5-8-01 Board Meeting

EVERETT PUBLIC SCHOOLS
EVERETT, WASHINGTON Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors of Everett Public Schools, Snohomish County, Washington, held a regular Board meeting on Tuesday, March 21, 2006, beginning at 4:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 4730 Colby Avenue, Everett, Washington. Those in attendance were Kristie Dutton, Karen Madsen and Roy Yates. Board member Sue Cooper arrived at 4:40 p.m. because she was delayed by traffic.

ADOPTION OF AGENDA
President Yates called for any recommended changes to the agenda. Superintendent Carol Whitehead reported that there would be a revised personnel report. With that, Kristie Dutton moved to adopt the revised agenda. Karen Madsen seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Karen Madsen moved for approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of February 21, 2006 and the special meeting of March 14, 2006. Kristie Dutton seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
ORGANIZATION OF THE BOARD
In accordance with Board Policy 1113—Board Vacancies, in case of a Board vacancy, the remaining Board members shall fill such vacancy by appointment through an open competitive application and interview process, to serve until the next regularly-scheduled election. The appointment shall be approved by roll call vote by not less than three members of the Board.

President Yates stated that with the resignation of Board member Paul Roberts in January 2006, a vacancy arose on the Board. In accordance with Board policy, the Board was charged with filling the vacancy by appointment, through an open competitive application and interview process, to serve the unexpired term until the next regularly-scheduled election which, in this case, is November 2007. Applications were solicited for the position by advertising in the local newspapers for approximately one month. Two very exceptional candidates applied and were interviewed by the Board. Before the Board tonight was Ed Petersen, the candidate recommended to fill the Board vacancy.

Karen Madsen moved to appoint Ed Petersen to serve the unexpired term of Paul Roberts, who resigned effective January 4, 2006, to accept a position with the Everett City Council (E:117/06). Kristie Dutton seconded the motion. Recording Secretary Kathy Mahan conducted a roll call vote. The motion passed unanimously.

APPOINTMENT OF BOARD MEMBER
{Board member Cooper arrived at this point in the meeting.}

In accordance with Board Policy 1114—Oath of Office, each new member shall take an oath to support the constitutions of the United States and the State of Washington and to promote the interests of education and to faithfully discharge the duties of his/her office to the best of his/her ability. Secretary to the Board Carol Whitehead administered the oath of office to newly-appointed Board member Ed Petersen who replaces Paul Roberts (E:118/06). Mr. Petersen was appointed by the Board to complete the time remaining on Mr. Roberts’ term which concludes in 2007. At that time, it will be necessary for Mr. Petersen to run for election to the position.

{Board member Petersen took his place at the Board table.}
When invited to comment, Board member Petersen said he is delighted to serve on the Board and is honored and excited to be a part of the team. He described his work for the past 18 years as the Director of Housing Hope. It has presented many challenges and opportunities, but the community has wholeheartedly embraced the organization. He is hopeful that his knowledge about homelessness will meld with his work on the Board as a valuable collaboration. Obviously, he will have a significant learning curve, but he looks forward to the opportunity.

Board member Cooper said she is delighted to have Mr. Petersen on the Board and appreciates the fact that he is making this commitment in light of his already-busy schedule. She sees him as objective, knowledgeable about the community and willing to learn. President Yates concurred with Mrs. Cooper and said he has heard
consistently positive comments about Mr. Petersen.

OATH OF OFFICE

OATH OF OFFICE
(cont’d.)
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS
Dr. Whitehead opened her comments by indicating that the District has found a new principal for Woodside Elementary School. Executive Director for Area 2 Lynn Evans introduced Wayne Kettler who will replace interim principal Eldon Allen. Mr. Kettler comes to the District from Granite Falls School District where he has been principal of Monte Cristo Elementary School for the past five years. Wayne is a graduate of Western Washington University and was once employed at Lowell Elementary School. Wayne commented that he is honored and excited to re-join Everett Public Schools. Having left Everett on a good note and returning in the same manner, he is looking forward to this new challenge. On behalf of the Board, President Yates congratulated Wayne and welcomed him back to the District.

Dr. Whitehead displayed the recent WSSDA newsletter and pointed out a joint photograph of Karen Madsen and Dr. Whitehead from the 2006 WASA/WSSDA Legislative Conference (E:119/06).
SUPT’S COMMENTS
Next, Dr. Whitehead read from a press release that the Jackson High School jazz ensemble took honors at an international jazz festival in Moscow, Idaho, in February (attached).

Dr. Whitehead called on the District’s Executive Director for Curriculum Alignment and Implementation Terry Edwards who talked about the Washington Scholars GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) grant which provides an opportunity for the district to target funds to provide school, after-school and summer enrichment activities for specific students to prepare them for college.

The GEAR UP program is a discretionary grant program coming from the Governor’s office but using federal funds, and is designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education. GEAR UP grants serve students beginning no later than 7^th grade and follow the students through high school. GEAR UP funds are also used to provide college scholarships to the students to attend any public college in Washington State. Among the District’s partners in the grant are the Refugee and Immigrant Forum, the Everett Public Schools Foundation, Durham School Services, the University of Washington-Bothell and Everett Community College. The goals of the grant are to increase the number of students passing core academic subjects, increase the number of students meeting standard on the WASL, and engage and challenge the students in rigorous coursework. North Middle and Everett High Schools applied/is applying for two of the grants. So far, North Middle School has received $112,000 for a Washington State Scholars project for next year’s 8^th graders. It will begin this summer with a two-week program for 75 students who have been identified as qualifying for low-income status, or service by Title I, or aid to dependent children. It is not a remediation grant; rather, it is for the most capable youngsters who meet the criteria.

When asked how the District will maintain the population, Terry replied that if the students leave the District, they will not be replaced and the number of students will decrease. The grant is only for these 75 students. Strategizing is being done to over-identify at the beginning in order to keep a more “ solid” number. Terry said District staff members are also working on a GEAR UP grant with the University of Washington and nine other schools which targets 6^th and 7^th graders for next year.

Director of Athletics Robert Polk reported on recent athletic activities. The Cascade High School girls bowling team won the district championship and placed third at state. In wrestling, Cascade High School placed 19^th at state and placed three wrestlers in the top eight of their weight class. Everett placed seventh as a team and also placed three wrestlers in the top eight, including Kenny Hudson, the state champion at 275 pounds. In basketball, Cascade High School completed the full turnaround from four years ago when they won only one game. This year, they won the league and district championships and went to state for the first time in many years. The Jackson High School girls basketball team, using juniors and sophomores, made their first trip to state and nearly made it to the final day before losing to Meadowdale. The Jackson High School boys basketball team had a great week at state. After losing on the first day to Isaiah Thomas, of Curtis High School, Jackson won three in a row to place fifth at state. Jackson and Cascade sent at least seven busloads of fans to the games in Tacoma. The kids were well-behaved, cheered appropriately and had lots of enthusiasm. Jackson High School’s Kris ti Kingma (a sophomore) was named to the all-tourney basketball team, with a 23 points-per-game average. Kristi may be one of the few female athletes to go to state in three sports: soccer, track and basketball. Also from Jackson High School, Drew Eisinger was named to the boys all-tourney basketball team with an average of 24.5 points per game.

Dr. Whitehead reported that Governor Gregoire declared March 20-26 as School Retirees Appreciation Week (see attached proclamation). Dr. Whitehead noted that retirees represent a group that has made a difference in the lives of children and who generally go on to remain in the community and volunteer. Kudos to them.

Finally, Dr. Whitehead noted that the high school art reception and awards ceremony will take place tonight in the foyer of the Educational Service Center whose hallways are adorned with the work of these very talented young people.

SUPT’S COMMENTS
(cont’d.)
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.

RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
Director of Communications Gay Campbell introduced two retirees in attendance tonight.
1) Steve Katz —from the Human Resources department—has 26 years in education, 8.8 of them in Everett. Executive Director for Human Resources Molly Ringo commented, saying that Steve worked for a number of years in the Seattle School District doing policy and grants management, professional development and human resources. He went to the Highline School District in 1990 to work in human resources and came to Everett in 1996, also in human resources. In addition, he has owned his own business. Steve is known for his commitment to quality employee recruitment, attention to detail, loyalty and humor. Steve commented. He thanked the Board for
PUBLIC COMMENT

RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
their professionalism that provides clear policymaking guidance. He also thanked his human resources colleagues, including Deanne Pilkenton, Cheryl Plumb, Marie Underwood, Elly Ellsworth, Carol Freitas and Dionne Emerson. They are professional and hardworking individuals who put forth a strong team effort. Steve also thanked his wife, Vicki, for her love and support. On behalf of the Board, President Yates presented Steve with a crystal memento apple and thanked him for his hard work and professional counsel.

RECOGNITION OF RETIREES (cont’d.)
2) JoLinda Finne —works in the Special Services department with the visually impaired— has 27 years in education, 24 of them in Everett. Executive Director for Special Services Kris McDowell commented, saying that JoLinda taught at Edinborough State College, Seattle School District and then Everett. She is a Braille master who has received several service awards and worked on many state committees. JoLinda is a consummate professional who is willing to try anything and everything. She is a lifelong learner, an advocate, an adventurer, a birdwatcher and a tap dancer. JoLinda said that Everett is a wonderful, strong and professional district of which to be a part. She is proud to have helped the program evolve and grow over the years. The people around her have been part of what makes her strong. She introduced colleagues Terry Lang, Bev Gessel, Sue Allen, Janet Loesche, Claudia Menard, Sandy, and her husband Rudy. Her plans are to keep tap dancing and watching birds, travel and consult. On behalf of the Board of Directors, President Yates thanked JoLinda for her many years of service and presented her with a crystal memento apple. Teachers have such a meaningful impact and especially so in the area of the visually impaired.
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
Financial reports as of February 28, 2006, were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:120/06). The reports include year-to-date information on revenues and expenditures, General Fund projections, a cash report and an investment summary.
Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations Bob Collard said the District has a
healthy fund balance of $7.8 million.
FINANCIAL
REPORTS
ACTION ITEMS
Karen Madsen moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda items. Kristie Dutton seconded the motion. Ed Petersen abstained from voting on the Consent Agenda items.
1) Personnel Report (revised) (E:121/06);
2) Voucher Lists (E:122/06);
3) Proposed Revised Policy 3222—Distribution of Materials (relating to distribution of materials written and/or produced by students) (E:123/06);
4) Authorization to Call for Bids—Pupil Transportation Services (E:124/06);
5) Declaration of Surplus Property (E:125/06);
6) Monetary Gift from Jackson High School Band Boosters to Jackson H.S. in the Amount of $7,414.51 to Provide Funds for the Spring 2006 Band Trip (E:126/06);
7) Monetary Grant from View Ridge Elementary School PTA to View Ridge Elementary in the Amount of $7,340 to Use for Assemblies, Field Trips, Accelerated Reader and to Purchase a Laptop Computer (E:127/06);
8) Approval of Superintendent’s Contract (E:128/06); and
9) License Agreement Between Everett School District and Global Spectrum L.P., for the Purpose of Holding June 2006 Graduation Ceremonies (E:129/06).

The motion carried with four Board members voting in favor and Board member Petersen abstaining.

CONSENT AGENDA
The Administration recommended the Board of Directors authorize a call for bids for the new elementary school #17 project. A PowerPoint presentation by Director of Construction Hal Beumel, provided an overview of the building and site designs of the project (E:130/06). The new elementary school will feature a two-story building of approximately 62,500 square feet, covered play area and natural grass playfield for school and community use. The project will also include a new public through street connecting Silver Firs Drive (from the north) to 156^th Street S.E. (from the west). Construction is currently scheduled to begin in June 2006 and be completed prior to the start of the 2007-2008 school year. Estimated construction cost is $19,100,000 (through the 2006 bond issue) and includes the roadway work and converting the Gateway Middle School field to grass.

Director of Facilities and Planning Mike Gunn provided a background history of the site which is adjacent to Gateway Middle School. The property was purchased in the 1980s and is approximately 60 acres. In 1994, the construction of Gateway Middle School began. Since then, the Snohomish County wetlands laws have become more stringent so that the District no longer has room to build a new school where it was originally envisioned. In addition, the character of the neighborhood has changed from a rural forested area to that of housing developments. The District has, therefore, made plans to build a new elementary school whose design, although not a prototype elementary school, will be very good. The District is also moving forward to make 156 ^th a through street to connect to Silver Firs Drive. The District will not have to maintain this street, yet there will be better access for buses and emergency vehicles. In addition, the traffic congestion on the Gateway Middle School site will be greatly improved.

As he showed slides of the architect’s rendering of the new school, Hal said it will be a two-story building with a daylight basement. It is not, however, a complete two-story. Clerestories will be among the ways that daylight will be provided to brighten and lighten the basement. A three-pod approach is being taken and resembles many of the same relationships as the Penny Creek, Mill Creek and Cedarwood Elementary School sites. Break-out spaces will be provided. All of the younger children will remain on the main level. There will be outdoor learning spaces and large patios. Guard railing and fencing will be among the safety features.

The new elementary school’s principal, Brenda Fuglevand, commented. She reported that she met with the Gateway Middle School staff and they are excited to have neighbors. She said she has been included in every step of the process in which she wants to be included. She is excited about all of the project, but especially so about some of the school’s unique characteristics such as breakout spaces and patios.

Board member Petersen asked whether a green analysis of the design has been conducted. Hal and Tim, the lead certified designer, replied that there has been that kind of focus even though they have been working within a limited timeframe. The layout of the building incorporates energy conservation techniques associated with the lighting and air circulation. In addition, the design has worked well with the site. President Yates commented about when the property was purchased and said he is happy to see the plan come to fruition. It was a good acquisition on the part of the District and, thus, for the community. Board member Cooper said it is good to see the accommodations that have been made since the purchase regarding wetlands, etc. Board member Madsen sought clarification about the location of the playing fields.

With no further comments, Ed Petersen moved to authorize a call for bids for the new elementary school #17. Karen Madsen seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS: NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NO. 17

AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS: NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NO. 17
(cont’d.)
BOARD COMMENTS
Board member Cooper commented on the success of the recent Everett Public Schools Foundation breakfast. Over $77,000 was raised, less than half of which was from corporate sponsors and matching funds. Susan Quatrociocchi was a wonderful speaker. Attendance was very good. She thanked those who attended and applauded their efforts in “putting tables together.”

Board member Petersen commented on the untimely passing of Whittier Elementary School teacher Cecilia Morgan—it was very sad. Two of his daughters were her students and she was an excellent teacher. President Yates said the Board sends its best wishes to Anne Martinis, retired elementary school principal, who is very ill.

With no further comments, at 5:45 p.m. President Yates recessed the regular meeting into executive session concerning potential litigation and real estate. Before recessing, it was announced the executive session would be of approximately 25 minutes’ duration.
BOARD COMMENTS

BOARD COMMENTS
(cont’d.)
BOARD ACTION AND/OR BOARD DISCUSSION
An executive session was held at 5:45 p.m. concerning potential litigation and real estate. On hand were Mike Gunn, Bob Collard, Karst Brandsma and Fred Rivera (of the law firm of Perkins Coie).

At 6:10 p.m., the Board Room door was opened and it was announced the executive session would extend for another five minutes.

President Yates re-convened the regular meeting at 6:15 p.m. and adjourned immediately.

EXECUTIVE SESSION— POTENTIAL LITIGATION AND REAL ESTATE
_____________________________ ________________________________
Carol Whitehead, Secretary Roy Yates, President

The Board of Directors of Everett Public Schools, Snohomish County, Washington, held a regular Board meeting on Tuesday, March 21, 2006, beginning at 4:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 4730 Colby Avenue, Everett, Washington. Those in attendance were Kristie Dutton, Karen Madsen and Roy Yates. Board member Sue Cooper arrived at 4:40 p.m. because she was delayed by traffic.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA President Yates called for any recommended changes to the agenda. Superintendent Carol Whitehead reported that there would be a revised personnel report. With that, Kristie Dutton moved to adopt the revised agenda. Karen Madsen seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		ADOPTION OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Karen Madsen moved for approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of February 21, 2006 and the special meeting of March 14, 2006. Kristie Dutton seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		APPROVAL OF MINUTES
ORGANIZATION OF THE BOARD In accordance with Board Policy 1113—Board Vacancies, in case of a Board vacancy, the remaining Board members shall fill such vacancy by appointment through an open competitive application and interview process, to serve until the next regularly-scheduled election. The appointment shall be approved by roll call vote by not less than three members of the Board. President Yates stated that with the resignation of Board member Paul Roberts in January 2006, a vacancy arose on the Board. In accordance with Board policy, the Board was charged with filling the vacancy by appointment, through an open competitive application and interview process, to serve the unexpired term until the next regularly-scheduled election which, in this case, is November 2007. Applications were solicited for the position by advertising in the local newspapers for approximately one month. Two very exceptional candidates applied and were interviewed by the Board. Before the Board tonight was Ed Petersen, the candidate recommended to fill the Board vacancy. Karen Madsen moved to appoint Ed Petersen to serve the unexpired term of Paul Roberts, who resigned effective January 4, 2006, to accept a position with the Everett City Council (E:117/06). Kristie Dutton seconded the motion. Recording Secretary Kathy Mahan conducted a roll call vote. The motion passed unanimously.		APPOINTMENT OF BOARD MEMBER
{Board member Cooper arrived at this point in the meeting.} In accordance with Board Policy 1114—Oath of Office, each new member shall take an oath to support the constitutions of the United States and the State of Washington and to promote the interests of education and to faithfully discharge the duties of his/her office to the best of his/her ability. Secretary to the Board Carol Whitehead administered the oath of office to newly-appointed Board member Ed Petersen who replaces Paul Roberts (E:118/06). Mr. Petersen was appointed by the Board to complete the time remaining on Mr. Roberts’ term which concludes in 2007. At that time, it will be necessary for Mr. Petersen to run for election to the position. {Board member Petersen took his place at the Board table.} When invited to comment, Board member Petersen said he is delighted to serve on the Board and is honored and excited to be a part of the team. He described his work for the past 18 years as the Director of Housing Hope. It has presented many challenges and opportunities, but the community has wholeheartedly embraced the organization. He is hopeful that his knowledge about homelessness will meld with his work on the Board as a valuable collaboration. Obviously, he will have a significant learning curve, but he looks forward to the opportunity. Board member Cooper said she is delighted to have Mr. Petersen on the Board and appreciates the fact that he is making this commitment in light of his already-busy schedule. She sees him as objective, knowledgeable about the community and willing to learn. President Yates concurred with Mrs. Cooper and said he has heard consistently positive comments about Mr. Petersen.		OATH OF OFFICE OATH OF OFFICE (cont’d.)
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS Dr. Whitehead opened her comments by indicating that the District has found a new principal for Woodside Elementary School. Executive Director for Area 2 Lynn Evans introduced Wayne Kettler who will replace interim principal Eldon Allen. Mr. Kettler comes to the District from Granite Falls School District where he has been principal of Monte Cristo Elementary School for the past five years. Wayne is a graduate of Western Washington University and was once employed at Lowell Elementary School. Wayne commented that he is honored and excited to re-join Everett Public Schools. Having left Everett on a good note and returning in the same manner, he is looking forward to this new challenge. On behalf of the Board, President Yates congratulated Wayne and welcomed him back to the District. Dr. Whitehead displayed the recent WSSDA newsletter and pointed out a joint photograph of Karen Madsen and Dr. Whitehead from the 2006 WASA/WSSDA Legislative Conference (E:119/06).		SUPT’S COMMENTS
Next, Dr. Whitehead read from a press release that the Jackson High School jazz ensemble took honors at an international jazz festival in Moscow, Idaho, in February (attached). Dr. Whitehead called on the District’s Executive Director for Curriculum Alignment and Implementation Terry Edwards who talked about the Washington Scholars GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) grant which provides an opportunity for the district to target funds to provide school, after-school and summer enrichment activities for specific students to prepare them for college. The GEAR UP program is a discretionary grant program coming from the Governor’s office but using federal funds, and is designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education. GEAR UP grants serve students beginning no later than 7^th grade and follow the students through high school. GEAR UP funds are also used to provide college scholarships to the students to attend any public college in Washington State. Among the District’s partners in the grant are the Refugee and Immigrant Forum, the Everett Public Schools Foundation, Durham School Services, the University of Washington-Bothell and Everett Community College. The goals of the grant are to increase the number of students passing core academic subjects, increase the number of students meeting standard on the WASL, and engage and challenge the students in rigorous coursework. North Middle and Everett High Schools applied/is applying for two of the grants. So far, North Middle School has received $112,000 for a Washington State Scholars project for next year’s 8^th graders. It will begin this summer with a two-week program for 75 students who have been identified as qualifying for low-income status, or service by Title I, or aid to dependent children. It is not a remediation grant; rather, it is for the most capable youngsters who meet the criteria. When asked how the District will maintain the population, Terry replied that if the students leave the District, they will not be replaced and the number of students will decrease. The grant is only for these 75 students. Strategizing is being done to over-identify at the beginning in order to keep a more “ solid” number. Terry said District staff members are also working on a GEAR UP grant with the University of Washington and nine other schools which targets 6^th and 7^th graders for next year. Director of Athletics Robert Polk reported on recent athletic activities. The Cascade High School girls bowling team won the district championship and placed third at state. In wrestling, Cascade High School placed 19^th at state and placed three wrestlers in the top eight of their weight class. Everett placed seventh as a team and also placed three wrestlers in the top eight, including Kenny Hudson, the state champion at 275 pounds. In basketball, Cascade High School completed the full turnaround from four years ago when they won only one game. This year, they won the league and district championships and went to state for the first time in many years. The Jackson High School girls basketball team, using juniors and sophomores, made their first trip to state and nearly made it to the final day before losing to Meadowdale. The Jackson High School boys basketball team had a great week at state. After losing on the first day to Isaiah Thomas, of Curtis High School, Jackson won three in a row to place fifth at state. Jackson and Cascade sent at least seven busloads of fans to the games in Tacoma. The kids were well-behaved, cheered appropriately and had lots of enthusiasm. Jackson High School’s Kris ti Kingma (a sophomore) was named to the all-tourney basketball team, with a 23 points-per-game average. Kristi may be one of the few female athletes to go to state in three sports: soccer, track and basketball. Also from Jackson High School, Drew Eisinger was named to the boys all-tourney basketball team with an average of 24.5 points per game. Dr. Whitehead reported that Governor Gregoire declared March 20-26 as School Retirees Appreciation Week (see attached proclamation). Dr. Whitehead noted that retirees represent a group that has made a difference in the lives of children and who generally go on to remain in the community and volunteer. Kudos to them. Finally, Dr. Whitehead noted that the high school art reception and awards ceremony will take place tonight in the foyer of the Educational Service Center whose hallways are adorned with the work of these very talented young people.		SUPT’S COMMENTS (cont’d.)
PUBLIC COMMENT None. RECOGNITION OF RETIREES Director of Communications Gay Campbell introduced two retirees in attendance tonight. 1) Steve Katz —from the Human Resources department—has 26 years in education, 8.8 of them in Everett. Executive Director for Human Resources Molly Ringo commented, saying that Steve worked for a number of years in the Seattle School District doing policy and grants management, professional development and human resources. He went to the Highline School District in 1990 to work in human resources and came to Everett in 1996, also in human resources. In addition, he has owned his own business. Steve is known for his commitment to quality employee recruitment, attention to detail, loyalty and humor. Steve commented. He thanked the Board for		PUBLIC COMMENT RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
their professionalism that provides clear policymaking guidance. He also thanked his human resources colleagues, including Deanne Pilkenton, Cheryl Plumb, Marie Underwood, Elly Ellsworth, Carol Freitas and Dionne Emerson. They are professional and hardworking individuals who put forth a strong team effort. Steve also thanked his wife, Vicki, for her love and support. On behalf of the Board, President Yates presented Steve with a crystal memento apple and thanked him for his hard work and professional counsel.		RECOGNITION OF RETIREES (cont’d.)
2) JoLinda Finne —works in the Special Services department with the visually impaired— has 27 years in education, 24 of them in Everett. Executive Director for Special Services Kris McDowell commented, saying that JoLinda taught at Edinborough State College, Seattle School District and then Everett. She is a Braille master who has received several service awards and worked on many state committees. JoLinda is a consummate professional who is willing to try anything and everything. She is a lifelong learner, an advocate, an adventurer, a birdwatcher and a tap dancer. JoLinda said that Everett is a wonderful, strong and professional district of which to be a part. She is proud to have helped the program evolve and grow over the years. The people around her have been part of what makes her strong. She introduced colleagues Terry Lang, Bev Gessel, Sue Allen, Janet Loesche, Claudia Menard, Sandy, and her husband Rudy. Her plans are to keep tap dancing and watching birds, travel and consult. On behalf of the Board of Directors, President Yates thanked JoLinda for her many years of service and presented her with a crystal memento apple. Teachers have such a meaningful impact and especially so in the area of the visually impaired.
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION Financial reports as of February 28, 2006, were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:120/06). The reports include year-to-date information on revenues and expenditures, General Fund projections, a cash report and an investment summary. Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations Bob Collard said the District has a healthy fund balance of $7.8 million.		FINANCIAL REPORTS
ACTION ITEMS Karen Madsen moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda items. Kristie Dutton seconded the motion. Ed Petersen abstained from voting on the Consent Agenda items. 1) Personnel Report (revised) (E:121/06); 2) Voucher Lists (E:122/06); 3) Proposed Revised Policy 3222—Distribution of Materials (relating to distribution of materials written and/or produced by students) (E:123/06); 4) Authorization to Call for Bids—Pupil Transportation Services (E:124/06); 5) Declaration of Surplus Property (E:125/06); 6) Monetary Gift from Jackson High School Band Boosters to Jackson H.S. in the Amount of $7,414.51 to Provide Funds for the Spring 2006 Band Trip (E:126/06); 7) Monetary Grant from View Ridge Elementary School PTA to View Ridge Elementary in the Amount of $7,340 to Use for Assemblies, Field Trips, Accelerated Reader and to Purchase a Laptop Computer (E:127/06); 8) Approval of Superintendent’s Contract (E:128/06); and 9) License Agreement Between Everett School District and Global Spectrum L.P., for the Purpose of Holding June 2006 Graduation Ceremonies (E:129/06). The motion carried with four Board members voting in favor and Board member Petersen abstaining.		CONSENT AGENDA
The Administration recommended the Board of Directors authorize a call for bids for the new elementary school #17 project. A PowerPoint presentation by Director of Construction Hal Beumel, provided an overview of the building and site designs of the project (E:130/06). The new elementary school will feature a two-story building of approximately 62,500 square feet, covered play area and natural grass playfield for school and community use. The project will also include a new public through street connecting Silver Firs Drive (from the north) to 156^th Street S.E. (from the west). Construction is currently scheduled to begin in June 2006 and be completed prior to the start of the 2007-2008 school year. Estimated construction cost is $19,100,000 (through the 2006 bond issue) and includes the roadway work and converting the Gateway Middle School field to grass. Director of Facilities and Planning Mike Gunn provided a background history of the site which is adjacent to Gateway Middle School. The property was purchased in the 1980s and is approximately 60 acres. In 1994, the construction of Gateway Middle School began. Since then, the Snohomish County wetlands laws have become more stringent so that the District no longer has room to build a new school where it was originally envisioned. In addition, the character of the neighborhood has changed from a rural forested area to that of housing developments. The District has, therefore, made plans to build a new elementary school whose design, although not a prototype elementary school, will be very good. The District is also moving forward to make 156 ^th a through street to connect to Silver Firs Drive. The District will not have to maintain this street, yet there will be better access for buses and emergency vehicles. In addition, the traffic congestion on the Gateway Middle School site will be greatly improved. As he showed slides of the architect’s rendering of the new school, Hal said it will be a two-story building with a daylight basement. It is not, however, a complete two-story. Clerestories will be among the ways that daylight will be provided to brighten and lighten the basement. A three-pod approach is being taken and resembles many of the same relationships as the Penny Creek, Mill Creek and Cedarwood Elementary School sites. Break-out spaces will be provided. All of the younger children will remain on the main level. There will be outdoor learning spaces and large patios. Guard railing and fencing will be among the safety features. The new elementary school’s principal, Brenda Fuglevand, commented. She reported that she met with the Gateway Middle School staff and they are excited to have neighbors. She said she has been included in every step of the process in which she wants to be included. She is excited about all of the project, but especially so about some of the school’s unique characteristics such as breakout spaces and patios. Board member Petersen asked whether a green analysis of the design has been conducted. Hal and Tim, the lead certified designer, replied that there has been that kind of focus even though they have been working within a limited timeframe. The layout of the building incorporates energy conservation techniques associated with the lighting and air circulation. In addition, the design has worked well with the site. President Yates commented about when the property was purchased and said he is happy to see the plan come to fruition. It was a good acquisition on the part of the District and, thus, for the community. Board member Cooper said it is good to see the accommodations that have been made since the purchase regarding wetlands, etc. Board member Madsen sought clarification about the location of the playing fields. With no further comments, Ed Petersen moved to authorize a call for bids for the new elementary school #17. Karen Madsen seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS: NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NO. 17 AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS: NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NO. 17 (cont’d.)
BOARD COMMENTS Board member Cooper commented on the success of the recent Everett Public Schools Foundation breakfast. Over $77,000 was raised, less than half of which was from corporate sponsors and matching funds. Susan Quatrociocchi was a wonderful speaker. Attendance was very good. She thanked those who attended and applauded their efforts in “putting tables together.” Board member Petersen commented on the untimely passing of Whittier Elementary School teacher Cecilia Morgan—it was very sad. Two of his daughters were her students and she was an excellent teacher. President Yates said the Board sends its best wishes to Anne Martinis, retired elementary school principal, who is very ill. With no further comments, at 5:45 p.m. President Yates recessed the regular meeting into executive session concerning potential litigation and real estate. Before recessing, it was announced the executive session would be of approximately 25 minutes’ duration.		BOARD COMMENTS BOARD COMMENTS (cont’d.)
BOARD ACTION AND/OR BOARD DISCUSSION An executive session was held at 5:45 p.m. concerning potential litigation and real estate. On hand were Mike Gunn, Bob Collard, Karst Brandsma and Fred Rivera (of the law firm of Perkins Coie). At 6:10 p.m., the Board Room door was opened and it was announced the executive session would extend for another five minutes. President Yates re-convened the regular meeting at 6:15 p.m. and adjourned immediately.		EXECUTIVE SESSION— POTENTIAL LITIGATION AND REAL ESTATE
_____________________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Roy Yates, President