The School Board of Escambia County, Florida, convened in Workshop Meeting at 9:03 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 9:03 a.m. by Chairman Jenkins.

II. COMMENTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT

Superintendent May listed the additions and deletions to the agenda. Dr. DeWitt added one item for discussion under XII. Items from the Board. Mr. May announced that Washington High School had been selected as the 1997-98 Class 5A winner of the Florida High School Activities Association (FHSAA) Fred E. Rozelle Sportsmanship Award.

PRESENTATION:

Mr. May asked the presenters to come forward relative to the Collaborative Bargaining presentation. Dr. Douglas Garber, Director, Employee Services, advised that consultations had taken place with the three support units and the teachers' unit to establish the collaborative bargaining process, and the memoranda of understanding (XI. Items from the Superintendent, Item #2), represent a final agreement establishing a procedure for collaborative bargaining. Ms. Kathy Terrell, Chairperson, EEA Bargaining Committee, advised that an equal number of teachers and administrators are involved in collaborative bargaining, and consensus is used in all decisions. Two subcommittees (Human Resources, and Finance and Compensation) have been established to make recommendations to the collaborative team, and issues will be reported to the School Board on a quarterly basis. Ms. Ellen Lawrence, UniServ Director, Escambia NEA, shared information concerning the ESP Collaborative Bargaining Council (CBC), noting that customer requirements and aims were established, similar to the Strategic Aims established by the District. An Issues Review Committee has been established, as well as four standing committees (Finance, Employee Education and Training, Collaboration and Communication, and Human Resources and Management), and the CBC will make final recommendations to the School Board.

The Board Attorney advised that he was not involved in developing this process and that Dr. Garber had secured the approval of Mr. Michael Mattimore, School District Special Labor Counsel, with the understanding that the Memoranda of Understanding complied with Florida Statutes, Chapter 447.

III. PROPOSED ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO SCHOOL DISTRICT RULES

A. Permission to Advertise

1. 6Gx17-2.15 ANNUAL LEAVE

2. 6Gx17-2.17 SICK LEAVE

3. 6Gx17-2.30 RETIREMENT INCENTIVE

4. 6Gx17-2.36 DROP - DEFERRED RETIREMENT OPTION PROGRAM

Upon inquiry from Dr. DeWitt, Ms. Gloria Johnson, Director of Payroll, advised that the financial impact will depend on how many people enter the program. Following discussion, it was noted that the DROP program is required by state law, and District policies on annual leave, sick leave and retirement incentive are being updated to coincide with the program.

5. 6Gx17-7.09 PUPIL PROGRESSION PLAN

Dr. DeWitt spoke in favor of extending the school calendar beyond 180 schools days. He expressed concern that philosophical statements were not included: 1) for special education children to be more mainstreamed on a co-teaching model; and 2) for teaching foreign language in elementary schools. He also cited concerns regarding special promotions.

B. Permission to Adopt

4. 6Gx17-7.02 CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT: ELEMENTARY RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

6Gx17-7.02 CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT: SECONDARY RIGHTS AND

RESPONSIBILITIES

Dr. DeWitt noted that language throughout the text had been changed to reflect "disabled" student(s), but should be changed to "student with a disability" consistent with federal law. Chairman Jenkins requested that the language be changed.

IV. STUDENT TRANSFERS

Mrs. Webb commented that state law requires an annual agreement relative to out-of-county and out-of-state students. After discussion, she requested that the Board Attorney look into it and advise the Board. Mrs. Webb inquired concerning a transfer that was denied regarding an ESE student. Mr. Gene Pettis, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, advised that Mr. Ireland Brock, Director, Pupil Instructional Support Services, and Ms. Yvonne Gray, Director of ESE, had conferred with the parent as to which school would be more accessible, and the appeal process is available to them.

V. HUMAN RESOURCES

A. Instructional

8. Special Requests

(8) Request approval to reappoint Thomas Ingram, Instructional Technology Support Technician for the 1998-99 school year on the professional salary schedule. He will be paid from Technology Grant funds.

Mrs. Webb requested that staff provide information concerning the dollar amount.

(10) Listing of teachers working summer school.

Mrs. Morris commented that directors of facilities such as ReDirections, Lakeview, and Boys Base, need to be on twelve month contracts, noting those are crucial areas that require additional work. After discussion, Mr. May suggested that Mr. Pettis could look into that possibility.

B. Educational Support Personnel

7. Special Requests

Request establishment of Heavy Equipment Mechanic position in Transportation Garage, pay grade 21. Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb, Mr. Ted Kirchharr, Director of Facilities Planning, advised that pay grade 21 is $11.57 an hour.

VI. FINANCE

4. Statement from School Board Attorney for legal services performed during the month of April 1998.

5. Statement from Attorney to Superintendent for legal services performed during the month of April 1998.

Concerning Item Numbers 4 and 5, Mrs. Webb commented that once public record issues have been researched, they should not be billed again. Mr. Ray referenced an entry on 4/9/98 regarding public records law on behalf of the School District, and he noted that a filing system is maintained to document research. Mrs. Webb stated that she was contacted by the Attorney General regarding an alleged dispute concerning public records, and that she will probably request mediation in that regard. After discussion, Mr. Bailey called the question.

Upon inquiry from Dr. DeWitt, Mr. Kirchharr advised concerning one-half cent sales tax monies, that initial revenues were allocated to various projects with the understanding that amendments would be done for internal budgeting and will not impact the Holm Elementary School budget.

VII. PURCHASING

A. AWARD BIDS

6.0 Facilities Planning

6.4 Annual Agreement for Moving Portables, Bid #38-98

Mrs. Morris inquired as to whether the vendor was local. Mr. Barry Boyer, Purchasing Manager, stated that the vendor was not local; however, an amended recommendation is forthcoming.

B. AUTHORIZATION TO NEGOTIATE AND PURCHASE

2.0 Administrative Departments

2.1 Annual Renewal for Consulting Services - Employee Benefit Program (Risk Management)

2.2 Administration of Hepatitis "B" Shots (Risk Management)

Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb concerning Item Numbers 2.1 and 2.2, Mr. Boyer advised that amended backup was provided relative to contract dates.

2.11 Compaq Pentium II Microcomputer Equipment (Technological Systems/MIS)

Upon request from Mrs. Webb, Mr. Bill Bush, Director of Technological Systems and MIS, indicated that he would check to see if Compaq was still giving away file servers, as indicated over the Internet.

6.0 Facilities Planning

6.1 Architectural Services for New West Side K-8 School

Mrs. Webb inquired as to whether the architectural plan for Lipscomb Elementary could be utilized. Mr. May noted that Lipscomb was K-5, and architectural work would be needed to address technology for a K-8 school. Dr. David Epperson, Assistant Superintendent for Facilities Planning and Maintenance, stated that the architects will design according to the educational specifications, with input from staff and the educational team. Mrs. Webb stated that she would like to be informed as to when meetings occur. Mrs. Morris requested that staff keep the Board informed, and she emphasized that the total Board should be involved in terms of providing input. Dr. Epperson advised that information on property is forthcoming from Realtors and will be provided to the Board.

6.2 Architectural/Planner Services for Site Work at Yniestra Elementary School and Media Center at Hallmark Elementary School

Mrs. Morris spoke in favor of locating the Media Center downstairs, and Mr. Kirchharr advised that this will be an entirely new building. Dr. Epperson added that information is forthcoming from a Realtor concerning property.

VIII. FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE

A. FACILITIES PLANNING

1. FINAL PAYMENTS:

a. REROOFING THE PICKENS BUILDING

Request final payment in the amount of $7,025.00 to Progressive Roofing, contractor, on the above referenced project.

P.O. #168106 FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT: $70,250.00

Mrs. Webb commented that the check off list was not provided. Mr. Kirchharr stated that the new form had been developed to document completion of projects, with sign off by the architect, department head, school staff, Facilities Planning contact, and Facilities Planning Director. Mrs. Morris inquired concerning project costs in comparison to $67,000 for roofing the field house at Carver Middle School. Mr. Kirchharr advised that the roof at Carver was more damaged.

Dr. DeWitt presented the following items for discussion relative to facilities:

1) At Workman Middle School, one portable has been used as a classroom for children with severe handicaps, and the principal has suggested closing the portable down in order to move that class into the sixth grade wing. Staff provided a cost estimate of $8,000 for renovations to make two bathrooms handicapped accessible. Discussion was held with Ms. Gray as to possible funding sources, and Dr. DeWitt suggested looking into federal grant monies for renovation.

2) Board Members discussed the possibility of moving School Board Meetings to the Hall Center, Room 160, which can accommodate more people; in addition, parking is available at the Hall Center. Staff provided an estimate of $12,000 to construct a permanent dias, not including electrical modification. Dr. Jenkins suggested leaving the existing Board Meeting Room intact.

2. MISCELLANEOUS

a. CLASSROOM ADDITIONS AT PLEASANT GROVE ELEMENTARY 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 permission to negotiate with highest ranked firm.

1. Bay Design Associates

2. Heffernan Holland Architecture

3. Strobel & Hunter, Inc.

3. Quina/Grundhoefer/Royal Architects

4. David Volkert & Associates

Mrs. Morris asked if there was enough space for a building, and Dr. Epperson stated that acquisition of property will have to be addressed eventually, but the site will accommodate these additions.

Mrs. Morris left the workshop at 11:04 a.m. due to a previous commitment.

IX. CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION AND TRANSPORTATION

Dr. DeWitt stated that he had sent a memorandum to staff asking that information be provided relative to evaluation criteria on the quality of the contracted services. According to the contract language included last year, an evaluation summary was to be submitted with every monthly or quarterly invoice, and not just the numbers, but information as to how their projects helped children. Mr. Gene Pettis, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and Dr. Garth Grove, Guidance, addressed contractual requirements. It was noted that some of the vendors prepared a summary report, and Board Members were provided a copy of evaluations on the mental health counselor contracts. Regarding contracts with the Bay Centre for Counseling and Educational Services and the Center for Personal and Family Development, surveys have been sent out to families, and that information is forthcoming.

1. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Historic Pensacola, Inc.

Dr. Jackie Young, Curriculum Specialist, Social Studies, reported that this program provides fourth grade field trips and all but one elementary school participated this year. In-service was provided for teachers and the program also contributes to success of the History Fair and National History Day each year.

2. Agreement between the Escambia County School Board and Pensacola Junior College for the dual enrollment Fine Arts Summer Music Theatre Program.

Dr. Larry Reed, Fine Arts Specialist, referenced a letter from Mr. Don Snowden, Department Head, Music and Theatre, Pensacola Junior College, relative to the success of this program.

3. Contract between the Arts Council of Northwest Florida and the School Board of Escambia County.

Dr. Reed noted that this contract provides in-service training for teachers through The University of West Florida and the Arts Council.

4. Modification #1 Contract between ESCAROSA Regional Workforce Development Board and the School Board of Escambia County, Florida JTPA- 98-03.

5. Contract between ESCAROSA Regional Workforce Development Board and the School Board of Escambia County, Florida.

Mr. Tommy Taylor, Director, Applied Technology and Adult Education, advised that the Summer Youth Program employs 575 youths, and represents a joint effort on the part of the community, businesses, and the School District.

6. Modification #1, Contract between ESCAROSA Regional Workforce Development Board and the School Board of Escambia County, Florida JTPA 98-04.

7. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Judy Kolinsky, LMHC.

8. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Sandra Kerns, MGd, MSW, LCSW.

9. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Youth Assistance Program of Northwest Florida, Inc.

10. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Pensacola Junior College.

11. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Chris A. Bailey, LMHC.

12. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Mimi Chappius, LMHC.

13. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and the Lakeview Center for Counseling and Educational Services.

14. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and the Bay Centre for Counseling and Educational Services.

15. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Carlos Jazan, LMHC.

16. Contract between the Escambia County School Board, Florida and HOSTS CORPORATION.

17. Contract between the Escambia County School Board and 100 Black Men of Pensacola, Inc.

Mr. Pettis noted this contract calls for an annual report by June 30, 1998, regarding program performance and student outcomes.

18. Contract between the Escambia County School Board and 100 Black Men of Pensacola, Inc.

19. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and Hurricane Island Outward Bound School.

20. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and Linda Harris Consultants, d/b/a LCH Consultants.

21. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and P.A.C.E. Center for Girls/Pensacola.

Mr. Pettis noted that this contract requires an annual report by June 30, 1998, summarizing activities and successes during the year.

22. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and Pensacola Family Care for Youth, Inc. STARS Program.

23. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and AltaCare of Pensacola. (Rivendell)

24. Contract for Charter Agreement between Beulah Academy of Science, Inc. and the School Board of Escambia County.

Mr. Pettis noted that the contract includes language regarding the 20% minority requirement or plan (consistent with the Augustus case), as well as the requirement for certified staff, and is moving forward in terms of meeting these concerns prior to the opening of the school.

25. Grant Application for the Beulah Academy of Science, Inc. Public Charter Schools Federal Program Start-up Grant application.

Mr. Pettis advised that this is a one-time application for federal dollars, through the State of Florida, for start-up money in the amount of $50,000.

26. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and the Community Drug and Alcohol Commission (CDAC), and Lincoln Park and A.A. Dixon Elementary Schools.

27. License for Nonfederal Use of Real Property.

28. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and the Community Drug and Alcohol Commission.

29. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and the Community Drug and Alcohol Commission.

30. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and the Community Drug and Alcohol Commission.

31. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and West Florida Child Care & Education Services, Inc., d/b/a Children's Services Centers.

32. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and Escambia Bay Marine Institute.

33. Contract between the School Board of Escambia County and Gulf Wind Council of Camp Fire, Inc.

34. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and the Community Drug and Alcohol Commission (CDAC).

35. Even Start Family Literacy Program.

Ms. Linda Harris reported that the federal grant requires an annual evaluation, and she shared an excerpt from that document addressing the components of adult education, literacy, early childhood education, and parenting education.

36. Clinical Education Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida, and Neal Clinic.

37. Education Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Department of Veterans' Affairs Outpatient Clinic.

38. Jobs for Florida's Graduates, Competitive Grant Application.

Mr. Taylor noted that this item involves JAG (Jobs for American Graduates)/

JFG (Jobs for Florida's Graduates), which is a school-to-work transition program for at-risk youth.

39. 1998-99 School Advisory Council Memberships.

40. Florida Learn & Serve K-12.

41. Contract for Services between School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services of Northwest Florida, Inc. 1998-99.

42. Cooperative Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Escambia County Sheriff's Department 1998-99.

43. Cooperative Agreement between the Escambia County School Board Exceptional Student Education Services and the Department of Labor and Employment Security Division of Vocational Rehabilitation 1998-99.

44. Cooperative Agreement between School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Northwest Florida Crippled Children's Association 1998-99.

45. Cooperative Agreement between School Board of Escambia County, Florida and United Cerebral Palsy of Northwest Florida, Inc. 1998-99.

46. Cooperative Agreement between School Board of Escambia County, Florida and Association for Retarded Citizens/Escambia 1998-99.

47. Mobile Dental Unit.

48. Charter Agreement between Escambia Charter School, Inc. and the School Board of Escambia County, Florida.

Mr. Pettis advised that concerns have been addressed regarding staffing, as well as the busses, and the busses are running. Language regarding certified staff has been included in the contract, as well as recommendations from the Internal Auditing Department.

In further discussion, Mrs. Webb expressed concern that individuals in all of the programs must possess the qualifications needed to help children. Chairman Jenkins stated that he would confer with the Superintendent as to arranging some conferences so that some of the groups could confer with Board Members in terms of what these programs do. Mr. Pettis commented that some of the students could be invited to share what a specific program has done for them.

Ms. Yvonne Gray, Director of ESE, commented relative to contracts with agencies, that the Individual Disabilities Act requires cooperation with agencies and that has resulted in more services to those 18 to 21 years of age, as young adults move into independence with the goal of becoming more productive citizens. Dr. DeWitt noted there had been some criticism in the press regarding Westgate, and he emphasized that the Board totally supports the Westgate Center, which is well-run and is one of the best facilities in the country. Discussion was held regarding the need for the center and that many children benefit from it.

Mr. Pettis stated that the summary evaluations requested will be provided to the Board, and the new contracts will include an addendum to specify reporting and evaluation requirements.

X. INTERNAL AUDITING

There was no discussion on this item.

XI. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Mr. May advised that one student had requested a formal hearing, and the student recommendations involve 15 high school students and 15 middle school students, with 11 incidents involving weapons and 7 involving drugs. Upon inquiry from Mrs. Webb, Mr. Ray advised that the Zero Tolerance Agreement is in development related to Board Policy.

XII. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD

1. Item from Chairman Jenkins - Chairman Jenkins stated that he will add one item at the Board meeting.

2. Item from Dr. DeWitt - Dr. DeWitt reported concerning a meeting in Washington yesterday, that the Chamber of Commerce Task Force had met at the Pentagon and talked with staff of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, and staff of the Assistant Secretary of Logistics regarding the Bronson Field property and our concerns related to paying the hookup costs. He noted that they had indicated their willingness to address the issue through the chain of command and they expressed their support.

3. Item from Mrs. Webb - Mrs. Webb stated that citizens had expressed concerns to the County Commission regarding a development permit to add 300 homes to the Maple Oaks subdivision, located east on Ten Mile Road from Highway 29, in terms of the impact it would create on traffic, ingress/egress, and schools in the area. Additional concerns were expressed regarding a landlocked area by three schools (Lipscomb, Westgate, and McArthur) and the need for alternative exit routes for safety reasons. Discussion was held concerning establishing an Interlocal Agreement for intergovernmental coordination on planning issues.

RECESS

Chairman Jenkins called for a five-minute break at 12:34 p.m., and the workshop reconvened at 12:40 p.m.

4. Item from Mrs. Webb - Mrs. Webb advised that Mr. Jack Kelly was present to give a brief presentation relative to a possible site for a K-8 school. Mr. Jack Kelly, 3331 Summit Boulevard, Pensacola, Florida, filed for the record a document entitled "Local Government Comprehensive Planning and Land Development Regulation Act." He referenced a Storm Surge Evacuation map, Silver Spring Estates map and briefly reviewed the proposed development. Following discussion, Dr. DeWitt inquired as to whether Mr. Kelly proposed to donate land for a school. Mr. Kelly stated as long as it is used for a school. Discussion was also held regarding infrastructure costs. Upon inquiry from the Board Attorney, it was noted that an old landfill (with environmental problems) is located immediately to the east of this property, and Mr. Kelly stated that will be checked further. Mr. Kelly commented that this project is large enough to pay for its own streets and roads. After discussion, Mr. Kelly advised that the property description, map, and location are referenced in the petition.

XIII. ITEMS FROM THE ATTORNEY

There was no discussion on this item.

XIV. PUBLIC FORUM

There were no speakers for public forum.

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Prior to adjournment, the Chairman asked Board Members to consider the following tentative meeting dates: Regular Board Workshop, June 22, 1998, 1:30 p.m.; and Regular Board Meeting, June 23, 1998, 7:00 p.m. An Executive Session will be held on Friday, May 29, 1998, at 9:00 a.m. for bargaining.

The workshop adjourned at 1:13 p.m.

Attest:

Approved: