Att. 3
Memorandum
| WAYNE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | ||||
| DATE: April 27, 2005 | |
| TIME: 7:30 p.m. | |
| PLACE: District Office |
| Call to Order /Pledge of Allegiance | |||
| 7:30 | Approval of Agenda/Approval of Minutes ( March 24 and April 4 ) | |
| Att. 1 | ||
| 7:35 | Public Comment | ||
| 7:40 | Board Member Comments | ||
| 7:45 | Board President’s Comments | ||
| 7:50 | Action Item Report | ||
| 7:55 | Superintendent’s Report: | ||
| 1. | MS Goals Report | ||
| 2. | CSEA Contract Discussion | ||
| 3. | Board Retreat | ||
| 4. | Student Questions | ||
| 8:45 | Break | |
| 8:50 | Board Action Items: | ||
| 1. Personnel Action | |||
| Att. 2 | |||
| 2. CSE Action | |||
| Att. 3 | |||
| 3. Adopt CSEA Contract | |||
| Att. 4 | |||
| 3. Consensus Agenda: | |||
| Att. 5 | |||
| 1. | Accept Treasurer’s Report | ||
| 2. | BOCES Administrative Budget & Board Member Vote | ||
| 3. | Adopt 2005-06 School Calendar | ||
| 4. | Approve Budget Transfer | ||
| 5. | Approve Health Contracts | ||
| 6. | Award Bids | ||
| 7. | Approve Change Order | ||
| 8:50 | Policy – Second Reading | |
| Att. 6 | ||
| Public Comment/Board Comments | ||
| 9:00 | Adjournment | ||
| Next Meeting: May 5, 2005 – Budget Hearing 7:00 p.m. | ||
| District Office Conference Room | ||
| District Mission Statement | |
| Based on the belief that all students can learn, the staff of the Wayne Central School District accepts the responsibility to teach all students, regardless of differences, the fundamental skills. We further accept the responsibility to challenge all students to attain higher levels of achievement. Wayne Central will provide the opportunity, environment, and encouragement to meet this goal while developing the whole child, physically, socially, emotionally, and culturally. | |
| Att. 1(a) | |
| WAYNE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Ontario Center, New York 14520 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES | UNOFFICIAL UNTIL APPROVED | |||||||||||||||||||
| DATE: Thursday, March 24, 2005 | TIME: 6:00 p.m. | |||||||||||||||||||
| TYPE: Regular Business Meeting | PLACE: Freewill Elementary School | |||||||||||||||||||
| PRESENT: Trustees Brunner, Diller Lyke, Robusto, Schultz, Triou, Wyse; District Clerk Switzer; Administrators Havens, Armitage, Pirozzolo, La Ruche, Siracuse, Cox, Atseff, Spring, Blankenberg, Green | ||||||||||||||||||||
| ABSENT: Trustees Griswold & Johnson | ||||||||||||||||||||
| GUESTS: Visitor’s Roster filed in clerk’s agenda file, this meeting | ||||||||||||||||||||
| I. | CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 p.m. by John D. Triou, School Board President | |||||||||||||||||||
| II. | WORKSHOP SESSION • Discussion With Independent Auditor | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Triou noted that this portion of the business meeting is designated as a workshop session for the purpose of review and discussion of topics with Raymond P. Wager, the district’s independent auditor. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens reviewed the history of tax levy increases over the past five (5) years and Mr. Atseff reviewed the projected and actual revenues and the level of unexpended funds in each of those years. He noted that unexpended funds not budgeted as fund balance for the subsequent fiscal year are available to allocate to varied reserve funds and that Mr. Wager is here this evening to review the use of reserve funds and discuss long-range financial planning. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wager opened his remarks with a reminder to trustees of the importance of adhering to a long-range fiscal strategy to the success of the annual operating budget. He noted that the Board of Education has varied options for allocation of unexpended funds at the conclusion of each fiscal year to offset the impact of specific expenses on the annual property tax levy and operating budget. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| He noted that the school district presently has the following reserve funds in place: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Capital Reserve Fund: This reserve fund is designed to set aside funds for future capital improvements of school facilities. The present balance of the fund is $567,000. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Lyke asked if voter approval is required to use the monies in this reserve fund: Mr. Wager stated that voters must approve the fund and the maximum amount allowed. Mr. Havens stated that the maximum amount of the fund is presently set at $5 million. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wyse asked if the Board of Education can seek voter approval to use funds in the capital reserve fund for items created in a prior capital project. Mr. Wager reviewed the definition of items eligible for use in a capital reserve fund, with voter approval. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Lyke asked when the voters of the district authorized the $5 million ceiling for this reserve fund; Mr. Havens stated that it was set at the annual school election in 2004. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Schultz asked how a capital reserve fund works; Mr. Wager provided an explanation. He noted that a Board of Education could establish multiple capital reserve funds if approved by voters. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if the allowable use of a capital reserve fund is solely for capital projects. Mr. Wager stated that was correct. He further clarified that the purpose and amount of the fund requires voter approval. He added that the Board of Education can allocate monies to the capital reserve fund on their own motion if unexpended funds are available but it can never exceed the total maximum amount of the fund approved by voters of the school district. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Brunner asked what term is recommended for long-range planning in use of reserve funds. Mr. Wager stated that a term of three (3) to five (5) years is recommended. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens cited the future potential for adding space to Ontario Primary School to serve students in grades K to 5 and retiring the use of Ontario Elementary School for non-student use as an example of long-term financial planning and use of reserve funds to offset any additional property tax levy. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Lyke asked if the Board of Education could have established a similar reserve fund in prior years to provide funding for the employer share of contributions to employee retirement systems to avoid variations in cost, and budget impact, in subsequent years. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wager stated that there was not authorization for a retirement reserve fund until last year when state laws were enacted to allow governmental agencies to help cushion the blow from increases in costs to them for the NYS Employee Retirement System (for non-teaching employees), only. Previously, the Board of Education could only have placed unexpended funds in a liability reserve fund. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| School Bus Purchase Reserve Fund: With approval of the voters of the district, the Board of Education can establish this reserve fund to set aside funds for future purchase of school busses. It is funded by allocation of unexpended funds by the Board of Education, by state aid received for purchase of school busses and by revenue from sale of surplus school busses. Use of monies in the fund and the maximum amount of the fund requires the approval of voters of the school district. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Insurance Reserve Fund: This reserve fund is established for deposit of available funds to pay for loss not covered by insurance policies. In terms of financial planning, the Board of Education could increase in the deductible amount of insurance policies and reduce the allocation for insurance expense in the general operating budget and pay district costs from the insurance reserve fund. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked what kind of insurance coverage an insurance reserve fund could purchase; Mr. Wager stated it could pay for property casualty insurance. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Liability Reserve Fund: This reserve fund is established for payment of any issues related to employees such as legal fees; the current balance in this fund is $431,000. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if these reserve funds could pay for salaries of staff members who are on a paid leave of absence. Mr. Wager stated that the use of these funds is allowed for anything except for purchase of computer equipment. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Unemployment Insurance Reserve Fund: This reserve fund is established to pay claims against the school district for unemployment insurance. The present amount is $74,000. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if the school board is self-insured for this fund; Mr. Wager stated it is. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Schultz asked for clarification on approvals for use of the reserve funds. Mr. Wager stated that the liability reserve, insurance reserve and unemployment reserve funds only require action by the Board of Education for creation and for use. They do not require voter approval for use. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked what maximum amount is allowed for the school bus purchase reserve fund and how those funds are used. Mrs. Lyke asked what the term of the school bus purchase reserve fund is. Mr. Atseff stated that the maximum amount and the term of the fund is set by voter approval; the maximum amount of the fund is presently $4 million with a three-year term. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Employee Retirement System Contribution Reserve Fund: This reserve fund was established by the state legislature in 2004 to allow the state, counties, towns, and villages to set aside funds for their obligations for retirement incentives for members of the NYS Employees Retirement System (ERS). There is no limit on the amount that this reserve fund could contain and use would occur after public hearing by the respective legislative board. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if it is considered as a “savings account” for future use, as needed. Mr. Wager stated that was correct. He added that the law allows use of this fund only for members of the NYS Employees Retirement System (ERS) but not for members of the NYS Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS). Since the use of monies deposited in this reserve fund is for a specific purpose, he does not advise allocating a large amount of unexpended balance to such a reserve fund. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Retirement Incentive Reserve Fund: This fund allows the Board of Education to set aside funds for payment of retirement incentives to staff members who are eligible to retire through the NYS Employees Retirement System (ERS) that covers non-teaching employees. The amount of the fund is based on estimated future costs for such expenses and allows the Board of Education to meet those obligations without additional costs to the operating budget. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Triou asked if the fund must include monies for specific employees; Mr. Wager stated that was correct. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Lyke asked how far ahead the Board of Education can project staff retirement expenses. Mr. Wager stated that the collective bargaining agreement will provide direction in terms of the amount of an incentive and age eligibility which would determine those factors. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto suggested that the Board of Education review a three (3) to five (5) year forecast of the staff members eligible for incentives when they consider the amount of such a reserve fund. Mr. Havens stated that he does plan to include projections for retirement incentive and pension contributions in the long-range financial plan for consideration by the Board of Education of the allocation of any unspent funds at the end of the fiscal year. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if the long-range financial plan would also include student enrollment projections. Mr. Havens stated such projections are included as they relate to space and staff planning. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Employee Retirement Benefits Reserve Fund: This reserve fund is new in the past five (5) years and allows a school district to set aside funds for local retirement incentives of employees. The Board of Education must specifically identify the employee(s) who would retire and the amount of bonus or incentive that each employee is eligible. Payment of those benefits from such a reserve fund removes the expense from the operating budget. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked how this reserve fund differs from the NYD Employee Retirement System benefit reserve fund. Mr. Wager noted that the employee retirement system reserve fund allows the Board of Education to set aside funds for their annual share of pension contributions for staff members who are members of the NYS Employees Retirement System | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (ERS). The retirement benefits reserve fund allows the Board of Education to set aside funds for future retirement bonus or incentive payments set forth in the local collective bargaining agreement. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Lyke noted that this would allow the Board of Education to plan ahead and set aside for incentive or bonus payments for employees if such were part of a collective bargaining agreement and remove such costs from the general operating budget in the year(s) when those persons retire and become eligible for the incentive or bonus. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens noted that the school district would project the individual employees who are eligible for the bonus or incentive and set aside funds specifically for those payments. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wager noted that the amount of the reserve fund would fluctuate as the specific persons who are eligible do retire or additional persons are deemed eligible to retire. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Triou asked for clarification on the benefits for persons who retire at age 55; Mr. Havens provided details. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Lyke noted that the terms of the collective bargaining are predictable and the school district can plan ahead. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Schultz noted that local management and funding of such a fund is a positive factor. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if the Board of Education is limited by law on the number and amounts of reserve funds it can establish or maintain. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wager stated that the reserve funds as reviewed, supra, are the only ones that the Board of Education is allowed to maintain and that maximum amounts of each are established by voter approval or school board resolution, depending on the regulations for each fund. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto noted that the recently approved agreement for a P.I.L.O.T. tax payment with Constellation – Ginna will provide additional revenues of appx. $2 million for the school district. Mrs. Brunner asked which reserves Mr. Wager would recommend for use of those additional revenues. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Tax Certiorari Reserve Fund: This fund allows the Board of Education to set aside funds for settlement of any claims from taxpayers who seek reduction of the taxable assessed valuation of their property. Mr. Wager noted that school districts can only allocate funds to this reserve fund equal to the amount of a refund a specific taxpayer may receive if their claim were approved. It may also allocate a minimum amount to avoid having to allocate funds in the operating budget in a single year, and raising taxes, when an unexpected claim is filed. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto noted that several certiorari proceedings could occur in a single year and asked how forecasting is made for pending claims. Mr. Wager stated that the reserve fund is limited to the maximum exposure to settlements based on claims for same actually filed. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wager noted that this fund operates in a similar manner to the NYS Employee Retirement System (ERS) reserve fund where the amount of the fund changes as new persons are eligible or payments are made. The annual operating budget is the only possible source of income for this reserve fund and the life of the fund can not exceed four (4) years without review of outstanding claims by the Board of Education. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if the Board of Education can establish this reserve fund based on future claims that are expected but not filed. Mr. Wager noted that the school board can not establish this fund unless one or more claims are on file and such a reserve fund is most often used when large claims are received. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Atseff noted that if the agreement with Constellation Ginna had not occurred, this fund would have provided an option for trustees to set aside funds for a future claim. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Long-Range Financial Planning | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wager stated that he has met with Mr. Havens and Mr. Atseff to review the district’s long-range financial plans. He noted that a large component of such a plan is to identify priorities for uses of available revenues (e.g. offset tax levy increases, provide for capital improvements). When those priorities are determined, the Board of Education would establish the amount and term of reserve funds as outlined earlier this evening. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if the term of long-range financial plans is three (3) to five (5) years. Mr. Wager stated that plans that extend for three (3) to five (5) years are most common and allow the Board of Education to determine which reserve funds to create and when to allocate available funds based on projected needs. It also allows the Board of Education to determine if any reserve funds are under funded. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wager suggested that the Board of Education carefully consider the amount available in the unemployment insurance reserve fund based on past experience and possible future uses; he recommended an increase of $150,000 in that reserve fund. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked where the reserve funds are held; Mr. Atseff provided details. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Brunner asked if there are any restraints on possible use of interest earned on a reserve fund. Mr. Wager stated that any interest earned must remain with the individual reserve fund. He added that a benchmark for the Board of Education is to cover expenses from a reserve fund from the interest accrued by the fund. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Schultz asked what reserve funds other than the capital reserve fund have no limit on the amount of earnings on the principal amount. Mr. Wager provided details. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wyse noted the future importance that adequate funding levels are maintained in reserve funds, especially the capital reserve fund. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if the liability insurance reserve fund could be used to pay for the student accident insurance policy. Mr. Wager stated that is an allowable use of an insurance reserve fund; he advised that the Board of Education consider the school district’s past loss experience record prior to such uses. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wager commented noted that current funding levels of the liability insurance reserve fund and capital reserve fund are adequate. |
| He noted that the unemployment insurance reserve fund does not have a specific time frame assigned to it. The capital reserve fund and school bus purchase reserve fund, however, do have fixed terms as approved by voters. He reviewed state regulations on the term of reserve funds. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if the capital reserve funds are lost if they are not expended within the fixed term. Mr. Wager reviewed details for use of the funds. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto noted the possibility of incorrect perceptions if the allocation of funds to the capital reserve fund is too large. Mr. Wager stated that a term of three (3) to five (5) years is the most often used and recommend time period for the reserve funds. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Triou asked what happens to any unspent monies in a reserve fund that expires or is not re-approved by voters. Mr. Havens noted re-allocation of such funds could occur into other reserve funds in place (e.g. liability, capital reserve) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Schultz asked if the decisions by the Board of Education on reserve funds fall into the same category as decisions made on the annual operating budget. Mr. Havens noted that decisions on reserve funds are made in July and August after the end of the fiscal year (June 30th) and the final amount of unspent funds is determined. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Appropriated Fund Balance | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wager noted that the fund balance represents unspent funds at the end of the fiscal year which the Board of Education has planned on using as revenue in the next school year. The exact amount is set when the tax levy is determined in August. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Since the source of this revenue is from unspent monies in a given fiscal year, and is intended to reduce the property tax levy, it is advisable to designate a low amount to prevent the need for a property tax increase to maintain the amount when the unspent funds are less than anticipated. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Brunner asked why the amount that school districts are allowed to maintain as a fund balance is not as open-ended as the amount allowed for towns and counties. Mr. Wager noted that state law designates the amounts; school districts are presently allowed to maintain two per cent (2%) or less of the total budget as a fund balance. Through the use of reserve funds, however, the school board can work effectively with unspent funds and diminish the impact on operating budgets and the property tax levy. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Triou thanked Mr. Wager for his visit and his insight into topics discussed this evening. | |||||||||||||||||||
| III. | RECESS: 7:00 p.m. |
| Trustees and school personnel visited the student exhibits at the science fair at Freewill Elementary School. | |||||||||||||||||||
| IV. RECONVENE: | 7:30 p.m. | |||||||||||||||||
| V. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE | ||||||||||||||||||
| VI. | APPROVAL OF AGENDA & MINUTES (March 10, 2005) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Brunner offered a MOTION to approve the agenda for this evening’s meetingand the minutes of the meeting of March 10, 2005, both as presented. 5 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 Abstentions (Mrs. Diller, Mr. Wyse), 2 Absent (Mr. Griswold Mr. Johnson), Carried. | |||||||||||||||||||
| A. | VII. | |
| PUBLIC COMMENT | ||
| A. | Craig Litt, 1042 Ridge Road, Ontario, offered a comment and a question for the Board of Education. He noted that school taxes doubled last year and are projected to increase, although slightly, for next year. He asked what he as a taxpayer and our students are receiving for their taxes. He asked what factors resulted in the projected increase in the property tax levy for 2005-2006 despite the appx. 30% increase in total assessed value. Mr. Havens was asked to provide a written response to Mr. Litt. | |
| B. | Mr. Litt, supra, asked what efforts the Board of Education is taking to reduce the property tax burden and if it has considered any potential consolidation of services with neighboring school districts or to lease versus purchase of school busses. | |
| VIII. BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS | ||||||||||||||||||
| A. | Mr. Wyse expressed thanks for the condolences to him and his family on the recent demise of his father. | |
| B. | Mrs. Lyke extended compliments to Mr, Armocida and the middle school staff for the recent induction ceremony and event for the National Junior Honor Society. | |
| C. | Mrs. Lyke encouraged trustees to attend the leadership seminar on 21st century learners set for April 2nd at Manchester-Shortsville (Red Jacket) High School by the Four County School Boards Association and Wayne-Finger Lakes Board of Cooperative Educational Services. Guest speakers will include NYS Education Commissioner Richard Mills and federal education leaders. | |
| IX. | BOARD PRESIDENT’S COMMENTS | ||||||||||||||||||
| A. Mr. Triou extended condolences to family of retiree Mary Johns who served our students as a school bus driver for 27 years. | |
| X. | REPORT ON ACTION ITEMS BY THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS | ||||||||||||||||||
| A. | Mr. Havens noted in response to a student question at the prior meeting that a committee of two (2) students, two (2) parents and two (2) administrators is working on revisions to the high school’s dress code. | |
| B. | Mr. Havens noted in response to a student question at the prior meeting on nutritional features of school lunches that a committee of parents, students and staff members is forming to review the topic. | |
| XI. | REPORTS OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS | ||||||||||||||||||
| A. | LEADERSHIP SEMINAR – 21st CENTURY SCHOOLS | |
| Mr. Havens noted the members of the district’s model school’s team will attend the leadership seminar noted by Mrs. Lyke. | |||||||||||||||||||
| B. | INTERIM HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL | |
| Mr. Havens noted that he has named Mr. Spring, assistant superintendent for instruction, to assume additional duties as interim high school principal. It appears that he is enjoying working with staff and students each day. |
| C. | RECOGNITION OF WRESTLERS • SECTION V HONORS | |
| Mr. Havens introduced Mr. Blankenberg, director of athletics and physical education, to review athletic achievements and accomplishments. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Blankenberg introduced the four athletes, senior Grant Gurnett, Scott Prinsen, Brett Klem and Jake Zaborowski, who earned Section V championship rankings for wrestling and reviewed highlights of the wrestling team’ s 13-1 season. He thanked the booster club, the buildings and grounds staff and fans for their support. He noted that coach Scott Freischlag was named as the Class A Wrestling Coach of the year for the second year in a row and recognized the achievements of indoor track team and the girls’ basketball team this year. |
| Mr. Havens stated that he is very proud of these achievements and invited the athletes present to share their plans following graduation. Jake Zaborowski spoke on behalf of the team to than the school board, the booster club, the coaches and their parents for their support and encouragement. The wrestlers presented an autographed team photo to each trustee. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Trustees, school officials and guests present offered a round of applause for these student achievements. |
| D. | UPDATE ON EAGLE VENTURES PROGRAM | |
| Mr. Havens introduced Mrs. Kim Sherwin and Mrs. Jody Mutschler to present a review of the Eagle Ventures’ program for the Board of Education. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Sherwin and Mrs. Mutschler narrated a PowerPoint presentation that outlined the background, successes and long- and short-term goals of the program to assist students who are not successful in a traditional educational setting and to break the cycle of failure for them. Staff members who assist in the program were present and were introduced. |
| They also read from a letter they sent to TV personality Ophrah Winfrey seeking financial support for a new home base for the program when it lost use of the manor house at the nuclear power plant campus due to homeland security reasons. | |||||||||||||||||||
| In the statistics displayed, they noted the reduced drop-out rate (from 80% to 7%), suspension rate (from 100% to 10%) and discipline referrals (from 100% to 15%) and increased graduation rate (from 20% to 86 %) among students in grades 7 to 12. They also noted an increase in the success of students in vocational training, in average daily attendance and participation in extra-curricular activities and in parental participation. | |||||||||||||||||||
| The program has received the Harvard-Ratcliffe Award for Educational Innovation (June, 2001), the first for a special education program, and is a model for schools and agencies across the state to meet the special educational needs of students. | |||||||||||||||||||
| They reviewed the challenges faced by the program in obtaining a new “home base” and the importance of a stable and supportive environment for students. After the move from the manor house to the Gates Homestead, both on the nuclear power plant property in Ontario, the program was re-located in December, 2004 to its present setting in several, school-based sites when the Gates Homestead structure failed to meet state and local codes for occupancy. The temporary and scattered locations do not provide the continuity and security of a “home base” for the thirty (30) students they serve. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Using the anonymous example of a student who started in the program in 2000, they showed the impact that the proper intervention and support can have for students who were not otherwise successful due to their disabilities. They also introduced senior Ashley Beckwith who presented a personal testimonial on the importance and value of the program in helping her make positive choices, build her self-confidence, complete high school and pursue a career in nursing. | |||||||||||||||||||
| The presentation also included a comparison of the cost to the school district to provide the educational programs for the students in the Eagle Ventures venue and placements in special programs at locations outside of the school district. | |||||||||||||||||||
| The retail storefront feature of the program will begin as soon as state approval is obtained for the leased space at 2000 Ridge Road in Ontario. It will provide a working classroom for the students to learn marketing and merchandising skills and an outlet for the products they create and produce. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Over the long-term, the teachers noted that they will continue to work on relations with Constellation Energy and to seek legislative or other grant funding to renovate the Gates Homestead or provide an alternate program location. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wyse stated that he felt the letter to Oprah Winfrey was a fantastic idea and extended compliments to the staff members, and to their student spokesperson, for their excellent presentation about the Eagle Ventures’ program. |
| Mr. Havens noted continuing efforts with Constellation Energy, new owner of the power plant, and his meeting with the plant manager, about a possible long-term lease of the Gates’ Homestead and grant funding possibilities by Constellation Energy to cover costs to bring the Gates’ Homestead into compliance for use by staff and students. He noted that the school architect projects a cost of $265,000 to bring the homestead into compliance for student use. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Lyke asked if the vacant barn at the homestead was included in the proposed lease; Mr. Havens stated it was. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Triou asked if Mr. Havens had explored the potential of power plant employees participating in repairs and renovations at the Gates’ Homestead. Mr. Havens noted that the plant mangier preferred not to make any promise she could not deliver. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wyse stated that the Gates’ Homestead may qualify for some state grants for historic preservation and suggested that Mr. Havens seek support from town officials for such funding. Mr. Havens stated that he would raise the topic at the joint school and town board meeting on April 4th. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens extended thanks to Miss Beckwith, Mrs. Sherwin, Mrs. Mutschler and the entire Eagle Ventures’ staff for their efforts. He stated that the school district is fortunate to have them working with our students. | |||||||||||||||||||
| E. | ACADEMIC REPORT • SECOND QUARTER • 2004-2005 SCHOOL YEAR | |
| Mr. Havens introduced Mr. Laurence Spring, assistant superintendent for instruction, to present the academic report for the second quarter of the 2004-2005 school year. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Spring distributed a copy of the report for the second quarter (20 weeks) and noted that math and literacy continue as the major focus for all children. (copy filed in clerk’s agenda file) | |||||||||||||||||||
| He shared graphic illustrations of achievement among elementary, middle and high school students in this year and last year. He noted that the full day kindergarten program continues to exceed expectations and the higher standard for math and student literacy is in place in the fourth grade. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Spring also noted the excellence in science programs, including the science fair trustees visited earlier this evening, and the sustained record of achievement at regional and state levels by the Science Olympiad team. The passing rate in language arts in grade eight reflects an increase of 17 points. Revised curricula for social studies to include more timely topics and steady improvement in math scores are also evident at the middle school. Efforts continue to determine to examine and define student success and to incorporate literacy in all subjects. | |||||||||||||||||||
| At the high school, student achievement on Regents’ exams is monitored and refinements are made as needed. Students who need additional support participate in the “Wings of Success” program after school hours and the number of students who qualify for academic intervention services is examined. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wyse extended compliments to all persons who assisted in the 18 point increase on the language arts test results in grade eight. He asked what the overall goal or target is for that exam. Mr. Spring stated that the overall goal is to achieve a passing rate of 90% by all students. | |||||||||||||||||||
| F. | UPDATE ON GOALS • ELEMENTARY LEVELS • 2004-2005 SCHOOL YEAR | |
| Mr. Havens asked Mr. Spring to provide an update on the goals for student achievement in grades K to 5 for the Board of Education. | ||
| Mr. Spring introduced Mr. Siracuse and Mrs. Cox, building principals, Mrs. Welch and Mrs. Stein, fourth grade teachers, at Ontario Elementary School and Freewill Elementary School, respectively, Mrs. Wolcott, reading coordinator, and Mr. Adamo, teacher on special assignment as language arts coach, who each narrated portions of a PowerPoint presentation on test analysis, curriculum alignment, staff training and new strategies used to build confidence among students as part of the goal to achieve a 90% passing rate on the fourth grade state exam in language arts and math. | ||
| The result was a 9 point shift, to 88%, on the language arts exam which moved local student achievement from the lower third to the top three (3) of schools in Monroe County on the test results. They noted that the students not only achieved success on the state exam, the also developed confidence as readers and writers and are better prepared for the remainder of their school career. | ||
| Mrs. Brunner noted that several of her children had both Mr. and Mrs. Adamo as teachers and she knew that when Mr. Havens proposed Mr. Adamo’s designation as a language arts coach that it was a positive step. She thanked all of the staff members involved for their support and extended best wishes and regrets that he is retiring this year. | |||||||||||||||||||
| As a token of their efforts to reach this achievement, Mr. Havens presented copies of the language arts achievement charts to trustees and to each of the staff members present (copy filed in clerk’s agenda file, this meeting) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Trustees, school officials and guests present offered a round of applause to the staff for their efforts and student achievements. | |||||||||||||||||||
| G. | CONSIDER ADOPTION OF PROPOSED BUDGET • 2005-2006 SCHOOL YEAR | |
| Mr. Havens presented the proposed budget for the 2005-2006 school year for review and consideration by the Board of Education. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if there were any changes or revisions since the prior meeting; Mr. Havens stated there are none. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Brunner offered a MOTION to adopt the proposed budget for the 2005-2006 school year in a total amount of $36,280,700 as presented and recommended by the superintendent of schools. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wyse asked of the flexibility of funding positions remains as discussed at a prior meeting. Mr. Havens stated it does. | |||||||||||||||||||
| On the question, the vote was 7 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 Absent (Mr. Griswold, Mr. Johnson), Carried. | |||||||||||||||||||
| H. | STUDENT QUESTIONS | |
| (1) | Grant Gurnett, 6046 Trillium Trail, Ontario, noted his recent shadowing experience with primary-aged children and the introduction of keyboarding and word processing skills at that young age. | ||
| (2) | Tiffany Marianetti, 1830 Kenyon Road, Ontario, noted the shortage of student parking spaces at the high school and presented a copy of a plan she had developed to address these concerns. Mr. Havens thanked her for her efforts and invited her to stop at his office to discuss it in more detail. (copy filed in clerk’s agenda file, this meeting) | ||
| XII. | RECESS: 9:20 p.m. |
| XIII. RECONVENE: | 9:32 p.m. | |||||||||||||||||
| XIV. | ITEMS FOR BOARD OF EDUCATION ACTION | |||||||||||||||||||
| A. AMEND ANNUAL DESIGNATION | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens presented the following personnel changes for review and consideration by the Board of Education: | |||||||||||||||||||
| Extra-Duty Position | |||||||||||||||||||
| Amend Appointment of Authorized Signatory - • Extra-Classroom Activities Fund • 2004-2005 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Laurence T. Spring, Interim High School Principal effective March 11, 2005 (replaces Lory Morrin, on administrative leave) | |||||||||||||||||||
| B. ANNUAL INDEPENDENT AUDIT • EXTRA-CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES FUND – FY 6/30/04 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens presented the report and examination by the independent auditor of the extra-classroom activities funds for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2004, for review and consideration by the Board of Education. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Wyse offered a MOTION, seconded by Mrs. Lyke, to adopt a RESOLUTION to accept the report on accounts & financial statements of the extra classroom activity accounts for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2004, TO WIT: | |
| On the question, the RESOLUTION was adopted by a vote of 7 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 Absent (Mr. Griswold, Mr. Johnson). |
| Mr. Havens noted plans to shift the duties of extra-classroom activities treasurer for the high school to the district treasurer’s office as of July 1st will address many of the items noted in the audit report. He stated that that a similar shift of the middle school’s extra-classroom treasurer position this past year is working well. | ||
| Mr. Triou asked Mr. Wager how he feels the school district is doing with regard to the audit of the extra-classroom activities funds. Mr. Wager stated that the audit by his firm treats the extra-classroom funds in a very serious manner due to the substantial amount of cash involved and participation by several parties – students, faculty advisors and staff. He noted that many of the school districts which his firm audits have numerous items cited in their audits and our reports are at the mid-point. | ||
| He added that he has witnessed the serious approach that this Board of Education takes to the annual audit reports of the extra-classroom activities funds and noted that each audit will discover items for review or attention. | ||
| Mrs. Lyke expressed her belief that the extra-classroom funds provide a valuable learning experience and renewed her support for training programs for them. Mr. Wager concurred that the participation by students does provide a great opportunity for them to learn about fund-raising, budgeting, payment of sales tax and maintaining proper reports and records. | ||
| Mrs. Brunner and Mrs. Lyke asked what training is provided for the students and faculty advisors who participate in the extra-classroom activity funds. Mr. Havens noted that Mr. Atseff and Mrs. Stramonine, district treasurer, conduct annual training for students who serve as activity treasurers and for faculty advisors for extra-classroom activities. With Mrs. Stramonine named as central treasurer, and co-signatory, on both middle and high school extra-classroom funds next year, the training and monitoring will expand and increase. | ||
| Mrs. Brunner asked if training is provided for students or faculty who are named to replace persons designated for a specific activity during a given school year. Mr. Atseff stated it is. | ||
| Mrs. Brunner noted that these issues have existed in each of her eleven (11) years as a school trustee and she believes the steps underway are positive and appropriate. | ||
| Mrs. Lyke noted the unique opportunities to provide learning experiences for our students. | ||
| Mrs. Brunner asked if there is any link to learning experiences in the model school’s program. Mr. Havens noted that the standards and expectations for extra-curricular activities have increased and some students and faculty advisors have declined to continue to participate. | ||
| XV. | POLICY COMMITTEE ITEMS |
| In the absence of Mr. Johnson, policy committee chairperson, policy committee items were postponed until the April 27th business meting. | |
| XVI. | ADDITIONAL PUBLIC COMMENT |
| A., Susan Brown, 7518 Knickerbocker Road, Ontario, asked if there is any potential to contain costs for the Eagle Ventures program site by having students handle efforts such as carpentry. | |
| B. Mrs. Brown, supra, expressed her dismay that the class photo for her child’s class that was taken last October had just arrived. She encouraged school officials who chose the vendor for school photos to consider other options for lower cost and more prompt delivery and offered to serve on a committee for same. | |
| C. Mrs. Brown, supra, noted the success of the fourth grade language arts teacher coach, as described earlier this evening, and expressed support to continue it next year. | |
| D. Mrs. Brown, supra, asked if the Board of Education knows the amount of funds raised by the high school booster clubs, the use of those funds and if proper taxation reporting requirements are met. | |
| E. Mrs. Brown, supra, invited trustees and school officials to attend the “Family Arts Day” on Saturday, April 2nd from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Ontario Primary School. The event will include a variety of artists and performers and is sponsored by the Ontario Primary-Ontario Elementary PTA . |
| XVII. ADDITIONAL BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS | |
| A. | Mr. Wyse extended compliments to Mr. Spring for the model school’s event he hosted last week. | |
| B. | Mrs. Brunner noted that the two quilts on display during the Eagle Ventures presentation earlier this evening reflected a substantial amount of work by Ashley Beckwith, the student speaker during the presentation, and extended compliments to her for her efforts. | |
| C. | Mrs. Lyke asked if sewing machines are available in the Eagle Ventures’ program; the answer was yes. | |
| D. | Mr. Robusto noted the Board of Education does not always have a first-hand view of the results of budget and policy decisions it makes and felt that the reports this evening on the success of the Eagle Ventures program and the fourth grade language arts coach provided two excellent examples. He added that his family had direct experience with the “Baby Think It Over” activity provided for high school students this past weekend with the presence of the baby simulator in their home. He noted that these are but a few examples of the many excellent programs provided by our staff for our children. Mr. Havens and Mr. Spring noted the success of the parenting programs that are underway as part of the model school’s program. | |
| XVII. | EXECUTIVE SESSION (Personnel) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto offered a MOTION to adjourn the meeting,at 9:40 p.m., for an executive session on personnel matters pertaining to specific persons. 7 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 Absent (Mr. Griswold, Mr. Johnson), Carried. | |||||||||||||||||||
| XVIII. RECONVENE: | 10:15 p.m. | ||||||||||||||||||
| XIX. | ADJOURNMENT | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto offered a MOTION to adjourn the meeting at 10:16 p.m. 7 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 Absent (Mr. Griswold, Mr. Johnson), Carried. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Respectfully submitted, | |||||||||||||||||||
| JAMES E. SWITZER | |||||||||||||||||||
| School District Clerk | |||||||||||||||||||
| APPROVAL OF MINUTES | |||||||||||||||||||
| The foregoing minutes of the Board of | |||||||||||||||||||
| Education were submitted for review | |||||||||||||||||||
| & (approved as presented)(corrected | |||||||||||||||||||
| as noted) at the meeting of | |||||||||||||||||||
| April 27, 2005 | |||||||||||||||||||
| --------------------------- | |||||||||||||||||||
| School District Clerk | |||||||||||||||||||
| JES/jes:wp | |||||||||||||||||||
| Att. 1(b) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| WAYNE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Ontario Center, New York 14520 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES | UNOFFICIAL UNTIL APPROVED | |||||||||||||||||||
| DATE: Monday, April 4, 2005 | TIME: 7:00 p.m. | |||||||||||||||||||
| TYPE: Joint Meeting of the Board of Education | PLACE: Casey Park Recreation Building | |||||||||||||||||||
| & the Walworth & Ontario Town Boards | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Board of Education:Trustees Brunner, Griswold, Johnson, Lyke, Robusto, Schultz Triou; District Clerk Switzer; Administrators Havens & Atseff; Absent: Trustees Diller & Wyse | |||||||||||||||||||
| Ontario Town Board: Joseph Molino (supervisor), Mark Brewer, Donald Shears, Ronald Fillmore; Cathy Herzog, town clerk, William Riddel, director of parks & recreation |
| Walworth Town Board: Frank Guelli (supervisor), Patricia Marini, Thomas Yale | |||||||||||||||||||
| Guests: Visitor’s Roster filed in clerk’s agenda file, this meeting | |||||||||||||||||||
| I. | CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m. by John D. Triou, School Board President | ||||||||||||||||||
| II. | EXECUTIVE SESSION (Personnel) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mrs. Brunner offered a MOTION to adjourn the meeting,at 7:01 p.m., for an executive session on personnel matters pertaining to specific persons. 6 Ayes, 0 Nays, 3 Absent (Mrs. Diller, Mr. Schultz, Mr. Wyse), Carried. | |||||||||||||||||||
| (Mr. Schultz entered the meeting at 7:03 p.m.) | |||||||||||||||||||
| III. | RECONVENE: | 7:20 p.m. | |||||||||||||||||
| IV. | JOINT SESSION WITH WALWORTH & ONTARIO TOWN BOARDS – 7:30 p.m. | ||||||||||||||||||
| V. | ITEMS FROM THE BOARD OF EDUCATION | ||||||||||||||||||
| A. UPDATE ON THE 2002 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens statedthat approximately 50% of the 2002 Capital Improvement Project is completed and an update on the project will appear in the school district’s newsletter. Phase II of the overall project is slated for the 2005 summer recess. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens noted that the new science, art and technology classrooms are nearly 75% completed and announced that public tours of the new spaces are scheduled for the first Wednesday in May from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. | |||||||||||||||||||
| He stated that the overall capital project is under-budget and has progressed from six- to three-weeks behind schedule with zero weeks behind schedule expected by the end of June, 2005. | |||||||||||||||||||
| B. UPDATE ON PROPOSED 2005-2006 SCHOOL BUDGET | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens noted that the proposed 2005-2006 school budget in the amount of $36,280,700 was adopted by the Board of Education on March 24th. The proposed budget represents an increase of .93% in the property tax levy, approx. 19 cents per thousand of taxable assessed value. | |||||||||||||||||||
| He added that the proposed budget does not reflect any reductions in programs or services and includes some new programs and services. The proposed tax increase is still among the lowest among school districts in Wayne County. He noted that the Board of Education is thankful that the negotiations for the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (P.I.L.O.T.) agreement for the revised value of the Constellation Ginna Nuclear Power Plant were completed successfully. | |||||||||||||||||||
| The annual school election is set for Tuesday, May 17, 2005 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the lobby of the new gymnasium at the high school. Three (3) seats on the Board of Education will appear on the ballot along with a proposal to re-establish the school bus purchase fund. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Jason Ruffell, 1953 Kenyon Road, Ontario, asked what the reasoning is for the proposed full-time public relations position which he read about in the news media and why the school district could not absorb those duties into an existing position. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens stated that the Board of Education wishes to increase communications with the community, with senior citizens, and increase the amount of information provided to residents. He added that many area districts of our size have such a position and our district did have one in the past. The duties of the position are now filled largely by his administrative assistant; the new position would eliminate the extra weekday and weekend hours of that person. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Ruffell asked if the proposed position is proposed for full-time; Mr. Havens stated that it was. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Robert Allen, 1132 Ridge Road, Ontario, stated that he is a retired carpenter and asked if the school district planned to participate in the “responsible bidder program” of the County of Monroe Industrial Development Agency (COMIDA) for local union labor contracts which weeds out contractors who do not do quality work. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens noted that school districts are bound by state law to comply with the WICKS law in awarding contracts for public works and that union wages are paid. He invited Mr. Allen to review his ideas with himself and Mr. Atseff, assistant superintendent for business, after the meeting. Mr. Allen asked if the school district would have interest in information about the program if he obtained same from the COMIDA office; the response was yes. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Scott Griswold, 6090 Trillium Trail, Ontario, spoke as a resident to ask a question he has heard from many other residents about when completion of the athletic fields would occur and which fields athletes can and can not use as part of the 2002 Capital Improvement Project. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens noted that the asphalt surface of the new all weather track was applied last fall and students on the track team have started the spring 2005 season using the track for practice. The rubberized surface of the new track is scheduled for application in Phase II in the summer of 2005 and requires a temperature of 70-degrees for ten (10) days. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Grass seed was applied to the new varsity field last fall and will require two (2) growing seasons before the root system is well-enough established to allow use. Current members of the sophomore class will have the opportunity to use the new varsity field in their senior year. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Ralph Marianetti, 1820 Kenyon Road, Ontario, asked about use of the soccer fields. Mr. Havens stated that the soccer fields are now available for use and efforts are underway to determine needs for additional practice fields with a portion of former practice fields absorbed by construction of the new varsity field. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Debra Furguson-Leaty, 6064 Independence Way, Ontario, asked if the Board of Education would present a proposal for a swimming pool again. Mr. Havens noted that district voters have not approved three (3) prior proposals and the school district would not present it again. They would consider a proposal from residents if such was made. | |||||||||||||||||||
| VI. | ONTARIO TOWN BOARD | |
| A. | UPDATE ON CONSTRUCTION OF ADDITIONAL LIBRARY SPACE | ||
| Mr. Shears noted that completion of a 3,000 sq. ft. addition to the Ontario Town Hall is slated for the end of April and will allow the public library to expand. Announcements of the grand opening will appear in local news media. The effort to provide new library space in the future will continue and the new space now near completion could provide space for town courts. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens asked if the space will allow for pre-school programs; Mr. Shears noted that such programs now exist and would continue. | ||||||||||||||||||
| B. | UPDATE ON COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | ||
| Mr. Shears stated that nearly twenty (20) resident volunteers worked for over fourteen (14) months on development of an updated comprehensive plan for future planning and development of the community. The citizens’ group presented their final recommendations to the Ontario Town Board in January it contains 42 goals and 123 recommendations. | ||||||||||||||||||
| As required by law, the Ontario Town Board conducted a public hearing on the proposed plan on March 28th. They heard comments from several of the more the fifty (50) persons in attendance. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Tom McCune, former planning board member and the chairperson of the comprehensive plan committee, narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the highlights of the plan which is now under review by the Ontario Town Board. Mr. Shears displayed maps which outlined land use and conservation aspects of the proposed plan. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Shears stated that the next phase of the comprehensive plan is to review the revisions or additions to the zoning or subdivision regulations of the Town of Ontario necessary to implement the goals of the comprehensive plan. | ||||||||||||||||||
| C. UPDATE ON FARMLAND PROTECTION GRANT FUNDS | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Shears noted that the Town of Ontario has recently received notification that its application for farmland protection funds from the State of New York was approved for 302 acres of orchard and farmland along Lake Road presently owned by Johnson and Mary Elizabeth Albright. | ||||||||||||||||||
| He added that the state funds cover 75% of the costs and that the Ontario Town Board is now pursuing federal funding to provide the remaining 25% of the costs. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto asked if the state funds are intended to purchase development rights to the property; Mr. Shears state that was correct. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens stated that as a resident of the Town of Ontario he is pleased with the results of the comprehensive plan committee’s work and extended personal compliments to committee members for their diligent work. He is also pleased that town officials are considering future development of the community as part of this effort. | ||||||||||||||||||
| VII. WALWORTH TOWN BOARD | |||||||||||||||||||
| A. MASTER PLAN REVISED | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Guelli stated that the Walworth Town Board adopted revisions to the town’s master plan in the fall of 2004. |
| . | |||||||||||||||||||
| B. UPDATE ON FARMLAND PROTECTION GRANT FUNDS | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Guelli noted that the Town of Walworth also received approval of its application for farmland protection funds from the State of New York. The application was approved to purchase development rights for farmland parcels presently owned by Dan Keyes and by Emil Weber. | |||||||||||||||||||
| He added that Walworth Town officials are also working with the Genesee Land Trust to manage the land. | |||||||||||||||||||
| C. AVAILABILITY OF SCHOOL FACILITIES FOR TOWN USES | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Guelli stated that Town of Walworth no longer has use of many facilities in the Gananda Central School District for parks and recreation programs and there is concern about the loss of more space at Freewill Elementary School due to restrictions during the 2002 Capital Improvement Project. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens noted that some of the improvements planned during Phase II of the 2002 Capital Improvement Project during the summer of 2005 will result in restrictions on use of varied space in district facilities, including re-locating the summer school program to Williamson Central School District for the second year. The planned roof replacement at Freewill Elementary School will require movement of some items from classroom areas to gymnasiums for temporary storage. He invited Walworth officials to contact him to discuss specific concerns. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| VIII. DISCUSSION ITEMS | |||||||||||||||||||
| Discussion among school and town officials followed and is generally summarized below: | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens noted that the Board of Education has approved revised requirements for students to receive a high school diploma. The new requirements will insure that graduates of Wayne Central School District are prepared for careers and citizenship in the 21st century. | |||||||||||||||||||
| He outlined the new requirements for community service (20 hours in grades 9 to 12), career exploration (40 hour internship), technology (competency with a computer application), revised passing grade (from 55% to 65%) on Regents exams, a 10-week parenting course, and finance and consumer skills. He noted that additional information will appear in school district publications. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Brewer noted the recent news media quote by Mr. Havens that he hoped residents would be pleased that the proposed tax levy increase for the 2005-2006 school budget is less than one percent (1%). He asked what the additional $115 million in taxable assessed valuation included in the P.I.L.O.T. agreement reached with Constellation Ginna means in terms of the proposed school tax levy. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens stated that the nuclear power plant will provide appx. 20% of the tax revenue for the school district under the P.I.L.O.T. agreement reached with Constellation Ginna. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Brewer asked what the proposed tax levy increase would equal if the additional taxable assessed valuation were not available. Mr. Havens reviewed the estimates if the P.I.L.O.T. agreement reached with Constellation Ginna were not in place. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Brewer relayed comments he has received from constituents who felt that the P.I.L.O.T. agreement reached with Constellation Ginna should have resulted in a stable or reduce property tax levy for the school budget. He added that they also expressed disagreement with the statement that the proposed levy of less than one per cent (1%) should make them happy. He noted that he has suggested that those constituents who were displeased make an appointment with school officials to review their concerns. Mr. Havens stated that he encourages persons with questions to call and meet with him; he noted that school board meetings and the public hearing on the proposed budget generally draw a small response. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Brewer asked what factors were responsible for the projected increase in the property tax levy. Mr. Havens noted examples of increased pension costs ($470,000) and increased health care costs ($350,000) and efforts to restore programs and services that were removed in prior years. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Brewer noted that he would prefer to have these joint meetings of town and school officials resultin ideas for and announcements of potential cost savings for our mutual constituents (e.g. supplies, fuel costs, consolidate services) rather than information sharing that he feels has predominated the meetings during his term on the town board. He believes that the information sharing is best accomplished through review of meeting minutes and of news media accounts of town and school board actions, which he does, and that the component boards could spend their time more productively for their constituents dealing with the numerous issues they otherwise face and attending these joint meetings on a less frequent basis. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Havens stated that he concurs that the opportunity for savings and consolidation does exist. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Schultz noted that there are consultants who seek options for savings or consolidations in exchange for finder’s fees. He noted that businesses in the private sector hire such consultants on a regular basis. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Robusto noted the school and town officials do work cooperatively on salting and sanding of school parking lots and driveways. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Molino noted that there are areas where joint efforts are practical or convenient and no doubt taxpayers would appreciate efforts to achieve cost savings. He added that there are some legal constraints on joint efforts that town and school officials would need to consider. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Griswold stated that he would support any efforts to reduce costs for school or town taxpayers but views the quarterly joint meetings of town and school boards more as sessions for sharing of information than as working meetings. He added that he feels that the mission of the town boards and the school board may not have the synergy to initiate cost saving opportunities since the former are more hands-on than the policy setting role of the latter. | |||||||||||||||||||
| Mr. Triou noted that the joint negotiations that resulted in the P.I.L.O.T. agreement reached with Constellation Ginna are a good example of the rapport developed as a result of the joint meetings of town and school boards and officials. | |||||||||||||||||||
| IX. | NEXT MEETING | |||||||||||||||||||
| It was noted that the Walworth Town Board is due to host the next joint meeting. Mr. Guelli will coordinate details for a meeting in October, 2005. |
| X. | ADJOURNMENT: | 8:04 p.m. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Respectfully submitted, | |||||||||||||||||||
| JAMES E. SWITZER | |||||||||||||||||||
| School District Clerk | |||||||||||||||||||
| APPROVAL OF MINUTES | |||||||||||||||||||
| The foregoing minutes of the Board of | |||||||||||||||||||
| Education were submitted for review | |||||||||||||||||||
| & (approved as presented)(corrected | |||||||||||||||||||
| as noted) at the meeting of | |||||||||||||||||||
| April 27, 2005 | |||||||||||||||||||
| --------------------------- | |||||||||||||||||||
| School District Clerk | |||||||||||||||||||
| JES/jes:wp | |||||||||||||||||||
| Att. 2 | |
| WAYNE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | |||
| ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF | |
| Resignations: None | |
| INSTRUCTIONAL STAFF |
| Tenure Recommendation: None | |
| Resignations: | |
| Diana Page, Science Teacher, assigned to the James A. Beneway High School, effective | |
| June 30, 2005. For personal reasons. | |
| Laura Schoenberger, Special Education Teacher, assigned to the Thomas C. Armstrong Middle School, effective June 30, 2005. For personal reasons. | |
| Leave of Absence: | |
| Katie Breedy, Art Teacher, assigned to the James A. Beneway High School, a combination paid and unpaid FMLA disability leave effective March 29, 2005 through June 30, 2005. For the purpose of child rearing. | |
| Appointments: | |
| Monica Hiller, English Teacher (.6 FTE), assigned to the James A. Beneway High School, a two month temporary appointment effective April 22, 2005 through June 30, 2005 at $35,500 pro-rated. Temporary replacement for Rebecca Postell (childrearing LOA). | |
| Joanne Hurley, Elementary Education (6th Grade Reading) Teacher, assigned to the Thomas C. Armstrong Middle School, a three month temporary appointment anticipated March 2, 2005 through June 30, 2005 at $35,500 pro-rated. Temporary replacement for Deborah Bussard (surgery). | |
| Justin Marino, Social Studies Teacher, assigned to the Beneway High School, a three and one half month temporary appointment effective March 14, 2005 through June 30, 2005 at $34,250 pro-rated. Temporary replacement for Jennifer Klehr (childrearing LOA). | |
| Krista Matuszek, Art Teacher, assigned to the James Beneway High School, a three month temporary appointment anticipated March 30, 2005 through June 14, 2005 at $34,250 pro-rated. Temporary replacement for Katie Breedy (childrearing LOA). | |
| Michelle Pagani, Science Teacher, assigned to the James Beneway High School, a four month temporary appointment effective February 28, 2005 through June 30, 2005 at $35,500 pro-rated. Temporary replacement for Jeffrey Foti (resignation). | |
| Joyce Renzo, Spanish Teacher, assigned to the James Beneway High School, a three month temporary appointment effective March 7, 2005 through June 30, 2005 at $34,250 pro-rated. Temporary replacement for Jane DelGudico (childrearing LOA). | |
| Andrea Warner, Reading Teacher, assigned to the Thomas C. Armstrong Middle School, a | |
| two month temporary appointment anticipated March 4, 2005 through May 2, 2005 at $35,500 pro-rated. Temporary replacement for Amy Tobin (childrearing LOA). | |
| Coaching Appointments: | |
Name
|
Team
|
Step
|
WCS Years
|
Level
|
Incentive
|
Salary
|
| Tracey Wiesmore | Girls Modified Track | 1
|
1
|
F
|
No
|
$2,169
|
Name
|
Team
|
Stipend
|
| Bill Thomson | B. Varsity Basketball | $347.00 |
| John Cotsonas | B. JV Basketball | $139.00 |
| Bill Jordan | G. Varsity Basketball | $347.00 |
| Cheryl Hackett | G. Freshman Basketball | $139.00 |
| Scott Freischlag | Varsity Wrestling | $347.00 |
| Jay Marino | Varsity Alpine Skiing | $347.00 |
| Todd Brockhuizen | Varsity Bowling | $347.00 |
| Ted Hargarther | Asst. Varsity Wrestling | $139.00 |
| Chris Moore | JV Wrestling Coach | 4139.00 |
Name
|
Team
|
Stipend
|
| Scott Freischlag | Varsity Wrestling | $347.00 |
| Ted Hargarther | Asst. Varsity Wrestling | $139.00 |
Name
|
Team
|
Stipend
|
| Scott Freischlag | Varsity Wrestling | $139.00 |
| Ted Hargarther | Asst. Varsity Wrestling | $139.00 |
| Name | Activity | Bldg.
|
Rate
|
||
| Tamina Scheuer (lead) | KICKS Club | FE
|
$183.00
|
||
| Martha Hanley | KICKS Club | FE
|
$183.00
|
Re:
CSEA Contract
I am pleased to announce that we have a tentative contract with our CSEA group. This is 2 1/2 months before the old contract expires. John Triou, Mark Wyse, Frank Robusto, Mark Callahan, Greg Atseff and myself all strongly recommend the contract to you. I am very pleased with both teams. We worked together in a way that the school district and the Union have never done before. Together we were able to create a contract we are all proud of. Major Components of the CSEA Contract are listed below
1.
Five year contract 2005-06 through 2010-11
2.
$.65 increase each year for most employees. 3.5% increase for some higher paid employees.
3.
Change health care to Blue Point II $20 (savings of about 10%)
4.
Current employees will contribute towards health care phased in to 10%
5.
New employee contribution to health care to be 20%
6.
Newly retired employees with 20 years service receive increased health benefit payments to 50% for 10 years
7.
Employees required to work on snow days earn 1hour comp time.
We will be discussing the contract during the Superintendent’s report and voting on it under the consent agenda. We could discuss this in executive session if you desire.. It seems pretty straight forward so I think it would be fine to do it in regular session. If however anyone wishes to ask questions about it that are “executive session” let John or I know and we will schedule a 7:00 executive session.
CONFIDENTIAL
1
|
student @
|
$431.01
|
= | $431.01
|
| 6 | Students @ | $104.42 | = | $626.52 |
Vendor
|
Bid Total
|
Discount
|
|
1.
|
Brulin Corp.
|
$2,022.00
|
|
Corr Distributors, Inc..
33 Chandler Street Buffalo, NY 14207 |
$3,189.43
|
||
2.
|
Economy Paper
1175 E. Main Street PO Box 90420 Rochester, NY 14609 |
$5,285.00
|
1%
|
3.
|
Gabriel First Corp.
233 West Commercial St. East Rochester, NY 14445 |
$6,633.75
|
|
4.
|
Hillyard Chemical Co
159 Lagrange Ave. Rochester, NY 14613-1511 |
$2,645.96
|
1%
|
5.
|
L.J.C. Distributors
1626 Cedar Ave. Scranton, PA 18505 |
$2666.00
|
|
Total
|
$22,442.14
|
The superintendent of schools will develop regulations for review by the Board of Education to implement this policy.
It is the policy of the Board of Education to ensure that homeless children and youth are provided with equal access to the educational programs of the school district, have an opportunity to meet the same challenging State of New York and local academic standards, are not segregated on the basis of their homeless status and to establish safeguards that protect them from discrimination on the basis of their homelessness.
The term "homeless children and youths" means individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence due to economic hardship.
The term includes children and youths who:
· are temporarily sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason
· are living in motels, hotels, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations
· are living in emergency shelters
· are abandoned in hospitals or are awaiting foster care placement
· have a nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings
· are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings
· runaway children or children who are abandoned
Youth not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian may be considered homeless if they meet the above definition.
Homeless status is determined in cooperation with parents or, in the case of unaccompanied youth, the local educational agency liaison.
Homeless status may be documented through a variety of forms maintained by the school district (e.g. Hopeworks Education Program Referral Form) and/or through direct contact with district staff members.
The superintendent of schools will develop regulations for review by the Board of Education to implement the policy for placement of homeless children and youth.
POLICY ADOPTED: April …, 2005
POLICY HANDBOOK • WAYNE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
School Selection
In determining the best interests of the child or youth to the extent feasible the child or youth will be kept in the school of origin for the duration of homelessness except when doing so is contrary to the wishes of the child's or youth's parent or guardian,
In the case of unaccompanied youth, the local educational agency liaison or designee will assist in placement or enrollment decisions considering the requests of such unaccompanied youth.
The school of origin means the school that the child or youth attended when permanently housed or the school in which the child or youth was last enrolled.
The choice regarding placement shall be made regardless of whether the child or youth lives with the homeless parents or guardian or has been temporarily placed elsewhere.
The school selected shall immediately enroll the child/youth, even if the child or youth lacks records normally required for enrollment. Records will immediately be requested from the previous school.
The terms "enroll" and "enrollment" are defined to mean attending school and participating fully in school activities.
Residency
A homeless child or youth is a resident if the child is personally present somewhere within the district with a purpose to remain but not necessarily to remain permanently.
The child or youth shall be considered a resident when living with a parent, guardian, or person in loco parentis not solely for school purposes or for participation in extra curricular activities.
Homeless students who do not live with their parents or guardians may enroll themselves in school.
The address listed on the enrollment forms becomes proof of residency.
Regulation Approved: April …, 2005
POLICY HANDBOOK • WAYNE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
For purposes of school placement, any parent, guardian or person “in loco parentis” who has legal or physical custody of a homeless child or youth shall enroll that child or youth directly in a school within the Wayne Central School District.
Once a child or youth is enrolled in and attending a school, the Guardian Responsibilities form provided by the school district must be completed within a reasonable period of time for those children or youth who are not accompanied by a parent or guardian or person “in loco parentis”
Each homeless child or youth shall be provided services comparable to services offered to other students in the school building selected, examples of which follow.
· Preschool programs
· Transportation services
· Educational services for which the child or youth meets eligibility criteria such as ESL or special education programs
· Programs for "At Risk" students
· Programs for gifted and talented students
· School nutrition programs
· Title I services
· All After School programs
At the request of the parent, or in the case of an unaccompanied youth, the local agency liaison or designee, transportation will be provided for homeless children for the duration of the school year to the school of origin, school of attendance area or school requested,
Once permanent housing is found, the family has a choice to stay in the school they are attending, school of origin or attend the school where they have found housing. They will seek permission from the superintendent of schools for transportation.
Permanent housing is defined as any signed lease or long-term approved living situation. Self-paying day to day in a motel is not considered permanent housing.
In the case where the school district of origin and current residence are different local education agencies, the two school districts will agree on a method for transportation and share costs.
Regulation Approved: April …, 2005
POLICY HANDBOOK • WAYNE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
The director of student services will be the Local Educational Agency Liaison for homeless children and youths.
The local educational agency liaison, or designee, shall insure that:
· homeless children and youths are voluntarily identified by school personnel and through coordination with other entities and agencies
· homeless children and youth enroll in and have a full and equal opportunity to succeed in schools in the district.
· homeless families, children, and youths receive educational services for which they are eligible and referrals to other appropriate services.
· the parents or guardians of a homeless child and any unaccompanied homeless youth is/are informed of the educational and related opportunities available to them and are provided with meaningful opportunities to participate in the education of the child/youth.
· public notice of the educational rights of homeless children and youths is disseminated in such public places as schools, meal sites, shelters and other locations frequented by low income families.
· compliance exists with all policies and procedures and mediate enrollment disputes
· the parents or guardians of a homeless child or youth, and unaccompanied youth, are informed of all transportation services, including transportation to the school of origin or to the school that is selected
· coordination of services between the school district and other homeless family service providers.
· assistance is provided to children and youth who do not have immunizations, or immunization or medical records, to obtain necessary immunizations, or immunization or medical records.
· students are not segregated on the basis of their status as homeless
· programs for homeless students are coordinated with other federal and local programs
If a dispute arises over school selection or enrollment in a school, the child or youth shall be immediately admitted to the school in which enrollment is sought, pending resolution of the dispute.
The local educational liaison shall carry out the dispute process as expeditiously as possible after receiving the notice of the dispute.
Appeals are filed with the superintendent of schools. The parent or guardian of the child or youth, or unaccompanied youth, shall be provided with a written explanation of the appealed decision regarding school selection or enrollment, including the rights of the parent, guardian, or youth to appeal the decision to the Office of Coordinator for Education of Homeless Children and Youths in the NYS Department of Education
Regulation Approved: April …, 2005
POLICY HANDBOOK • WAYNE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT