The School Board of Escambia County, Florida, convened in Regular Meeting at 7:02 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 given by Mrs. Morris, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Dr. DeWitt.

Superintendent May listed the additions and deletions to the agenda as follows:

III. PROPOSED ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO SCHOOL DISTRICT RULES

A. Permission to Advertise

ADD: 2. School District Rule 6Gx17-1.08

SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCILS

REVISION:

V. HUMAN RESOURCES

B. Non-Instructional Educational Support Personnel

VII. PURCHASING

B. AUTHORIZATION TO NEGOTIATE AND PURCHASE

2.0 Administrative Departments

2.4 Annual Renewal for Medical/Health Administrative Services (Risk Management)

SEE: AMENDED BACKUP

ADD: 2.5 Microcomputers - (143) P233/MMX/32MB/2GB including (16) Ethernet adapter cards and (127) Token Ring adapter cards (Technological Systems/MIS).

ADD: 2.6 ATS/Comp and ATS/PAC Software for Risk Management

C. MISCELLANEOUS

6.0 Facilities Planning

6.6 Unauthorized Purchase of Repair Services to Gas Line at Tate High School

SEE: AMENDED BACKUP

VIII. FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE

2. MISCELLANEOUS

e. LAND CONVEYANCE, BRONSON FIELD

ADD: Request Board approval of proposed language for the conveyance of the Bronson Field property to the School District of Escambia County.

IX. CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION AND TRANSPORTATION

DELETE: 4. Your School Advisory Council.

XI. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

CORRECT:

23. Recommend that the indefinite suspension, pursuant to Section 232.26(2), Florida Statutes, of student number 98-179-561, 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. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, pursuant to the authority of Section 232.26(2), Florida Statutes, student number 98-179-561 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.

37. Recommend that the indefinite suspension, pursuant to Section 232.26(2), Florida Statutes, of student number 98-209-411, 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. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, pursuant to the authority of Section 232.26(2), Florida Statutes, student number 98-209-411 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.

DELETE: 39. New Charter School Proposal - It was noted that this item was postponed until April.

ADD: 40. Proposal from Law Engineering for Soil Testing at Northview High School

NOTES:

XI.8 - Student #98-114-866, Request to address the Board

XI.26 - Student #98-182-601, Request Formal Hearing

XII. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD

REVISED:

1. DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION INVESTIGATION -

MRS. WEBB (BACKUP INFORMATION PROVIDED IN AGENDA BOOKS)

ADD: 2. ITEM FROM MRS. WEBB

ADD: 3. ITEM FROM MRS. WEBB

ADD: 4. ITEM FROM MRS. WEBB

ADD: 5. HORACE JONES SETTLEMENT - DR. JENKINS

Superintendent May asked Mrs. Rita Scallan, Financial Analyst for the School District, to come forward and be recognized as the Stellar Employee for the month of March. He commended Mrs. Scallan for her professionalism and loyalty to the District, and for being a role model as an employee of the District for the past eleven years. Mr. May congratulated Mrs. Scallan for this honor, and presented her with a plaque, a pin, and a check for $100 donated by the Members First Credit Union.

Mr. May also recognized the "Teacher of the Year" for Escambia County for the upcoming year, Ms. Gail Husbands, who was present in the audience.

I. ADOPTION OF AGENDA

Motion made by Dr. DeWitt, second by Mrs. Morris, to adopt the agenda as amended, was unanimously approved.

II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion made by Mrs. Morris, and seconded by Dr. DeWitt, to approve the minutes for the 2/20/98 Special Board Workshop, the 2/23/98 Regular Board Workshop, the 2/23/98 Special Board Meeting, the 2/24/98 Special Board Meeting, the 2/24/98 Regular Board Meeting, the 2/25/98 Special Board Meeting, and the 2/26/98 Special Board Meeting (with amendments for Board consideration as follows, submitted in writing by Mrs. Morris):

Mrs. Morris issued the following in the form of a motion for amendments to the minutes:

A) On the Advisory Council minutes for the Special Board Meetings of 2/23/98, 2/24/98, 2/25/98, and 2/26/98, include when Board Members or the Superintendent left meetings early and returned;

B) On the 2/23/98 Regular Board Workshop minutes, page 13, XIV. Public Forum, state that "the speaker was informed this was an Assistant Principal, not an Assistant Superintendent";

C) On the 2/24/98 Regular Board Meeting minutes, pages 8 and 27, where it states Chairman Jenkins called the question, it should read "Chairman Jenkins called for the vote"; on page 25, Item 36, the last paragraph needs to indicate the following amendment: "the Board needs to indicate it supports the idea of acquiring this property," not project; and on page 5, after the comment where it says Mrs. Morris commented, insert and replace the statement with that in July 1989, this Board adopted the rule for the Facilities Advisory Commission. In August 1991, the Facilities Advisory Commission, along with the School Attendance Zone Advisory Committee were charged with doing a study to recommend one or more sites for the new middle school on the southwest side. The Commission presented a report on the needs of the District in 1992 and an updated report in March 1993, and a Resolution... The rest of the statement would remain the same.

The motion to approve the amendments was seconded by Dr. DeWitt. Mrs. Webb stated there was not sufficient time to review the amendments. The motion carried 4-1, with Mrs. Webb voting NO.

Mrs. Morris reworded her prior motion to approve the minutes as amended. The motion was seconded by Dr. DeWitt. Mrs. Webb commented that the Board Minutes from last month included the hearing regarding educational facilities and during that hearing, she had made a request to submit items to be added as part of the record and that was not done according to School District Rule 110 and the 120 Statutes. She continued by stating that in her opinion, to vote on these minutes would be in violation of the Statutes. She stated that after the hearing, she had submitted it to Deputy Superintendent Jerome Watson. After discussion, Mr. Watson stated he had asked Mrs. Webb to bring this to the Board, as was the procedure approved by the Board. Mrs. Webb also commented that she could not approve the other minutes because she did not feel that they accurately reflected the summary of what occurred, as she has stated on several occasions at Board meetings for approximately a year. Chairman Jenkins said that if there was a legal problem with the minutes, he would ask that it be cleared through the Board Attorney.

Dr. DeWitt called the question, and the motion carried 4-1, with Mrs. Webb voting NO. Chairman Jenkins called for the vote, and the motion to approve the minutes as amended carried 4-1, with Mrs. Webb voting NO.

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

Motion made by Mrs. Morris and seconded by Mr. Bailey, to delete School District Rule 6Gx17-3.15, School Facilities (7) Acquisition and Disposal of Real Property. Mrs. Morris stated that this item was discussed at length at the workshop yesterday and she saw no need to comment further at this time. Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb, Mr. Ray advised that Florida Statutes require an appraisal when the property value is estimated to be over $100,000. If this rule were adopted by the Board, it would go beyond the requirements of the Statute. Chairman Jenkins called for the vote and the motion carried 4-1, with Mrs. Webb voting NO.

2. School District Rule 6Gx17-1.08

SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCILS

Motion made by Dr. DeWitt and seconded by Mrs. Morris, to advertise School District Rule 6Gx1.08 (School Advisory Councils). Mrs. Morris discussed concerns related to the State requirement for 100% of the members to be selected by their peers, noting Board policy had required 2/3. She said she will support updating the Advisory guidelines, but would go on record saying that she thinks it is going to be a difficult task on middle schools and high schools and could put an undue burden on principals because of the percentage of School Advisory Council members who do not attend.

Mrs. Webb stated the reason she would vote no was that the School District and the Board were in violation of School District Rule 1.07 in the development of this rule. Chairman Jenkins questioned the School Board Attorney as to whether the Board was in violation. Mr. Ray said he did not agree that the Board was in violation of the rule, which says the Board may appoint committees. He continued by stating that the rule does not say the Superintendent may not appoint committees, and as an elected Constitutional Officer, he has that right, so there is no violation of the School District Rule mentioned by Mrs. Webb. Dr. DeWitt called the question. Chairman Jenkins called for the vote, and the motion carried 4-1, with Mrs. Webb voting NO. Chairman Jenkins called for the vote on the main motion. The motion to advertise School District Rule 6Gx1.08 (School Advisory Councils) carried 4-1, with Mrs. Webb voting NO.

B. Permission to Adopt

"No Items Submitted"

IV.-X. CONSENT AGENDA

Motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Mr. Bailey and seconded by Mrs. Morris. The following items were pulled from the consent agenda: VIII.A.2.b and VIII.A.2.d. by Mrs. Morris; VI.10, IX.1, and IX.7 by Mrs. Webb; VIII.A.1.b and X.A.1 by Dr. DeWitt for separate motions; with NO votes registered by Dr. DeWitt on VII.B.2.5, VII.B.5.1, and IV. (student transfer from out-of-state to Washington High School); and NO votes registered by Mrs. Webb on VII.B.1.1, VII.B.5.1, VII.B.6.3, VII.C.6.1, Addition/Deletion Items IV. through X. and XI.40. Mrs. Webb stated that the Addition/Deletion items were submitted late, which did not allow sufficient time for review. Speakers addressed VI.10 and VII.B.5.1.

IV. STUDENT TRANSFERS

This item was approved as submitted under the consent agenda, with Dr. DeWitt registering a NO vote on the transfer of Laura Keigley from out-of-state to Washington High School, with his comments at last month's meeting as the justification for his no vote.

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit A)

V. HUMAN RESOURCES

A. Instructional

Approved:

1. Appointments

Lidell, Ingrid ESE/Speech 3/9/98 T Collinsworth, Resigned

2. Resignations

Furman, Laura Escambia 12/19/97

Hasty, Simon Data Center 03/20/98

McClarren, Ashley Pine Meadow 01/30/98

Seabrooke, Nancy George Stone 02/20/98

Young, Bruce Wedgewood 02/27/98

3. Retirees

None at this time.

4. Teachers Returning from Leave of Absence

None at this time.

5. Transfers

None at this time.

6. Requests for Leave With Pay

1998

Buck, Bonita Tate 2/9,12 Jury duty

Cain, Kevin West Pensacola 2/13 Subpoena

Chandler, Richard Tate 2/9 Jury duty

Clark, Eleanor Wedgewood 2/9,13 Jury duty

Cobb, Linda Warrington Elem 1/26 Jury duty

Crowder, Jean Westgate Ctr 1/20,27;2/3,10 Professional

Dombroskie, John Purchasing 1/6 Jury duty

Dubus, Deborah Sid Nelson 1/26 Jury duty

Durr, Sandra Brownsville 1/20 Jury duty

Gray, Anna Jim Allen 1/16 Jury duty

Green, Beverly Washington 1/26 Jury duty

Harvill, Susan Holm 1/20,27;2/3,10 Professional

Ingram, Paula Northview 1/26,30 Jury duty

Jackson-Williams, Madonna Warrington Mid 2/5 Professional/EA

Jernigan, Sandra Wedgewood 1/26 Jury duty

King, Lola Brentwood Elem 1/26 Jury duty

Ladner, Judith Dixon 11/24/97 Jury duty

Lorenz, Grace Molino 1/20 Jury duty

Meyer, Judith Westgate Ctr 2/9,11 Jury duty

Myles, Jan Weis 2/2,4,5 Jury duty

Neff, Susan Bellview Mid 1/20 Jury duty

O'Connor, Mary Edgewater 1/26 Jury duty

Pennewell, Janet Lipscomb 1/26 Jury duty

Pippen, Fred Brown Barge 1/20,26 Military

Pittman, Preston Montclair 2/6 Professional/EEA

Price-Williams, Donna Cook 1/26 Jury duty

Slayton, Judith Tate 2/2,6 Jury duty

Smith, Ariana Workman 1/21 Jury duty

Suarez, Kristi Pleasant Grove 1/26 Jury duty

Taylor, Rhonda Hellen Caro 2/5 Subpoena

Tompkins, Stefany Tate 1/26,28 Jury duty

Traxler, Julie Brentwood Elem 2/10 Subpoena

Washington, James Woodham 1/26 Jury duty

7. Requests for Leave Without Pay

*Alford, Jill Jim Allen 5/14,15 Maternity

Arnold, Rachael Lipscomb 2/5,6 Illness

Boudreaux, Susan Warrington Elem 2/5 Illness

Bradley, David Escambia 2/9,11 Illness

Burton, Kimberly Suter 1/22,23;2/13 Illness

Bzdick, Terri West Pensacola 1/30;2/3 Illness

Calloway, Tammy Bratt 12/16-19/97 Maternity

Camp, Willie Woodham 2/6 Illness

Clemons, Betty Brentwood Mid 1/5-16 Illness

Cole, Gloria Woodham 1/30;2/9 Illness

Collinsworth, Joanne Escambia 1/16,20-23 Illness

Collinsworth, Traci Hallmark 1/16,20,23 Illness

Cooper, Dawn Judy Andrews 2/3 Personal

Cox, Gene Yniestra 1/23 Personal

Cross, Lisa Byrneville 1/26-2/13 Maternity

Crow, Ellen Bellview Mid 2/10 Illness

Doty, Paula Oakcrest 2/13 Personal

Epperson, Mary Beggs 1/30 Personal

Epperson, Mary Beggs 1/23 Illness

Fellgren, Kathy Warrington Elem 1/27 Illness

*Fisher, Carolyn Navy Point 1/29-5/13 Maternity

Fletcher, Kathy Scenic Heights 1/30 Illness

*Frierdich, Christina Bailey 3/9-20 Maternity

Hardaway, Elaine Sherwood 2/13 Personal

Harrison, Avis Hallmark 2/5 Illness

Hasty, Simon Data Ctr 1/28-30 Personal

Hedin, Blythe Yniestra 1/28,29 Personal

Hill, Dawn Woodham 2/10 Personal

Hooper, Anne Warrington Elem 2/3-6 Illness

Hykes, Beverly Oakcrest 1/26-30 Personal

Israel, Kathleen Brentwood Elem 1/16 Personal

*Kennedy, Diane Scenic Heights 2/5,26-6/2/98 Personal

Killam, Cheryl Montclair 2/5,6 Illness

Krichi, Ahmed Homebound 1/29,30 Illness

Larson, Joyce Pine Forest 1/21-23 Illness

Leonard, Melinda Judy Andrews 1/29 Personal

Lincoln, Gary Warrington Mid 2/2 Illness

Lister, Opal Pine Forest 1/26-2/6 Illness

Lund, Rebecca Longleaf 1/21-23,29 Illness

Madison, Sandra Pine Forest 1/21-23 Illness

Mangum, Anndreze Brentwood Elem 2/4 Illness

Maraman, Pamala Navy Point 2/2 Personal

McFadden, Dawn Westgate Ctr 12/12/97 Illness

Mills, Dan Byrneville 2/11-13 Illness

Morris, Tonya Semmes 2/9-13 Maternity

Neron, Catherine Semmes 2/11 Personal

Peek, Christina Judy Andrews 1/20;2/9 Illness

Penton, Heather Navy Point 1/30;2/2,3 Illness

Pope, Larry Lakeview Ctr 2/9 Illness

Pride, Edith Dixon 2/6 Illness

Redman, Kelli Judy Andrews 2/2-13 Maternity

Reese, Joyce Juvenile Detention 1/22,26,27 Illness

Reese, Julia Scenic Heights 1/5-16 Personal

Renaud, Mary Ransom 2/2 Personal

Renfro, Rebecca Carver 2/10 Illness

Ryan, Cynthia Brownsville 2/6-11 Maternity

*Sanderson, Laura Bellview Elem 3/9-6/2/98 Maternity

Seabrooke, Nancy George Stone 12/16/97-1/30/98 Personal

Smith, Kimberly Pine Meadow 1/20,22 Illness

Spirakis, Sonja McMillan 2/2,3 Illness

Taylor, Angela Special Ed 1/16-2/13 Illness

Toy, Judy Scenic Heights 2/5,6 Personal

Wallace, Tamela Lipscomb 12/16/97;2/2.3 Illness

Warwick, Kellie Navy Point 1/27 Illness

Watson, Andrea Montclair 12/16/97-1/15/98 Maternity

Webb, Patricia Data Ctr 1/20-23,28-30 Illness

Wiggins, Janice West Pensacola 1/16,20,22,23 Illness

Wilson, David Weis 2/12 Illness

Wolfe, Heather Pine Forest 2/2 Illness

Woodward, Paula Woodham 2/2 Illness

Young, Bruce Wedgewood 1/30;2/6,12 Illness

*FMLA

8. Special Requests

(1) Request approval of the following appointment with assigned paygrade on the professional salary schedule:

Forester, Frances Programmer I 3/25-6/30/98 PG 6/1

(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

(3) Correct reappointment of Kelly McKinley, teacher at Longleaf Elementary to read eligible and recommended for professional service contract for the 1997-98 school year.

(4) Request approval of attached First Amendment to Escambia County School District Benefit Trust which allows the Trust to add Wellness Benefits.

(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.

B. Educational Support Personnel

Approved:

1. Appointments

R=Replacement

NAME CLASSIFICATION EFF DATE LOCATION

(PRO) Brown, Carlos R Cust Worker II 3/4/98 Hallmark

(PRO) Burgess, Wayne R Cust Worker II 3/2/98 Scenic Hgts

(PRO) Farmer, Shelby R Admin School Sec II 2/23/98 George Stone

2. Resignations

Cruz, Alma Admin Clerk II 3/20/98 Warr Middle

Davis, Charlotte Tea Asst Special 2/13/98 Navy Point

Dubose, Marteem Tea Asst Special 2/24/98 Suter

Fowler, Mona Food Ser Asst I 2/27/98 Brent Elem

Hawthorne, Minnie Early Childhood Asst 2/27/98 McMillan

(RET) Hill, Robert Cust Worker II 2/27/98 Hallmark

Leverette, Antonio Cust Worker I 2/27/98 Washington

Odoms, Ricky Cust Worker I 2/23/98 Tate

Robinson, Sharon Tea Asst Special 2/23/98 Navy Point

(RET) White, Adelia School Bus Oper 2/16/98 Transp

(RET) Whited, Agnes Tea Asst Special 2/23/98 Weis

3. Terminations

DeCrow, Sherry Food Ser Asst I 2/12/98 Escambia High School

4. Suspensions

None at this time.

5. Dismissals

Employee #595-01-2048, Food Service Asst I at Myrtle Grove Elementary, dismissed in bad standing effective 3/6/98.

6. Leave of Absences

Baker, Barbara Food Ser Asst I 3/2/98-5/29/98 *Medical

Brown, Dorothy Teacher Asst 2/4/98-5/28/98 *Medical

Emerson, Corida E Childhood Asst 2/2/98-1/26/99 Medical

Price, Pearl Teacher Asst 2/23/98-5/28/98 *Medical

Robinson, Katrina Teacher Asst 1/20/98-5/27/98 Medical

(EXT) Sams, Mary Food Ser Asst I 1/6/98-5/29/98 Personal

(EXT) Weaden, Glenda School Bus Oper 2/11/98-5/28/98 Medical

*Request leave as allowed under FLMA.

7. Special Requests

None at this time.

VI. FINANCE

Approved:

1. Authorization for payrolls and vouchers for the month of April 1998.

(Housed in Finance Department)

2. Check Register for the month of February 1998.

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit B)

3. Financial Statement for the month of February 1998.

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit C)

4. Authorized payment of $1,875.57 to Louis F. Ray, Jr., for legal services performed during the month of February 1998.

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit D)

5. Authorized payment of $5,039.98 to the legal firm of Hammons & Whittaker, P.A., for legal services performed during the month of February 1998.

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit E)

6. Authorized payment of $729.00 to George Loomis for legal services performed as Hearing Officer for expulsion of Student Numbers 98-92-851, 98-93-851, and 98-95-851. (Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit F)

7. Authorized payment of $350.00 to John Allbritton for legal services performed as Hearing Officer for expulsion of Student No. 98-109-151.

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit G)

8. Authorized payment of $310.00 to Arthur Shimek for legal services performed as Hearing Officer for expulsion of Student No. 98-114-866.

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit H)

9. Approved advertising and scheduled a Public Hearing at 7:00 p.m. on April 28, 1998, to consider purchase of six (6) additional school buses.

10. Auditor General's Audit Report No. 13148 for the Escambia County District School Board fiscal year ended June 30, 1997.

This item was approved under the consent agenda. Mrs. Webb further moved that the Auditor General's Audit Report be added to the Strategic Planning Workshop for April. After relinquishing the gavel to Dr. DeWitt, Dr. Jenkins seconded the motion, which carried 4-1, with Mr. Bailey voting NO.

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit I)

11. Budget Amendments: BA #6, PART I, General Operating Fund; BA #5, PART IV, Special Revenues.

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit J)

VII. PURCHASING

Backup Material filed in Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit K.

Approved:

A. AWARD BIDS

1.0 Schools

"No Items Submitted"

2.0 Administrative Departments

"No Items Submitted"

3.0 Maintenance and Transportation

"No Items Submitted"

4.0 Central Warehouse

4.1 Annual Purchasing Agreement for Copier Supplies, Bid #20-98

5.0 School Food Services

"No Items Submitted"

6.0 Facilities Planning

6.1 HVAC Renovations at the Escambia Westgate Center

6.2 Installation of Walk-in Cooler/Freezers at Sherwood Elementary and Bellview Elementary Schools

B. AUTHORIZATION TO NEGOTIATE AND PURCHASE

1.0 Schools

1.1 Network Cabling Installation at Pensacola High School

This item was approved under the consent agenda with Mrs. Webb registering a NO vote.

1.2 Apple Microcomputer Equipment for Brownsville Middle School

1.3 Priority I Software License (George Stone Vocational Center)

1.4 Annual Magazine Subscriptions Renewal

2.0 Administrative Departments

2.1 ADC Kentrox DataSMART Units (Technological Systems/MIS)

2.2 Annual Renewal for Stop-Loss Insurance for Medical Claims (Risk Management)

2.3 Upgrade Existing Digital Data Circuits (Technological Systems/MIS)

2.4 Annual Renewal for Medical/Health Administrative Services (Risk Management)

This item was approved under the consent agenda with Mrs. Webb registering a NO vote.

2.5 Microcomputers - (143) P233/MMX/32MB/2GB including (16) Ethernet adapter cards and (127) Token Ring adapter cards (Technological Systems/MIS).

This item was approved under the consent agenda with Dr. DeWitt and Mrs. Webb registering NO votes. Dr. DeWitt stated based on discussion at the workshop yesterday, he felt that it was time for the District to reevaluate the bidding process. Mr. Bailey concurred.

2.6 ATS/Comp and ATS/PAC Software for Risk Management

This item was approved under the consent agenda with Mrs. Webb registering a NO vote.

3.0 Maintenance and Transportation

"No Items Submitted"

4.0 Central Warehouse

"No Items Submitted"

5.0 School Food Services

5.1 Innovative Tech Microcomputer Equipment

This item was approved under the consent agenda with Dr. DeWitt and Mrs. Webb registering NO votes. Dr. DeWitt stated he felt that it was time for the District to reevaluate the bidding process.

6.0 Facilities Planning

6.1 Carpet, Vinyl, and Base for Media Center at Myrtle Grove Elementary School

6.2 Network Cabling Installation at Brownsville Middle School

6.3 Architectural/Engineering Services for Swimming Pool Repairs at Washington High School

This item was approved under the consent agenda with Mrs. Webb registering a NO vote.

C. MISCELLANEOUS

1.0 Schools

"No Items Submitted"

2.0 Administrative Departments

2.1 Change Order #1 to Purchase Order #162118 (Deaf Service Center of NW FL)

2.2 Change Order #1 to Purchase Order #155429 (United Health Care of Florida)

2.3 Authorization to Purchase Radio/Phones with Trade-ins for Risk Management

3.0 Maintenance and Transportation

3.1 Unauthorized Purchase of Repair Services to Hydraulic Lifts by Transportation Department

4.0 Central Warehouse

"No Items Submitted"

5.0 School Food Services

"No Items Submitted"

6.0 Facilities Planning

6.1 Change Order #3 to Purchase Order #164229 (Parks, Palag & Noblin, Architect)

This item was approved under the consent agenda with Mrs. Webb registering a NO vote.

6.2 Addendum to Annual Agreement to Provide Aluminum Canopies (Ventilated Awnings)

6.3 Change Order #7 to Purchase Order #100998 (Gulf Coast Pav. & Grading)

6.4 Change Order #1 to Purchase Order #162521 (Jack Moore & Co. Inc.)

6.5 Waiver of Liquidated Damages (Purchase Order #144217 - Overstreet Electric Co. Inc.)

6.6 Unauthorized Purchase of Repair Services to Gas Line at Tate High School

This item was approved under the consent agenda with Mrs. Webb registering a NO vote.

VIII. FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE

A. FACILITIES PLANNING

Approved:

1. Final Payments:

a. LOCKER ROOM RENOVATIONS AT ESCAMBIA HIGH AND RANSOM MIDDLE SCHOOL

Authorized final payment in the amount of $35,386.01 to Gulfside Mechanical, Inc., contractor, on the above referenced project.

P. O. #160232 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $192,346.00

b. KITCHEN RENOVATIONS AT WORKMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL

Requested approval of final payment in the amount of $100.00 to A. E. New, Jr., Inc., contractor, on the above referenced project.

P. O. #160229 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $101,042.00

Motion made by Dr. DeWitt to reject this request based on the excellent workshop received last month. He stated he had checked with the principal and assistant principal, and the assistant principal had indicated the work was not complete and it was unsatisfactory. Dr. DeWitt discussed concerns that there were still major problems with the hood, and the Board should not approve final payment until the principal says she is satisfied with the work. After discussion, Dr. DeWitt restated his motion to postpone final payment until the work is completed, and Mrs. Webb seconded the motion. The motion was unanimously approved.

c. REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT OF PETROLEUM PRODUCT PIPING AT THE J. E. HALL TRANSPORTATION CENTER

Authorized final payment in the amount of $17,508.00 to Air Design Systems, Inc., contractor, on the above referenced project.

P. O. #158569 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $168,321.00

d. LOCKER ROOM RENOVATIONS AT ESCAMBIA HIGH SCHOOL

Authorized final payment in the amount of $669.82 to Bullock-Tice Associates, Architects, on the above referenced project.

P. O. #151626 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $24,130.00

2. Miscellaneous

a. YEARLY ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Approved ranking of firms for providing environmental services under a yearly contract with option of two (2) twelve month extensions, and granted permission to negotiate with the top two (2) ranked firms.

1. Enviro-Pro-Tech, Inc.

2. Law Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.

3. Professional Services Industries, Inc.

4. Thompson Engineering Testing, Inc.

4. Fabre Engineering, Inc.

4. Northwest Florida Engineering and Surveying, Inc.

4. GLE Associates

b. DRAINAGE EASEMENT AT NAVY POINT ELEMENTARY

Requested approval of the agreement between The School Board of Escambia County and Escambia County for a drainage easement at Navy Point Elementary School.

Mrs. Morris stated she had discussed this with the principal, who was not aware that the easement had been requested. She commented that the map indicates the easement is located along Patton Drive. She inquired as to the width of the easement, and she asked if it would create any problem to postpone this matter until after the principal is notified. After discussion, Mr. Ted Kirchharr, Director of Facilities Planning, noted the easement runs all along Patton Drive, across the northern section of Navy Point, beyond the area the school currently utilizes. The property is owned by the School District, but is an area that the school itself does not use. It was noted that postponement would delay the drainage project, but the matter could be addressed when the Board meets on Thursday, March 26, 1998.

Motion made by Mrs. Morris and seconded by Dr. DeWitt, to postpone it until next month or to the next called meeting that is advertised. Mrs. Morris noted the location of the holding pond and stated there was no fence around it. She requested that the principal and Advisory Council be notified before moving forward. The motion was unanimously approved.

c. PROPERTY PURCHASE 2507 AND 2509 NORTH B STREET

Approved property purchase of lots 2507 and 2509 North B street in accord to Pensacola High School Master Plan.

d. LEASE AGREEMENT SPRING STREET PROPERTIES

Approved lease agreement between The School District of Escambia County and Escambia County of "Spring Street properties."

Mrs. Morris commented that this has been delayed for a few years. The School Board did a property trade with the county in 1995, and in 1996, signed a contract to move forward with an agreement. The Board voted on the agreement, but it was never finalized by the county. Last year there was another attempt to finalize it and an agreement was typed indicating the amount the county would pay, including roof repairs. Upon inquiry from Mrs. Morris, staff verified that the District had received $10,000 in payments from the county. She noted she had asked for a copy of the old contract, and when comparing it to the new contract, realized that the new contract eliminated verbiage with reference to the county taking care of all of the facilities. She inquired as to whether staff was comfortable with the language as it pertained to certain facilities. Mr. Kirchharr stated the contract referred to ordinary repairs, and staff was comfortable with the new contract.

This item was approved under the consent agenda.

e. LAND CONVEYANCE, BRONSON FIELD

Approved proposed language for the conveyance of the Bronson Field property to the School District of Escambia County.

This item was approved under the consent agenda with Mrs. Webb registering a NO vote.

B. MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT

"No Items Submitted"

IX. CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION AND TRANSPORTATION

Backup Material filed in Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit L.

Approved:

1. Tech Pen is Mightier Than the Sword Grant.

Mrs. Webb inquired concerning policy on Internet usage in order to protect students and address liability issues. Mr. Gene Pettis, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, stated a letter will be provided to the Board giving an update on the Internet policy. He verified that the grant will not conflict with the current policy. Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb, Mr. Pettis stated he will check as to whether students gaining access on the Internet will be screened through our server.

2. Arizona Chemical/IPC Grant.

3. School Truancy Operations Program (STOP).

4. DELETED

5. School Advisory Council Nominations.

6. Roy L. Hyatt Environmental Center Environmental Education Grant.

7. Implementation of Year Round Education Program at Allie Yniestra Elementary School.

Mrs. Webb inquired concerning state deadlines for submission of the proposals. Mr. Pettis said in terms of year round schooling, it only requires the action of the Board, and schools usually want to do this as early as possible to address curriculum planning for the next school year. Mrs. Annette McArthur, Director of Elementary Education, advised that requests are generally presented no later than the March Board meeting in order to give schools and District departments the opportunity to make the necessary preparations to implement year round. Mrs. Webb stated that she supported the year round program in concept at Allie Yniestra Elementary School because a majority of the parents were in agreement; however, she registered a no vote because there was no fiscal impact attached to the implementation proposal. This item was approved under the consent agenda with Mrs. Webb voting NO.

8. Escambia County School District Sports and Recreational Turf Operations Sponsor Agreement for WFL Turf Services, Inc.

9. Escambia County School District Construction Trades Youth Apprenticeship Sponsor Agreement for Grant Wood Contracting, Inc.

10. Clinical Education Agreement Between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Sacred Heart Hospital.

11. State Coordination Grant Title I, Section 123 Non-financial Cooperative Agreement.

12. Special Experimental, Demonstration and Teacher Training Projects, Section 353, Adult Education Act Fiscal Year 1998.

13. Adult Education 322 Supplementary Grant.

14. State Coordination Grant Title I, Section 123, Project Proposal.

15. Florida Department of Education, Division of Applied Technology and Adult Education Project Application Summary (B) Carl D. Perkins Vocational & Applied Technology Education Funds.

X. INTERNAL AUDITING

Approved:

A. INTERNAL FUNDS

1. Bailey Middle for fiscal year 1996-97

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit M)

Upon inquiry from Dr. DeWitt, Mr. May advised concerning School Board Rule 5.05, C(5)(A&B), that the Board allows, at the Superintendent's discretion, to waive and adjust the fees for the use of any facility or group. He advised that staff contacted church representatives who indicated that if the Board would be willing to extend their permission to use the facility through the end of April, they will be able to move into a different facility at that time.

Motion made by Mr. Bailey and seconded by Mrs. Morris, to approve a continuance through the end of April for this group to use that facility at Bailey Middle School. Mr. May advised that the group had volunteered to pay to the school a certain amount of money which they were going to use to put in a sprinkler system at the school. Mr. May assured the Board that this issue will be reviewed by the Auditing Department.

Chairman Jenkins called for the vote, and the motion carried unanimously.

2. Edgewater Elementary for fiscal year 1996-97

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit N)

B. PROPERTY CONTROL

1. Surplus property items for cannibalization and scrap

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit O)

2. Maintenance items for cannibalization and scrap

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit P)

3. Removal of stock items from Warehouse Inventory

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit Q)

4. Correction to September 23, 1997, Board action

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit R)

5. Permission to sell portable classroom to the highest bidder

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit S)

IV.-X. CONSENT AGENDA

The following speakers addressed the Board:

1) Mr. Leonard Schmitt, 6800 Whispering Pines, Pensacola, Florida, 32504, spoke regarding Item VII.B.5.1 (Innovative Tech Microcomputer Equipment). He stated that he is general manager of Entre Computer Center, and he requested that the School District provide more opportunity for local vendors to bid.

2) Mr. Hal Mason, 828 Gordon Avenue, Pensacola, Florida, 32507, made general comments concerning Item VI.10 (Auditor General's Report) and Item VII.B.5.1 (Innovative Tech Microcomputer Equipment).

The consent agenda was unanimously approved with the exception of separate motions on Item Numbers VIII.A.1.b, VIII.A.2.b, X.A.1, with NO votes registered by Dr. DeWitt on VII.B.2.5, VII.B.5.1, and IV. (student transfer from out-of-state to Washington High School), and NO votes registered by Mrs. Webb on VII.B.1.1, VII.B.5.1, VII.B.6.3, VII.C.6.1, and IX.7, as well as Addition/Deletion Items IV. through X. and XI.40. A subsequent motion was made under Item VI.10.

XI. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Backup information on expulsions filed in the Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit T.

1. FOR INFORMATION ONLY: PTA Presentation

Mrs. Francis Yeo, School Education Chairman for Escambia County Council PTA, and Marketing Communications Chairperson for the Florida PTA, reported that next week is Children's Advocacy Week in Tallahassee. She noted a copy of the complete legislative platform for the Florida PTA will be provided to the Board, as well as a detailed briefing on the proposal to require new school buses to be equipped with seatbelts. Mrs. Webb commended Mrs. Yeo for her comments at last month's Board meeting where she spoke out against a request to look into allowing a bar with sale of alcoholic beverages next to school property.

2. Recommend approval of the following administrative appointment effective March 2, 1998: Mr. Mark Pursell, Director of Maintenance, PG 14/1

Motion made by Mrs. Morris and seconded by Mr. Bailey, to approve the appointment of Mr. Mark Pursell as Director of Maintenance. Mrs. Webb stated she had received correspondence with reference to individuals who had not had the opportunity of being interviewed, and she said she would like to see the District interview individuals who meet the criteria. Dr. Jenkins said he supported the appointment, but would ask that more minority applicants be considered in the hiring process. After discussion, the motion was unanimously approved.

Motion made by Mrs. Morris and seconded by Dr. DeWitt, to approve the Superintendent's recommendations for students in items 3-7, 9-25, and 27-38. It was noted that Item #26 was a request for formal hearing. Concerning Item #8, Mr. May stated that a parent had made a request to address the Board. Mr. Joe Hammons, Attorney to the Superintendent, advised that the student had an informal hearing and had requested a formal hearing. He advised the parent of their right to address the Board prior to the vote on the formal hearing officer's recommended order.

Ms. Rosa Dukes, 4343 Erress Boulevard, Pensacola, Florida, 32508, stated she would like to find out what could be done concerning an officer who arrested her son, and she commented briefly.

Mr. Hammons stated that was not the incident that gave rise to the expulsion. Mr. Ray noted the expulsion involved an incident that occurred in the classroom as set forth in the hearing officer's recommended order, and the incident Ms. Dukes referred to had occurred some time earlier, but not that day. Chairman Jenkins asked if there was anything Ms. Dukes wished to say concerning the expulsion of her son for the remainder of this year. There being no further comments, Chairman Jenkins advised Ms. Dukes that she could address the Board under public forum as well if she wished to do so.

Mrs. Morris stated as maker of the motion, she would add Item #8 for approval. The motion carried unanimously.

3. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the formal hearing officer, the recommendation that student number 98-08-411 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 1997-98 school year be dismissed.

4. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the formal hearing officer, student number 98-92-851 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.

5. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the formal hearing officer, student number 98-93-851 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.

6. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the formal hearing officer, student number 98-95-851 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.

7. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the formal hearing officer, 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.

8. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the formal hearing officer, 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 and that the student is provided counseling for anger control.

9. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-135-411 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.

10. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-139-2032 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.

11. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-154-281 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 with special attention for Exceptional Student Education placement to be provided as required by law 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 98-160-591 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 98-161-951 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.

14. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-162-601 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.

15. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-167-301 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.

16. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-168-301 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 98-172-061 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 98-173-411 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.

19. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-175-601 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.

20. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-176-601 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, student number 98-177-521 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.

22. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-178-521 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, pursuant to the authority of Section 232.26(2), Florida Statutes, student number 98-179-561 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.

24. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-180-121 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.

25. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-181-281 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.

26. Mr. May advised that there was a request for formal hearing for this student with reference to the following recommendation: (Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-182-601 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).

Motion by Mr. Bailey, second by Mrs. Morris, to approve a formal hearing officer for Item #26 (student number 98-182-601), was unanimously approved.

27. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-183-411 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.

28. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-184-411 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.

29. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-185-281 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.

30. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-186-281 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.

31. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-187-121 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.

32. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-192-851 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.

33. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-193-411 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.

34. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-194-411 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.

35. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-195-221 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.

36. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-205-2032 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.

37. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, pursuant to the authority of Section 232.26(2), Florida Statutes, student number 98-209-411 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.

38. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 98-212-862 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.

39. Mr. May advised that the deleted item (new charter school proposal) was actually postponed until next month.

40. Proposal from Law Engineering for Soil Testing at Northview High School

Motion made by Mrs. Morris and seconded by Mr. Bailey, to approve the proposal from Law Engineering for soil testing at Northview High School.

Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb, Dr. David Epperson, Assistant Superintendent for Facilities Planning and Maintenance, advised that the contractual language now reflected the correct spelling of the chemical "disulfoton," a list of chemicals to be tested, and verbiage referencing soil sampling standards in accordance with the Comprehensive Quality Assurance Plan approved by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), as well as state and federal EPA standards. In further discussion, Dr. Epperson stated that prior testing by DEP, Law Engineering, and The University of Florida indicated there were no hazardous levels of chemicals based on samples taken in 1994 and 1995. After discussion, Mrs. Webb stated she could not support using the same firm that did the testing the last time.

The motion carried 4-1, with Mrs. Webb voting NO.

XII. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD

1. Department of Environmental Protection Investigation - Mrs. Webb

Mrs. Webb stated this matter was discussed in workshop relative to an investigation regarding the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Inspector General's office. She advised that the gentleman who filed the petition was present at the workshop and at the meeting tonight to answer any questions. She said it was her understanding that the DEP was interested in making sure that the site is safe and that proper procedures were followed.

2. Item(s) from Mrs. Webb

Mrs. Webb requested that the Superintendent and the Board investigate to determine if an emergency exists concerning the dam at Northview High School in that recent rains may have caused damage to the dam. The school bus entrance/exit is on a road built over the dam and may present a safety hazard. She requested that Risk Management staff look at the site. Chairman Jenkins asked that the Superintendent look into the matter. Upon inquiry from Mrs. Morris, Mrs. Webb said she was uncertain as to whether there had been a request from the principal.

3. Item(s) from Mrs. Webb

Mrs. Webb discussed concerns that there had been five bomb threats called in at schools in her District in the last couple of days. She said in order to address concerns from parents, she had spoken with Deputy Superintendent Jerome Watson, as well as Mr. Charles Griffin, Director of Risk Management, regarding existing policies and procedures, and they had conveyed that this was something the District would be looking at and updating. She stated she had not been notified concerning a meeting with community members to address the issue of bomb threats, and she requested in the future that the Board be informed when there are meetings that involve members of the community. Chairman Jenkins stated he was going to discuss that with the Superintendent. After discussion, Mr. May stated it is within the purview of the Office of Superintendent to hold working meetings with staff all over the District. He stated the reason he had not invited Mrs. Webb to meetings was due to the gerrymandering and filibustering that had occurred in Board workshops, and he did not want that to occur in his working meetings with staff. He stated if the Board wished to develop a policy in terms of enhancing student safety, he would be happy to entertain a motion in that regard, but that he will continue to have meetings with staff without her being present. After discussion, Chairman Jenkins asked that the Board move to the next agenda item.

4. Item(s) from Mrs. Webb

Mrs. Webb requested that the Board and Superintendent direct the attorneys to look at School Board rules, policies, resolutions, and other statutory requirements to determine if any revisions or updates are necessary and bring back those findings and recommendations to the Board. She suggested looking at the resolution concerning out-of-state students, as well possible rule changes for new purchasing strategies which were implemented. Mrs. Morris commented that policy and procedural updates are done periodically and the departments channel those through Dr. Jo Alice Tarwater, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, and not through the attorney. Mr. Ray stated this is done on an on-going basis, and there is more activity after the end of the legislative session due to policy changes required by the legislature. The staff person involved usually initiates that because they deal with new laws on a day-to-day basis.

Mrs. Webb inquired as to the deadline for submittal of the School Board budget. Mrs. Patricia Wascom, Comptroller, stated they are in the process of developing the budget now, and it will ultimately be approved by the Board in September.

5. Horace Jones Settlement - Dr. Jenkins

After relinquishing the gavel to Dr. DeWitt, Dr. Jenkins made the following speaking motion:

"The Commissioner of Education recently withdrew his earlier complaint to the Florida Education Practice Commission that Horace Jones be disciplined for his alleged mishandling of events that occurred at Pensacola High School during the 1995/1996 school year. In fact, the Commissioner has now concluded that based on a thorough Department of Education investigation, there is not even probable cause to believe Mr. Jones had any liability for those situations. The EPC has now closed the case against Mr. Jones. It has now been almost two years since Mr. Jones was removed as principal at Pensacola High School and demoted because of those allegations and conclusions. I'm sure he has learned a lot from these incidents, and in two plus years, he has had a lot of time to think about what went wrong and what, if anything, he could have done to prevent it. He certainly has expressed his remorse for what happened and for the hurt he caused to many Pensacola High School students, faculty, and staff. I say it is time to put this all behind us and get on with paying attention to the real challenges of our public schools. I say it is time that just as the Commissioner has done, the School Board should publicly declare that based on what has been decided recently in Tallahassee, there is no longer any good cause to reject Mr. Jones from holding a high school principal job."

Dr. Jenkins stated that Mr. Jones is not interested in becoming a principal and if the motion passes, Mr. Jones will drop his appeal and release the District from any and all liability. Dr. Jenkins said that Mr. Jones is currently at pay grade 15, step 6 (15/6), at just over $60,000, and if Mr. Jones were still a principal, he would be at 18/3 (about $61,000 plus), a difference of about $1,800 per year. He stated that Mr. Jones had requested the 18/3, because over a period of ten years, the 18/3 would give him a higher ceiling for retirement purposes. This was his motion to the Board. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Morris. Dr. Jenkins noted a request for retroactive pay was not included in the motion.

Dr. DeWitt stated his understanding of the motion was that the Board acknowledge that there is no longer any good cause to reject Horace Jones from holding a high school principal job, if so recommended by the School Superintendent, and recommend that his current salary at 15/6 be restored to 18/3, a difference of about $1,800 (with no retroactive pay), contingent upon Mr. Jones dropping his appeal.

Mrs. Webb discussed concerns that this incident had cost the District over $250,000 in legal fees as of last June, and now a hearing has been requested by Mr. Jones. She stated she had met with a representative from the Professional Practice Commission and reviewed evidentiary material, and it was the opinion of the Assistant State Attorney that there was evidence that there was a problem with the leadership at Pensacola High School.

Dr. DeWitt stated he would vote no because he could not support changing Mr. Jones' salary. Dr. Jenkins inquired of the Superintendent as to information received from the Professional Practice Commission to the effect that Mr. Jones was cleared. Mr. May stated that was the information he received and the exact words from the Commissioner's attorney was "no probable cause." Mr. Ray noted there is no investigation at this point.

Dr. Jenkins stated he would change his motion for Mr. Jones' salary to remain at 15/6. As seconder of the motion, Mrs. Morris expressed some reservations in that because Mr. Jones had been cleared by the state and his salary should reflect what it was prior to being removed from that position. She expressed that the Board has allowed that in past cases where employees were reinstated, and they were also given compensation for the loss. Upon inquiry from Dr. DeWitt, Mr. May advised that Mr. Jones received a step raise this year, as did all employees. Mrs. Morris seconded the motion.

Following brief discussion, Dr. Jenkins stated he would go back to his original motion, proposing the change from pay grade 15, step 6 (15/6) to 18/3. Chairman DeWitt asked if Mrs. Morris wished to change her second, and she responded yes, to be reinstated at 18/3. Dr. DeWitt stated that was the original motion. Dr. Jenkins stated Mr. Jones was not asking for retroactive pay. Mrs. Morris said her concern was why he would be treated differently than any other employee in the District. She stated that Mr. Jones has done what was right for children for a number of years. He was falsely accused and cleared of the crime. Mrs. Webb expressed that he was not cleared of the charges and the Grand Jury report brought back findings and conclusions directing the Board to take appropriate action.

Jacqueline R. Green, 6363 Chicago Avenue, Pensacola, Florida, 32526, spoke in opposition to allowing Mr. Jones an opportunity to be a principal in the future.

Dr. DeWitt called for the vote on the original motion, and the motion failed 3-2, with Dr. Jenkins and Mrs. Morris voting YES.

Dr. Jenkins noted even though the motion failed, Mr. Jones would remain at pay grade 15, step 6 (15/6), and would not lose any pay. It was noted that Mr. Jones now has a choice of going to court. Dr. Jenkins discussed concerns that there had been situations with other administrators who did not receive the same treatment that Mr. Jones is receiving, and he is concerned as to why.

Dr. DeWitt returned the gavel to Dr. Jenkins.

XIII. ITEMS FROM THE ATTORNEY

Mr. Ray advised that at last month's Regular Board meeting, an attorney suggested that the Board did not have the right to limit speakers to two minutes. Mr. Ray stated that was in error and Florida Law states that School Boards may exercise any power except as expressly prohibited by the State Constitution and general law, and there is no prohibition in the State Constitution or general law as to limiting speakers; in addition, Robert's Rules of Order state that without permission of the assembly, no one can speak longer than permitted by the rules of the body, and the rule of this Board has normally been two minutes. Mrs. Webb commented that Florida Statutes 120.54, 120.81 governing hearings, and School District Rule 1.10 were different than what Mr. Ray cited, and the legal notice said exactly the opposite.

XIV. REQUESTS TO APPEAR

There were no requests to appear.

XV. PUBLIC FORUM

Chairman Jenkins and School Board Attorney Ray briefly left the meeting at 9:26 p.m. and returned at 9:27 p.m.

The following speakers were recognized:

1) Mr. Frank McCarthy, 2371 Berrydale Road, Pensacola, Florida, 32534, stated he had addressed the Board on January 8, 1998, regarding concerns that allegations made by Mrs. Webb be removed from the minutes of the November 18, 1997, Board meeting. These allegations related to violation of Florida Sunshine Laws. He requested that the Chairman direct the Board to amend the January 8, 1998, minutes to include his statement in summary form indicating that he would compare the audio tapes with the minutes to see if the allegations of wrongdoing made by Mrs. Webb were included in the minutes.

2) Ms. Laura Sjoberg, 4219 Rosebud Court, Pensacola, Florida, 32504, stated that she was a student at Pensacola High School in 1995/96 when bomb threats occurred. With the recurrence of bomb threats in the District, she requested that policies be reviewed to ensure the safety of students and to continue to provide an educational environment.

3) Mr. Malcolm Cobb, 4010 Collingswood Road, Pensacola, Florida, 32514, requested that the Board reconsider the prior motion under Agenda Item III, School District Rule 6Gx17-3.15, School Facilities, and require two MAI appraisals on any property to be disposed of or acquired.

XVI. ADJOURNMENT

Chairman Jenkins stated that he will address a revised motion concerning the Horace Jones settlement at the Board meeting on Thursday. He noted he had received a request from Mrs. Linda West, Administrative Secretary to the School Board, and that item will also be addressed. Mr. Ray advised that he will be unable to attend that meeting.

Motion by Dr. DeWitt, second by Mr. Bailey, to adjourn the meeting, was unanimously approved, the time being 9:39 p.m.

Attest:

Approved: