in the subsurface soils (basically less than one foot), and concerns have been expressed as to whether that procedure was adequate to test some of the chemicals according to state and federal standards.
Mr. Bailey stated he would be coming back to the Board regarding safety concerns at three elementary schools (Lipscomb, McArthur, and Westgate) in terms of the landlocked situation preventing ingress and egress because of the railway system there. He said he had discussed the matter with Mr. May and the Board Attorney, in hopes that the Tate High School Agriculture Department may be able to grade some of the roads and provide a fire lane for emergency access purposes.
XII. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD
1. Department of Environmental Protection Investigation - Mrs. Webb
Mrs. Webb reported that this was addressed at a hearing where community members expressed concerns related to the herbicide/pesticide issue, as well as other safety issues. She commented there were concerns regarding the school bus route on top of the dam, which is over an area that allegedly has high levels of disulfoton. She informed the Board that Mr. Jack Kelly was present to answer any questions regarding the petition. Mr. Bailey inquired as to why this item was brought to the Board. Mrs. Morris commented that clarification was needed as to whether this item was presented for information or for Board vote, and she questioned the relevancy. During the course of discussion, Mrs. Webb received a cell phone call. Mrs. Morris indicated that if Mrs. Webb could not answer her questions, she would move to adjourn the workshop, and she so moved. Mr. Bailey seconded the motion, which carried 3-0, with Mrs. Webb not registering a vote, and the workshop was adjourned (see Item XV.).
XIII. ITEMS FROM THE ATTORNEY
This item was not addressed due to prior adjournment.
XIV. PUBLIC FORUM
This item was not addressed due to prior adjournment.
XV. ADJOURNMENT
The workshop adjourned at 2:48 p.m.