Board of Education Minutes 5/6/08

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Shenendehowa Central School District

Clifton Park, New York

Regular Board Meeting

May 6, 2008

MEMBERS PRESENT:	Ms. Bowles, Mr. Casey, Mr. DiLallo, Mrs. Grey, Mr. Huff, Mr. Mincher, Mrs. Wiggins
OTHERS PRESENT:	Mrs. DeFeciani, Dr. Dutkowsky, Mrs. Longhurst, Mr. Melia, Mr. Smith, Dr. Robinson, Dr. Snyder, Ms. Wetmore

Mr. Casey called the Public Meeting of the Board of Education to order at 6:30 p.m.

MOTION BY Mrs. Bowles, seconded by Mrs. Grey, to convene into Executive Session to discuss the School Physician and a Middle School Tenure Situation.

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

MOTION BY Mr. Huff, seconded by Mrs. Bowles, to return to the Public Meeting of the Board of Education.

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

The Public Meeting of the Board of Education was reconvened and called to order at 7:04 p.m.

Mr. Casey led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Announcements

Mr. Casey pointed out the exits from the meeting room.

Mr. Casey noted that the second Budget Hearing is being held this evening which is a requirement by law.

BUDGET HEARING

Dr. Robinson and Ms. Wetmore presented a PowerPoint presentation to those in attendance. (A copy of the presentation is on file in the official minutes folder.) An opportunity for the public to make comments and ask questions followed.

Ms. Kathy Ophardt was concerned about the possible elimination of the technology and foreign language programs if the budget did not pass. Dr. Robinson explained that a failed budget would impact everything including use of facilities. Every initiative would be examined to see what type of impact a cutback would make. It’s a very difficult dynamic to go through.

Dr. Robert Bennett expressed concerns regarding the cost to the District for medical and health insurance for employees. He noted that over an 18-month period, the medical insurance alone increased 12% or $2 billion in the budget. Projections average 10% to 12% for the next few years. At the end of three years, the increase would be approximately $3 billion. The financial burden would be placed upon everybody in the District while the employees are paying a mere .5% per year as their contribution toward the premium. The total for them for a four-year period is a mere 2%. In the 2010-2011 school year, they would be paying a maximum of 11%. Dr. Bennett wants to direct his question to the Superintendent and to the Board of Education and have them provide him with a rationalization and justification as to how this came about and why don’t employees contribute more to benefits.

Dr. Robinson explained that the District tries in many different ways to control the overall cost of the premiums. In the past few contracts, employees are contributing more to the percentage. The District is looking into a cost containment piece as a first priority and has to contend with this in negotiations and contracts.

Mr. Casey commented that we have a million square feet of property in the District covered by both the utility and grounds budget. In transportation, we cover 2 ½ million miles a year. We focus on getting the most efficiency with what we have.

Dr. Robinson closed the Budget Hearing by encouraging everyone to vote.

1. ADOPT AN AGENDA

MOTION BY Mr. DiLallo, seconded by Mrs. Wiggins, to accept this evening’s agenda as presented.

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

2. BOARD OF EDUCATION COMMENTS/REPORTS

Mrs. Wiggins commented that, as a Board member and as a parent, she is especially proud of the memory garden in front of High School East. She thanked all those who worked on it. She noted that the All-District Choral Festival on April 29 was phenomenal. She encouraged everyone to attend the jazz band concert on the 24^th. The Science Fair at Gowana was very successful and she congratulated those involved at the Middle School for their success.

Mr. DiLallo praised and thanked Heather Greene who is responsible for a program called Transition. Heather works with special needs students and is responsible to see that those students will transition into a productive life and become successful citizens. She makes sure the program is functioning and meeting the needs of these students.

Mr. DiLallo commented on the budget – Governor Patterson’s comments resonate with his. Day-to-day operating costs are what affects us most. However, on the same token, we have to address the needs of our students so they don’t lose something in the course of their education. Mr. DiLallo hopes that when our taxpayers go to the polls, they will realize that what the District is doing is what it believes is best for our students.

Mr. Mincher commented that in addition to the reporting on athletic competition in the Gazette, the academic side of Shenendehowa should also be mentioned. He had the opportunity to attend the NYS finals for National Geographic. It was wonderful to see the Middle School students work so hard and do so well. He thanked all of the students, teachers, and staff involved who make Shenendehowa successful academically.

Mrs. Grey directed her comments to the three people running for the Board. She believes they need to know how much work and love goes into this job. It takes special people who try to do what’s in the best interest of kids. She said the Board’s motto is, “Is this in the best interest of children?” Mrs. Grey sincerely believes the Board makes the right decisions when that question is used as a guiding light. It’s imperative that everyone get out and vote. It’s a role model for our children. Mrs. Grey also thanks Heather Greene for her great work.

Mr. Huff commented on the Middle School SAGE Science Activities Night. It was wonderful to see the turnout and the enthusiasm. Mr. Huff also commented on the Superintendent’s Saturday morning communications he has attended and feels it is important that the Board of Education attend as well as our key staff. He appreciated the turnout at Cheryl’s Lodge. It is important to have open communication to understand the issues. Mr. Huff urges people in the community to come to these meetings. He also encouraged everyone to be informed and make sure they vote.

Mrs. Bowles wished to echo everyone’s comments about the vote. She noted that a wealth of information has been provided and send kudos to Dr. Robinson, Ms. Wetmore and others who went to various meetings to get the word out. She encourages everyone to ask questions and have a dialogue with Board or staff members to discuss any concerns.

Mr. Casey added to Mr. Huff’s comments regarding Community Conversations. He felt “community” was being defined at Cheryl’s Lodge through linkage. This helps people to understand our programs and the relationships between them. Mr. Casey

also wanted everyone to note that 9^th grade recognition is Tuesday night and next Wednesday will be recognition night for 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th grades. He noted that most of the awards come from the community.

3. PUBLIC COMMENTS

a. Student Senate Representatives

Shivanthi Narendran and Patrick Maguire noted that they have both been re-elected to the Senate next year. Next Wednesday will be the official election and the new officers will be known at that time. Mr. Maguire reported on the News Channel 9 program called “How Cool is Your School?” Addison Neville created a film that appears on the Channel 9 website and Mr. Maguire encouraged everyone to view it. There is a prize of $2,000 and there is also filming equipment being awarded.

b. Residents

Mrs. Kathy Ophardt reported that she was very impressed with the Middle School Orientation. She also asked Dr. Robinson to look into grant money. She had concerns regarding possible usage of solar panels to reduce energy costs and additional classroom space for testing modifications.

Mrs. Erin Wallace commented on the community programs that have been held and thanked the Board of Education for making them possible. She finds it really amazing to see everyone coming together as a community.

4. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT

Dr. Robinson reported on the grant opportunities provided by Senator Bruno. In particular, he mentioned the Bascom E-Library to be established in Karigon/Orenda Elementary Schools. He introduced Mrs. Anita Daly, Mrs. Ricki Delmarico, and Dr. Ann Frantti who are working on a pilot program for a web library, a program called Literary Links which is a Pre-K program for students at Turf in Cheryl’s Lodge (an evening program), and the Bascom program for Cheryl’s Lodge.

Also present this evening were Mr. Kevin Dailey, former Supervisor of Clifton Park, and Mr. Ken DeCerce, former Supervisor of Halfmoon. They represent the Shenendehowa Foundation for Education which is restoring the Carillon Bells. They provided a project description and a picture showing a proposed design.

Included in the grant-in-aid from Senator Bruno are funds for MST Academy equipment, MS Lego League equipment, and Health and Wellness equipment.

Dr. Robinson noted that representatives from NYSRA (New York State Rehabilitation Association, Inc.) were present to recognize the fine work that Heather Greene has provided. It was explained that transition is required by law and Mr. Smith and Mrs. Greene have worked very closely with NYSRA to provide these services.

At this point, Dr. Robinson asked if Dr. Dutkowsky would please provide the information concerning Ms. Barbara Maciag who is a recipient of transition services through Mrs. Greene and is being appointed as a Food Service Helper this evening as part of our School Lunch Program.

MOTION BY Mrs. Wiggins, seconded by Mrs. Bowles, that the following appointment is made from the Staffing Recommendations for May 6, 2008:

Name: Barbara Maciag

Position: Food Service Helper (part-time); 3 hrs./day,

10 mos./yr.

Status: Probationary; Labor

Commencing: May 7, 2008

Salary: $10.43/hr. (School Lunch Part Time Schedule,

Step 1)

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

5. TENURE RECOMMENDATIONS

MOTION BY Mrs. Grey, seconded by Mr. DiLallo, that the tenure recommendations presented by Dr. Dutkowsky be accepted.

Name	Tenure Area	Date	Administrator

Christopher Keegan	Special Education	09/01/08	J. Bush
Kenneth McDermith	Academic Administrator for Family and Consumer Science, Business and Technology	09/01/08	T. Snyder
Tracy Morrell	Special Education	09/01/08	G. Pace
Jessica Palden	LOTE	09/01/08	D. Flynt
Maria Sanchez	Special Education	09/01/08	D. Flynt

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

6. INFORMATION ITEMS

a. Policy Governance – First Reading & Related Repeals – Policy 5710/Repeal 8410 (Transportation), Policy 7614 (Students with Disabilities), Policy 8440/Repeal 4730 (Instructional Arrangements)

Mrs. Longhurst presented these policies to the Board of Education for first reading.

b. Special Education Recognition

A letter was presented to the Board of Education from NYSRA (New York Sate Rehabilitation Association, Inc., announcing that the Shenendehowa High School “Adult Transition Team” has been named by the New York State Rehabilitation Association to receive a 2008 School/Community Partnership Certificate – Quality Practice Recognition Award.

c. Draft 2008-2009 School Calendar

Mrs. Longhurst presented the draft 2008-09 school calendar to the Board. She noted that school vacations, holidays and the first and last days of school are set; however, some Middle School half days and a change Regents dates are still being worked out.

b. Internal Claims Report

Mr. Casey noted that the Audit Committee may make some modifications to the monthly report. He also reported that Mr. Huff, who has served on the Audit Committee and is not running for re-election this year, will need to be replaced in this capacity and Mr. Casey is asking the Board to consider naming someone to serve on the Committee.

7. CONSENT ITEMS

Treasurers’ Report

MOTION BY Mrs. Bowles, seconded by Mrs. Grey, to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the month of March 2008.

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

Minutes

1) April 1, 2008

2) April 8, 2008

3) April 21, 2008

MOTION BY Mrs. Bowles, seconded by Mrs. Grey, to approve the minutes of April 1, April 8, and April 21, 2008, as presented.

Mr. Huff asked to have the third sentence on page 2 of the April 8 minutes read as follows: “However, he pointed out that we are conservative on the revenue side in our projections and is hopeful that the revenues will come in higher than our projections, as in the past, to have the tax rate be actually lower.”

Unanimously approved, motion carried with changes noted.

8. ACTION ITEMS

a. Students

1) Special Education Student Placement

Mr. Smith reported that we are in the third day of the Special Education Quality Review. Visitation is part of the Quality Review and the High School visitation was held on Thursday and the Middle School visitation will be held tomorrow.

MOTION BY Mr. Huff, seconded by Mrs. Wiggins, that the Board of Education accept the placements and services for the 2007-2008 school year and the 2008-2009 school year based upon the recommendation of the District Committee on Special Education, the Committee on Special Education Subcommittee, and the Committee on Preschool Special Education (a copy of this document is on file in the official minutes folder).

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

b. Personnel

1) Staffing

MOTION BY Mr. DiLallo, seconded by Mrs. Grey, to accept the staffing report as presented.

A. RETIREMENTS, with appreciation and regret

1) Certified Staff

a) Name: Deborah Smith

Tenure Area: Secondary Science

Reason: Retirement after 19 years

Commencing: August 15, 2008 (end of day)

b) Name: Harry Weiner

Tenure Area: Secondary English

Reason: Retirement after 35 years

Commencing: June 30, 2008 (end of day)

B. RESIGNATIONS

1) Certified Staff

a) Name: Kelly Keyes

Tenure Area: Elementary Education

Commencing: April 6, 2008 (end of day)

b) Name: Jodi Rajchel

Tenure Area: Physical Education

Commencing: June 30, 2008 (end of day)

C. LEAVE OF ABSENCE

1) Certified Staff

a) Name: Rebecca Bauer-Grabicki

Tenure Area: Special Education

Reason: Unpaid FMLA

Commencing: 05/18/08 – 06/30/08

b) Name: Megan Beauchamp

Tenure Area: School Counselor

Reason: Unpaid FMLA

Commencing: 05/23/08 – 06/30/08

c) Name: Carolyn Walton

Tenure Area: Elementary Education

Reason: Unpaid FMLA

Commencing: 05/28/08 – 06/30/08

2) Classified Staff

a) Name: Mary DiMaina

Position: Bus Driver

Reason: Unpaid Personal

Commencing: 03/20/08 – 06/30/08

D. EXTEND LEAVE OF ABSENCE

1) Certified Staff

a) Name: Judimarie Bodien

Tenure Area: LOTE

Reason: Unpaid Child Rearing

Commencing: first semester 2008-2009 school year

b) Name: Sarah Keyes

Tenure Area: Elementary Education

Reason: Unpaid Child Rearing

Commencing: 2008-2009 school year

c) Name: Tracy Rodriguez

Tenure Area: School Counselor

Reason: Unpaid Child Rearing

Commencing: First semester 2008-2009 school year

d) Name: Tricia Spain

Tenure Area: Secondary Mathematics

Reason: Unpaid Child Rearing

Commencing: first semester 2008-2009 school year

E. CHANGE OF EMPLOYMENT

1) Classified Staff

a) Name: Bradley Countermine

Position: Bus Driver

From: 2 hrs./day, 10 mos./yr.

To: 4 hrs./day, 10 mos./yr.

Commencing: May 7, 2008

Salary: $19.33/hr. (School Bus Driver Schedule, Step 2)

b) Name: Carol Coyle

Position: Teacher Aide (Special Education)

From: 6 ½ hrs./day, 10 mos./yr.

To: 6 hrs./day, 10 mos./yr.

Commencing: May 1, 2008

Salary: $16.43/hr. (Special Education Aide Schedule,

Step 4)

c) Name: Walter Reilly

Position: Bus Driver

From: 2 hrs./day, 10 mos./yr.

To: 4 ½ hrs./day, 10 mos./yr.

Commencing: May 7, 2008

Salary: $18.14/hr. (School Bus Driver Schedule, Step 1)

d) Name: John Robertson

Position: Bus Driver

From: 2 hrs./day, 10 mos./yr.

To: 4 ¾ hrs./day, 10 mos./yr.

Commencing: May 7, 2008

Salary: $18.14/hr. (School Bus Driver Schedule, Step 1)

F. ABANDONMENT OF POSITION

1) Classified Staff

a) Name: Ronald Schongar

Position: Bus Driver

Commencing: May 6, 2008 (end of day)

G. MODIFICATION OF EMPLOYMENT

1) Classified Staff

a) Name: Dawn Huestis

Position: School Monitor (Secondary); 8 hrs./day,

10 mos./yr.

Status: Probationary, Labor

From Commencing: April 9, 2008

To Commencing: April 21, 2008

Salary: $13.98/hr. (Secondary School Monitor Schedule,

Step 1)

b) Name: Deborah Marino

Position: School Monitor (Secondary); 3 ¾ hrs./day,

10 mos./yr.

Status: Probationary, Labor

From Commencing: April 21, 2008

To Commencing: May 1, 2008

Salary: $13.98/hr. (Secondary School Monitor Schedule,

Step 1)

H. APPOINTMENTS - (These appointments are conditioned on the school district’s receipt of a clearance for the employee from the State Education Department following a criminal history records check in accordance with the provisions of Education Law § 3035).

1) Classified Staff

a) Name: Marion Happel

Position: Account Clerk Typist

Commencing: 04/09/08 – 07/08/08

Salary: not to exceed $3,000

b) Name: Barbara Maciag

Position: Food Service Helper (part-time); 3 hrs./day,

10 mos./yr.

Status: Probationary; Labor

Commencing: May 7, 2008

Salary: $10.43/hr. (School Lunch Part Time Schedule,

Step 1)

c) Name: Margie Oliveira

Position: Food Service Helper (part-time); 3 hrs./day,

10 mos./yr.

Status: Probationary; Labor

Commencing: May 7, 2008

Salary: $10.43/hr. (School Lunch Part Time Schedule,

Step 1)

d) Name: Terrance Rigney

Position: Bus Driver; 2 hrs./day, 10 mos./yr.

Status: Probationary, Labor

Commencing: May 7, 2008

Salary: $18.14/hr. (School Bus Driver Schedule, Step 1)

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

c. Business Affairs

1) Re-appropriation of 2007-2008 Budget

MOTION BY Mrs. Bowles, seconded by Mrs. Grey, that the Board of Education approve a budget re-appropriation in the amount of $146,115 to allow the District to expend the grant-in-aid received from Senator Bruno.

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

2) Xerox Contracts

MOTION BY Mrs. Bowles, seconded by Mrs. Grey, that the Board of Education approve the upgraded 48-month lease with Xerox Corporation to replace 17 of the WCP90 units across the District with 17 4595CP units at a monthly savings of $1,931.02 per month. The new contract will be effective on July 1, 2008.

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

3) Disposal of Non-public Textbooks - BOCES

MOTION BY Mrs. Bowles, seconded by Mrs. Grey, that the Board of Education authorize Capital Region BOCES to sell, discard, destroy, or donate to a not-for-profit organization the textbooks on the attached list (list filed in the official minutes folder), which have been determined to have no appreciable market value.

Unanimously approved, motion carried.

4) Resolution Appointing Chief Inspector and Inspectors of Election

MOTION BY Mrs. Bowles, seconded by Mrs. Grey, to recommend that the Board of Education approve the following resolution authorizing the District Clerk to appoint the Chief Inspector and Inspectors of Election for the District Vote to be held on May 20, 2008:

A RESOLUTION authorizing the District Clerk to appoint Chief Inspector and Inspectors of Election for the District Vote to be held on May 20, 2008.

BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS BY THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF SHENENDEHOWA CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT AT CLIFTON PARK, SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK.

SECTION 1. The following persons are hereby appointed as Inspectors of Election for the District Meeting of the qualified voters of this school district, which vote will be held on May 20, 2008:

Marion Happel, Chief Inspector