The School Board of Escambia County, Florida, convened in Workshop Meeting at 9:00 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 9:00 a.m. by Chairman Jenkins. Chairman Jenkins recognized Mr. Larry Huntley, Principal, Pensacola High School, who requested that the Board add to the Board meeting agenda, approval to advertise a Notice of Intent to name the gymnasium at Pensacola High School the "Barbara Washington Rose Gymnasium." He expressed that the naming would be in memory of Barbara Washington Rose, who served as Dean at Pensacola High School for almost 29 years, and for two years at Carver Middle School prior to coming to PHS. He noted that a ceremony would be also be planned. Chairman Jenkins advised that the request would be added to the agenda (for advertising the notice of intent), with the final approval at the May Board meeting.

II. COMMENTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT

Mr. May reported there were no additions or deletions to the agenda. It was noted that the Resolution for School Library Week was pulled from the agenda upon request of Dr. Paula Gleason. Under XI. Items From The Superintendent, Mr. May advised that Student Number 21 had submitted a request to address the Board. Mr. May provided copies to the Board of a letter from Frank T. Brogan, Commissioner of Education, congratulating the District for having been included in the 14% of School Districts receiving a "What Parents Want" Award in the School Match Contest. Escambia County School District was selected as one of 2,274 Districts so honored from among 15,620 nationwide.

Mrs. Morris referenced a letter that she had received from the Commissioner of Education on the First Start Schools proposal regarding construction costs, which indicated that when facilities are needed for shelters, we are to track the extra dollars spent and that will be deleted from the total, so as not to go over and above the normal construction costs of the building. She noted she would refer the letter to the Board Chairman. Mrs. Morris stated that Mr. Martin Harwood wished to address the Board later in the workshop concerning the Master Gardener Program. Mr. May deferred the presentation on customer relations until the 1:00 p.m. Special Board Workshop. Mr. Ray stated that he had an item to add to the Board meeting agenda under XIII. Items From The Attorney. Mrs. Morris said she had an item to add under XII. Items From The Board. Dr. DeWitt said he would two items to add. Chairman Jenkins requested that each of the Board Members be added on the agenda for XII. Items From The Board.

III. PROPOSED ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO SCHOOL DISTRICT RULES

A. Permission to Advertise

3. School District Rule 6Gx17-7.02

CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT:

ELEMENTARY RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT:

SECONDARY RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Regarding proposed changes to the secondary rights and responsibilities handbook, Dr. DeWitt noted there was inappropriate language stating that a handicapped student may be suspended. He advised that language in federal law refers to "student with disabilities," and based on the new laws, he asked that the handbook language be changed accordingly. Dr. DeWitt commented relative to a new ten-day suspension rule, that there are some disruptive students who have had their ten-day suspension from another school before they are sent to a special education center, such as ESEAL, and suspension cannot be used as a form of discipline any more. He expressed concerns as to protecting staff and other students, because there are some very violent children.

Mrs. Webb requested a copy of the full text of the student rights and responsibilities handbook and proposed changes. Deputy Superintendent Jerome Watson said he would provide her with a copy. Mrs. Webb referenced language in the backup indicating that a hearing will be held tomorrow night; however, the Board is actually considering approval for advertising, and the backup should be corrected to reflect the correct hearing date.

Mrs. Morris questioned including language ("Pre-K development and educational ... cognitive development") in the secondary rights and responsibilities handbook. Mr. May said that should be reflected in the elementary handbook rather than the secondary handbook. Chairman Jenkins noted that would be changed.

IX. CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION AND TRANSPORTATION

6. Charter Agreement Between Beulah Academy of Science and the School Board of Escambia County, Florida. (Note: This item was postponed from the March Board meeting.)

Chairman Jenkins recognized Ms. Sherry Bailey, who had presented the charter proposal to the Board last month, and asked if the Board had any questions at this time. Mr. May stated that Ms. Bailey had information to share concerning where Beulah Charter School would draw its students from. Ms. Bailey advised that after meeting with the District, they realized that the repercussions from their student draw would be detrimental to some of the middle schools; therefore, they made some changes so that the target students would actually come from the home schoolers, private schools, and a few from area middle schools. The number of students drawn out of the area middle schools would be such that no teaching positions or programs already in place would be affected in any way, and they will make a revision in the proposal for that. Chairman Jenkins noted that one section in the proposal mentioned targeting students according to ages, and he requested that the words "minority" and "ethnic" students be added under students to be targeted. Ms. Bailey stated that they had contacted the Office of Civil Rights through the U.S. Department of Education, and they advised that charter schools are obligated under federal civil rights laws with respect to recruitment and admissions, with provisions of appropriate services to limited English-proficient students, as well as minorities, and students with disabilities; in addition, the charter school must be established and operated in a manner consistent with the approved desegregation plan or court order under which the District operates, and they plan to be in complete compliance in that. With reference to reaching hard-to-reach families, she stated the only thing they omitted (in the promotional materials and plan to attract those students), was targeting of minority radio stations, newspapers, public meetings and things of that nature, and that will be amended. Chairman Jenkins noted that the District is still operating under the Augustus civil rights case and is responsible for making sure that minority and black students are considered, consistent with the court order and student assignments. With regard to any charter school proposal or new school in the District, the ethnic makeup of the body should be proportionate to the total percentage of ethnic makeup of students in that District, which would come to about 13%. Ms. Bailey stated they will be in compliance with that.

Mr. Bailey stated that he had visited the school to take photographs, noting renovations and repairs would have to be finished before opening the school. He stated that two sets of photographs were available for review in the Board office, including photos of Escambia Charter School for comparison purposes. He commented that if we have a charter school, we want it to be a good one, and he noted some of the features of the proposed charter, including new buses to be leased, recreation area with a baseball field and lighting, as well building accommodations including ramps, handicapped bathrooms, and double doors.

Mrs. Morris questioned the legality of the language in the charter proposal as to limiting the charter strictly for home school, private school, and very few from public school. Mr. Charles Thomas, Director of Alternative Education, advised that law provides that a target population can be designated in age or grade range, and "first come, first serve" would be legal regardless of whether they came from home school, private school, or public, as long as they did not exceed whatever cap we set; however, if we said in the charter that we can limit it only to home school or limit only to this group with selective numbers from the District, some questions may be raised, and the School Board Attorney could advise in that regard. Mrs. Morris noted that Ms. Bailey had indicated that an amendment would be presented to the Board before tomorrow night. She commented that after discussion last month, the Board received the letter requesting postponement for a month, but had not received the new materials and updated packet to include some of the comments made last month, which included getting letters from some of the people in the Wedgewood community, and correcting Exhibit F to correct the typographical error which had indicated 1997/98 as the first year. She noted as a legal document, it needed to be corrected and provided to the Board. She asked if they would have time to get those done to present with the amendment for the Board meeting tomorrow night. Ms. Bailey responded yes, indicating they still wanted to present the information for Board consideration tomorrow night.

Dr. DeWitt stated that he would make a motion at the Board meeting that if the following three conditions are met on July 1, the charter will be effective, and if not, hold the charter back until the three conditions are fully met: 1) the facility must meet the safety standards submitted by staff and the list of items that were noncompliant; 2) documentation must be provided that all teachers are certified, with copies of the teachers' certificates; and 3) a minimum of 100 students would be enrolled, with at least 20% being minority students. He discussed concerns that opening the school with less than 100 students could lead to financial problems. Ms. Bailey stated that they do not intend to open with less than 100, and that will be their target. Mr. Bailey asked if the Escambia Charter School would have to meet the same requirements. Dr. DeWitt commented that the same questions could be asked when that contract comes up for renewal. Mrs. Morris commented that the Escambia Charter had asked for certain waivers that this charter is not asking for and teacher certification may have been one of them.

Upon inquiry from Mrs. Morris relative to the agricultural emphasis, Ms. Bailey stated that she had documentation from people in the neighborhood of the school giving permission to utilize some of the farming area and livestock. Mrs. Morris asked that they provide the information in writing to verify that. It was also noted that nursery access will be available to the charter school. Mr. Bailey commented that the vocational emphasis would benefit children who wish to attend George Stone and hopefully, the new technical high school. Chairman Jenkins discussed concerns relative to getting teachers in agriscience technology with a starting salary of $22,000. Following discussion, Ms. Bailey emphasized that the school was built around the agriscience concept. The school is located in an agricultural community, with availability of 4H facilities, and related activities such as rodeos. She noted that a number of retired teachers have expressed interest in teaching at the school and have indicated no hesitation about the base salary. She noted they do not plan for that to remain the base salary for any length of time; it is a beginning salary. Chairman Jenkins expressed concern that people from the Wedgewood community should be involved in the formation of the school and policy in the planning stage. Mrs. Webb noted that the County Extension Office is located in fairly close proximity to the school, and those resources could possibly be utilized; i.e., the Master Gardener Program. Ms. Bailey also noted there are many educational grants in agriculture which could provide resources as well. Chairman Jenkins stated if the charter school was approved, after 90 or more days, he wanted to look at the makeup of the total student population, as well as the people involved in the planning stage to make sure it fits what the District wants it to be like.

Mr. May asked what the cap would be in terms of the maximum number of students coming from any school. Ms. Bailey stated she would ask what the maximum number would be that they could draw without adversely affecting any programs or teaching positions that are already in place. She stated they would comply with District recommendations and grow each year on that number, noting one of their major objectives is to help out as far as the scheduling conflicts between year round and traditional schools. Mr. May commented that the charter group has met with the District, and they have done everything they could to work within our parameters. He noted that staffing has been completed for this year and if we were to lose more than ten students from any one school in the District, it would affect staffing. Mr. May noted if approved, registration would begin in February, which is consistent with our schools; in addition, we could allot under staffing allocations anything that would be a change. Ms. Bailey stated they could work with that, if that is the figure the District recommended. Following discussion, Ms. Bailey commented that they would be drawing students from more than three schools, including Brentwood, Brown-Barge, and Brownsville. Concerning the proposed requirement for 100 students, Mr. Bailey discussed the possibility of leaving that number open. Ms. Bailey commented that they could address the program's viability and solvency based on the number of students enrolled, perhaps with 80 students instead of 100; however, they are targeting 100 students and have not yet advertised to the home school league or to the private schoolers, and they already have 45-50 students projected to come out of home school. Mr. May stated that based on information presented today, he would like the opportunity to receive input at the Board meeting from Mr. Gene Pettis, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and Mr. Charles Thomas. Mr. Bailey suggested that Ms. Bailey confer with the Board of Directors for the Beulah Charter School concerning the contingency items proposed by Dr. DeWitt in order to get a final answer for tomorrow night.

PRESENTATION ON MASTER GARDENER PROGRAM

Mr. Martin Harwood gave a presentation to the Board concerning the Master Gardener Program, which is part of The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, and the Escambia County Cooperative Extension Service, and he filed for the record a handout entitled "The Youth Program." He noted their mission statement "to use an informal garden setting as a means to provide a practical and fun way for students to learn useful gardening skills and sound environmental practices which can be transferred to their homes and communities." He reported that "enviroscaping" beautification programs take place at the schools with student involvement, noting in particular Warrington Middle School and Edgewater Elementary School programs. Mr. Harwood requested approval from the Board as to providing support from the different schools to provide running water when they put in plants, trees, bushes, and grass for the new projects. Mrs. Morris noted the Board does not vote at workshops, but that Mr. Harwood could work through Superintendent May or Deputy Superintendent Jerome Watson to line up with the individual principals who will make the decisions as to whether to have the program at their schools. She expressed that this is an excellent program and the Board would support their request for availability of running water needed for the projects.

IV. STUDENT TRANSFERS

Mrs. Morris stated that she would contact staff prior to the Board meeting relative to questions on some of the information provided in the backup materials. Mrs. Webb indicated she would confer with staff regarding Hellen Caro Elementary School transfers.

V. HUMAN RESOURCES.

A. Instructional

8. Special Requests

(1) Adoption of the attached calendars:

(a) 1998-99 designated paid holidays - all District employees

(b) 1998-99 traditional Escambia County school calendar

(c) 1998-99 alternative year round Escambia County school calendar

(d) 1998-99 school based work schedule (traditional) Educational Support Personnel

(e) 1998-99 school based work schedule (alternative year round) Educational Support Personnel

Dr. DeWitt commented that the calendar was very impressive, noting in particular that the children will not be in school on Memorial Day next year. Mr. May stated the reason was that the children will be out of school before Memorial Day. Mrs. Morris noted that the School Calendar Committee has targeted that, and that the District has done an excellent job over the past few years in preparing the calendar, with proposals for the next year including the year round school calendar for approval at the same time. This calendar has been shared with several counties in the state, and many have expressed that they like the idea of having the semester end before Christmas break.

(2) Request approval to establish the attached job descriptions on the professional salary schedule:

a) Specialist - Network Communications

b) Manager of Certification

c) Manager of Educational Support Personnel Services

d) Coordinator of Volunteer and Business Partnerships

(3) Request approval to revise the attached job description of Coordinator of Information Services

(4) Request approval to revise the attached job description of Director of Comprehensive Educational Planning

Dr. DeWitt discussed budgetary concerns, noting that the requests he was concerned about amounted to over $200,000 in additional funds, and he stated he will make a motion at the Board meeting to table these until further stages of the budget process. He commented that these are very important positions, but they do not directly impact children and that could send out the wrong message to teachers, who also work on weekends and at night, and are still being paid $22,000 per year, with the average at $29,000. Mrs. Morris discussed budgetary concerns, and commented that she would confer with the Superintendent regarding two of the positions coming off of civil service and going onto the professional salary schedule. She noted that a lot of overtime was being paid, but she still did not feel that justified the category they are being placed in. Mrs. Webb commented that each employee of the District had received a 3% raise, and that equity was needed. She inquired as to the dollar amount in reserves at this point.

Mr. May stated that the District aims include an efficient and effective system, and there are many instances where jobs have changed over the years and employees have assumed more responsibilities. Under civil service, overtime pay had been given. The proposed changes would not go into effect until July 1, 1998, so it would not go into effect for this budget year. Concerning unrestricted fund balance carryover, we will end this year at between $2,000,000 and $2,500,000.

Chairman Jenkins requested information as to the average percentage raise proposed for each of these positions. Mr. May noted that the Manager of Certification and Manager of Educational Support Personnel Services positions were civil service that were recommended to become professional staff levels because of the extent of the changes in duties for the positions, the group with whom they have to work, and the amount of time they have to devote above and beyond the normal week.

B. Educational Support Personnel

2. Resignations

Mrs. Morris noted that an individual was appointed to a position in March, and was listed as resigning in February because he had been under civil service. She asked that staff check into the gap in time between his resignation date and his appointment date, and make the appointment effective the next day if possible in order to avoid a lapse in his time.

VI. FINANCE

Chairman Jenkins stated that he had talked to Coach Bennett at Pensacola High School, who requested consideration on acquiring new lockers for the 9^th and 10^th grade football area. Dr. David Epperson, Assistant Superintendent for Facilities Planning and Maintenance, stated that the coach could ask the principal, who could make a request to the Board for funding out of the capital outlay budget, which will be prioritized by the Board.

Mrs. Morris noted there had been a presentation by the Escambia High School Advisory Council and principal a couple of months ago concerning the need for a master plan for Escambia High School. She stated that additional land was needed, and that EHS was one of the schools listed for Classroom First dollars; however, until a master plan is done, they will not be able to determine where those classrooms will go. Dr. Epperson stated that EHS is landlocked, with only 35 acres for the entire site, and the school needs to have additional property. He noted that a location will have to be determined on the site for the Classroom First project. He stated that a master plan, similar to the PHS master plan, was needed to give a long-range development plan for all the buildings on that campus. Following discussion, Mrs. Morris inquired concerning availability of funding in this year's budget, and Dr. Epperson stated that he would ask Mr. Kirchharr to look at moving dollars in the budget if that is the Board's desire, noting there may be a project which could be shifted until July 1 (and then replace those dollars), which would constitute an accounting move out of one category into another. Mr. Bailey requested that those funds not come out of monies the Board had budgeted for the Bellview Elementary School property. He stated he would like to meet with Dr. Epperson to update what is happening on the Bellview Elementary School property.

VII. PURCHASING

A. AWARD BIDS

6.0 Facilities Planning

6.1 Installation of Storm Shutters at the Hall Center Maintenance Department

Upon inquiry from Mrs. Morris, Dr. Epperson advised that the storm shutter project emanated from the two hurricanes we had several years ago and this is FEMA money (with some local matching dollars). He noted that the differences in cost between the various projects (Items 6.2 through 6.7) have to do with the number of windows at the facility, as well as window size and design. Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb relative to use of the Hall Center as a storm shelter, Mr. Kirchharr noted the rationale was for the site to serve as a command center in recovery efforts in order to get schools back up and going as quickly as possible after a storm.

6.2 Installation of Storm Shutters at Woodham High School

6.3 Installation of Storm Shutters at Lipscomb Elementary School

6.4 Installation of Storm Shutters at Ransom Middle School

6.5 Installation of Storm Shutters at Washington High School

6.6 Installation of Storm Shutters at Northview High School

6.7 Installation of Storm Shutters at Bellview Middle School

6.8 Restoration of Battery Charging Room at the Central Warehouse

Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb, Mr. Kirchharr noted that the facility has been there for a number of years, and the acid corrosive environment is a factor.

6.9 Asbestos Abatement at Pensacola High School

Upon inquiry from Mr. Bailey, Mr. Kirchharr reported that this project involves removal of tile and ceiling work. Mrs. Morris noted that Suter and Ensley Elementary were included as alternates. Mr. Kirchharr advised that the work was scheduled at those two schools, and the intent was to get a better price by combining the three into one bid.

B. AUTHORIZATION TO NEGOTIATE AND PURCHASE

1.0 Schools

1.3 Gateway Microcomputer Equipment for Pine Forest High School

Mrs. Webb stated that she had shared with Mr. Pettis that different companies have provided information on the Internet via their home page that they are offering equipment free or at reduced prices, and this information could be passed on to the schools. She noted in particular that a computer company had overbuilt servers and indicated they were giving them to School Districts at no charge.

1.5 (60) Station K-8 Courseware License for Jostens Compass-Tomorrow's Promise Software at Workman Middle School

Mrs. Webb suggested that this type of information could be included under IX. Curriculum And Instruction on the agenda to provide information when large software packages are purchased, in terms of what is included and the technology involved.

1.6 Gateway Microcomputer Equipment for Brownsville Middle School

Mrs. Webb noted that Brownsville Middle would be getting 20 microcomputers with 4 gb hard drives, and she inquired concerning Item 2.1, as to why the 19 microcomputers for George Stone had only 2 gb hard drives. She commented that it appeared that we are paying more for the 2 gb units. Mr. Barry Boyer, Purchasing Manager, noted there was a $55 difference in unit price between the two, and the equipment for George Stone included a multi-media package that was not included on the equipment for Brownsville Middle. Mrs. Webb asked that staff look into getting the 4 gb hard drives if that is what the school wants. Mr. Boyer noted these requests came in from the schools based on the applications they are using, and George Stone requested the multi-media package, which is a different software package.

2.0 Administrative Departments

2.1 Gateway Microcomputer Equipment for George Stone Vocational Center (Applied Technology & Adult Education)

C. MISCELLANEOUS

1.0 Schools

1.1 Unauthorized Purchase of Instructional Software by Holm Elementary School

Ms. Jennifer Pierce, Principal, stated that she wished to ask the Board's forgiveness for an (authorized) unauthorized purchase, noting it was "authorized" because the faculty, school improvement team, and School Advisory Council decided to purchase an accelerated reading program, and "unauthorized" because it was an honest mistake. She conveyed that a new media specialist had worked hard with this company, trying to bring down the prices because we did not need all of the books in the original kit, and had thought that she was reserving the price of $1700 for 30 days until the media clerk came back from sick leave. Three days later the package came in, and the media specialist advised to that effect. Ms. Pierce said she then called Mr. Boyer's office.

Mrs. Morris stated that she appreciated the explanation. She also commented that the principals had been asked to come to the workshops to provide an explanation on items such as this, but perhaps they could call the Board Members instead. Mr. May said he would be glad to do what the Board wished in that regard. Deputy Superintendent Jerome Watson noted that principals had been requested to appear previously this school year. Chairman Jenkins stated that in fairness, he would suggest continuing in this manner for the remainder of this term, and change the procedure at the beginning of the next school term if the Board wishes.

2.0 Administrative Departments

2.3 Addendum to Cox-SDEC Facilities and Services Agreement (Technological Systems/MIS)

Dr. DeWitt inquired concerning the pay off schedule. Mr. Boyer stated that Cox Communications provides a fiber optic connection to many of the schools, and this would extend to 5 additional schools through a lease purchase arrangement. The master agreement was drawn up about 3 years ago and Cox wanted a commitment of 60 months before starting work. The pay off schedule involves a penalty payout in the event of early termination. This is not an expenditure out of this year's budget. Mrs. Webb inquired as to whether this was committing us to anything and why this was not bid. Mr. Boyer stated this involved a cost of $39,880. Mr. Bill Bush, Director of Technological Systems and Management Information, advised that the intent was to keep costs down by utilizing and expanding the network already in place and as such, was basically sole source.

5.0 School Food Services

5.1 Support Agreement Approval: CAFS Point of Service Software Maintenance and Support

Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb, Mr. Boyer advised that CAFS is merging with another company and making an alternative offer. The addendum provides for that transition, which was not in the original agreement, and they will automatically upgrade the software as part of the existing maintenance agreement at no additional cost.

VIII. FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE

A. FACILITIES PLANNING

2. MISCELLANEOUS

d. NEW WESTSIDE K-8 SCHOOL

Request Board approval of the following ranking of firms for architectural services to prepare plans and specifications on the above referenced project. Also request Board's permission to negotiate with highest ranked firm.

1. Amspacher & Amspacher, Architects

2. Carlan Killam Consulting Group, Inc.

3. Bay Design Associates

4. Sam Marshall Architects

5. Bullock-Tice Associates Architects

Dr. DeWitt commented that he had no objection to the selection of the architect, but felt that it was important that the Board send the right message. He noted that there has been pressure to build inexpensive schools, and efforts to try to use a model like the Lipscomb design, but in addition to meeting state guidelines, the school should be driven by educational needs in the year 2000, including such things as computer ports for every student station, with wiring and technology designed into the building. Dr. Clarence Ladner, Special Assistant for School/Community Services, advised that the architect selection committee emphasized that quality is expected, as well as plans that address educational needs in terms of technology. Mrs. Webb inquired as to whether the architect could draw the plans before the site is determined. Dr. Epperson stated that the architect can do some preliminary design based on site assumption that we will be acquiring a level site for the most part, so the overall design of the facility can take place at that time. He noted that we are looking at the options on the Bronson Field property and other properties, but there is a time line on committing these dollars, and we need to have the architects on board now. It is important that they are involved in the initial stages of planning, and can provide input on sites as well. Mr. Bailey emphasized that the west side has been designated as the geographical area where the need has been determined for the school.

f. YEARLY ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Request Board permission to issue contract (effective May 1, 1998 through April 30, 1999, with two twelve month extensions) to Enviro-Pro-Tech, Inc., based on attached fee schedule, for performing environmental services under the above referenced yearly contract.

Dr. DeWitt inquired concerning $32 an hour fees for word processing. Mr. Kirchharr noted that was based on the adopted state fee schedule which is negotiated at the state level.

h. PERFORMANCE CONTRACTING

Request Board permission to request qualifications from Energy Service Companies.

Upon inquiry from Mrs. Morris, Dr. Epperson advised that staff was following up on the March presentation on performance contracting and asking the Board's permission to advertise for RFQs (Requests for Qualifications) for the energy services and bring those proposals to the Board.

i. TATE HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA AND SITE WORK

Request Board approval of the Phase III Construction Documents, on the above referenced project, for submittal to the Department of Education in Tallahassee.

Mrs. Webb asked if the concerns regarding the working stage were worked out to the satisfaction of the advisory council. Dr. Epperson said it was a limited working stage, within the constraints of a working stage that can be utilized within a cafeteria. Mr. Kirchharr stated that a meeting was held at Tate to address the concerns and they have signed off on the plans.

IX. CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION AND TRANSPORTATION

1. Approval of Textbook Adoptions.

Mr. Bailey commented that he had concerns regarding the Human Anatomy and Physiology book under biological sciences, with regard to the photographs in the book. He stated that he will make a motion recommending that the Board not accept that book (Course #2000350), and adopt the alternate book, Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology. During discussion, Chairman Jenkins noted that he had served on the state committee and all of those books were approved for state adoption. Mrs. Morris commented that in the local committee, three committee members voted against and seven voted for the Human Anatomy and Physiology book, and those were people the Board appointed to serve on the committee. Dr. Paula Gleason, Coordinator, Media Services, stated concerning the selection process, that Board policy and School District rules were followed, including advertising the meeting(s) to give the public the opportunity to present their ideas. She stated that she was comfortable with the process and recommendation of the committee.

Mr. Bailey discussed concerns that if students took the book home, younger children would have access to the book in terms of seeing the photographs.

Mr. Daniel Freeman, Science Specialist, stated that he had not heard any comments concerning the photographs in the book. He stated that the Human Anatomy and Physiology book is to be used in the honors class, and the alternate book is for the regular class. Chairman Jenkins noted that the book for the honors class is a higher level book.

Mrs. Webb stated that the Board did not receive copies of the minutes of the committee meetings, and she inquired as to the concerns raised at those meetings. Dr. Gleason stated that she would provide copies of the minutes to Board Members, and she deferred to Mr. Charles Thomas, Chairman of the Textbook Committee. Mr. Thomas stated that the only issues that were raised related to the book in question involved a section on contraception, and there had been no discussion related to pictures in the book by any committee member or anyone from the audience.

Mrs. Morris commented that legislation had been proposed that would require the District to purchase an extra set of textbooks for every student so they would have a textbook to take home and read, but the District cannot afford that. If the law passes, it will prohibit us from buying any ancillary materials or alternate books. She stated she would support the Textbook Selection Committee's recommendation to provide the Human Anatomy and Physiology book for advanced classes.

3. 1998-99 School-age Child Care Rate Proposals.

Dr. DeWitt noted this proposal would set new rates for child care for elementary schools next year. He commented that if the Superintendent recommends a new schedule (that would let middle school students out at 1:45 p.m.), after school care should be considered for the middle school children as well. He asked that staff look into the possibility of expanding this contract to provide programs at the same rate. Mrs. Morris noted the scheduling issue was not on the agenda this month. She commented that a meeting is to be held tomorrow concerning the issue and there were concerns as to the possibility of eliminating breakfasts at the high school level. She commented that she would like to see what the requirements and alternatives are in terms of who gets the breakfast program. She stated that she would also like to see figures on the active number of participants in the program. Chairman Jenkins spoke in favor of keeping the breakfast program.

Following discussion, Mr. Tommy Taylor, Director, Applied Technology and Adult Education, suggested that the child care rate proposal be considered as presented, and the Board could consider a contract amendment at the appropriate time if it is determined that there is a need for after school care for middle school students. It was also noted that transportation concerns would be a factor, and Dr. DeWitt suggested that perhaps a survey of parents could be done on this issue.

Mrs. Webb requested that the Board consider moving IX. Curriculum And Instruction items up on the agenda or address it earlier in the day. She commented that would give ample time to address what is going on in the classroom. Chairman Jenkins stated that would be no problem if the Board wanted to move it up, and he said he would address it with the Superintendent

Prior to recess, Mr. May asked if Board Members had any questions concerning the student recommendations under XI. Items From The Superintendent. Mrs. Webb inquired as to whether there were any ESE or ADHD students. Mr. Darriel White, Court Liaison, noted that one student was placed by the ESE Department. Another student is being tested and will be placed by the ESE Department if the testing shows ESE involvement.

The Board recessed at 11:43 a.m. and reconvened at 1:05 p.m. for the Special Board Workshop, with the Board Members, Superintendent, and School Board Attorney present. Upon conclusion of the Special Board Workshop at 3:12 p.m., the Regular Board Workshop reconvened at 3:14 p.m. with all present.

X. INTERNAL AUDITING

A. INTERNAL FUNDS

1. N. B. Cook Elementary for fiscal year 1996-97

Mrs. Morris noted that in every audit there is a comment to the effect that the school "prepares its financial statements on a cash basis, which is a comprehensive basis of accounting other than generally accepted accounting principles." She asked if we have held an in-service workshop or requested that this be done differently. She commented that if we are not requiring them to do this as accepted accounting principles, she would like to see that comment omitted. Mr. Sam Scallan, Director of Internal Auditing, stated that the purpose of reporting it in the audit report is to note that it is not considered generally accepted accounting principles, and that is something that he notes as Internal Auditor. Generally accepted accounting principles indicate that county records should be kept on accrual or modified accrual depending on the fund type, and historically, the schools have kept the books on a cash basis (recording cash when received and expenditure when paid). He noted that the same accounting system is used by School Districts throughout the state, and he questioned whether anyone would want to change it because of what it would entail.

2. Escambia High for fiscal year 1996-97

Mrs. Morris noted there were several comments under the audit, and the principal wrote an answer to those audit findings, which basically represents what happens in high schools. There was a comment about the vending machines because federal guidelines said they cannot have competitive food sales and all of the machines were put in under food services. In the cafeteria, machines have been set up that offer

nutritious food; i.e., drinks that are not carbonated, and they were cited for having the other machines open during that time, and typically the District has said that we need those machines closed during the lunch period; however, they can open during athletic activities and those types of things. She noted they did install four new machines. She commented that with the explanations given, she was pleased with the audit. Concerning the 1996/97 coaching fines, Mrs. Morris noted in one instance, a coach refused to pay the fine, even though the principal had told them they needed to. She discussed the possibility that the District require payment; otherwise, indicate that it would be recovered out of their next check. Mr. Ray stated that the District would have to get an additional agreement or authorization in place before that could be done.

3. Escambia Westgate Center for fiscal year 1996-97

4. Holm Elementary for fiscal year 1996-97

5. Warrington Elementary for fiscal year 1996-97

C. OTHER AUDITS

1. Escambia Charter School Review

Mrs. Morris noted there are concerns regarding the updated audit, and although the Escambia Charter School program itself is an excellent program, there may be some reservations about renewing the contract. They are currently operating with one of their Board Members serving as CEO for the school. Mr. Scallan advised that Mr. Stan Callender is the Acting Director; in addition, he is a paid employee who has assumed those responsibilities. He commented that the appointment of the president or CEO of that corporation would be up to their Board. Mrs. Morris noted it would still fall back on the responsibility of the District, and they have a three-year rotating contract, which should come to the Board for review this summer because of different personnel. Mr. May noted that the contract can be reviewed each year. Mr. Scallan advised that two language changes had been recommended and were forwarded to Mr. Thomas. Mrs. Morris suggested not waiting until July to address the matter, and Chairman Jenkins requested that it be brought back to the Board in May.

XI. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

3. Approval of Professional and Administrative Contracts for School Year 1998-99.

Mr. May noted that he was requesting extension of one year to the professional and administrative salary schedules, which would basically be two-year contracts for those personnel, with any exceptions as listed. Mrs. Morris stated that she had concerns and basically disagreed with roll-over contracts, which would automatically give the person two years every year. She commented that she understood that the problem with morale is better when principals have that type of contract, but there are a lot of people under professional and administrative salary schedules.

Mr. May noted there were recommendations for expulsion of 31 students (26 high school and 5 middle school students), with 17 of those involving drugs. Mrs. Morris said she would like to see a continuing emphasis on sending the message that drugs and/or alcohol will not be tolerated on campus. Mr. May discussed steps that are taken to get the message out, including workshops at the beginning of the year on the rights and responsibilities

handbook, which stresses zero tolerance for violence, drugs, and weapons, so the students and parents are aware of it.

XII. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD

No items were presented.

XIII. ITEMS FROM THE ATTORNEY

No items were presented.

XIV. PUBLIC FORUM

There were no speakers for the Public Forum.

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Chairman Jenkins requested that the Board consider the following dates: Special Board Meeting to discuss the Technical High School on May 5, 1998, at 1:30 p.m.; Regular Board Workshop on May 22, 1998, 9:00 a.m.; and Regular Board Meeting on Tuesday, May 26, 1998, at 7:00 p.m. It was noted that the Retirement Ceremony will be held on June 1, 1998, at 9:00 a.m. Graduations were also announced for various high schools.

The workshop adjourned at 3:57 p.m.

Attest:

Approved: