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, July 10, 2007, 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, Sue Cooper, Ed Petersen and Roy Yates. Absent: Karen Madsen. In the absence of President Madsen, Vice President Dutton served as President Pro Tem. [Due to traffic tie-ups, Board member Yates did not arrive until the Superintendent’s Comments segment.] |
| |
ADOPTION OF AGENDA Vice President Dutton called for any recommended changes to the agenda. Superintendent Carol Whitehead reported that there would be a revised personnel report. With that, Sue Cooper moved for adoption of the revised agenda. Ed Petersen seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. | ADOPTION OF AGENDA | |
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Ed Petersen moved for approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of June 19, 2007. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES | |
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS Superintendent Whitehead opened her comments by noting that tonight’s Consent Agenda includes the donation of a parlor grand piano from the estate of Linda Fisher, long-time employee in Everett Public Schools. Linda began her employment in Everett as a teacher, and then was a principal at Jackson and Garfield Elementary Schools.
[Board member Yates arrived.]
Dr. Whitehead reported that the annual Washington State Patrol inspection of District school buses has been completed and shows exceptional results. For the past two years, the District has received an outstanding rating. A congratulatory letter was received from the State Superintendent of Public Instruction and the Chief of the Washington State Patrol (E:193/07).
The District also recently received letters, signed by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, indicating that Garfield and Silver Lake Elementary Schools are among 106 schools in the state to be awarded $4,200 (each) to be used to support the school’s continuing efforts to increase student academic success (attached). The funds are provided through NCLB Title I, Part A, and are based on student performance data on the WASL.
Dr. Whitehead referred to a two-part series of articles that appeared in the June 26 and 27 editions of The Herald about progress that has been made in Everett and other districts in Snohomish County in reducing the student failure rate (attached). Congratulations go to Everett’s administrative team, and the office of Curriculum Alignment and Implementation in particular. | SUPT’S COMMENTS | |
PUBLIC COMMENT None. | PUBLIC COMMENT | |
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES Coordinator of Communications Lauren Hadley reported that two retirees were on hand tonight: 1) Susan Rookaird —has worked in the District 28.2 years, most recently at Emerson Elementary School—Executive Director for Area 2 Lynn Evans said that Sue has worked at Hawthorne and Emerson Elementary Schools. She is a teacher who works well with students and staff. Thanks to her efforts, much progress has been made in the area of reading. She took a leadership role with the staff and was successful in writing classroom grants. Sue commented, saying that she has always enjoyed working in Everett and has appreciated the tremendous community support. She introduced her husband Jack.
2) Mark Bigger —has worked in the District for 33 years, most recently at Evergreen Middle School. In addition to working at Evergreen, Mark has worked at the Denney Youth Center and at Sequoia High School. Evergreen Middle School Assistant Principal Peter Scott commented that Mark always made a point of getting to know each of his students. He is adept at adding relevancy to his lessons. He is flexible and could work with anyone. Mark said he looks forward to being an Islander (Whidbey). He introduced his brother Brett, sister-in-law Judy and his wife Sue. | RECOGNITION OF RETIREES | |
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION The Administration presented an update on the progress of the Forest View Elementary School construction project.
Director of Facilities and Planning Mike Gunn reported that the Forest View project continues to proceed on the schedule that was anticipated. A great deal of labor is being expended, with approximately 80 to 90 workers reporting each day. Although the project is progressing well, Mike provided a sampling of the challenges that have been encountered during the last couple of weeks. --Opening of 156th will take longer than expected. The District is trying to get it opened as a private driveway for the immediate future until it is ready for actual opening. --The classroom light fixture ballasts have been recalled. The temporary “ ;fix” is to use them now and change them next year. Hopefully, the manufacturer will accept responsibility for the fix.
Mike shared a PowerPoint photo review of the site (E:194/07).
Dr. Whitehead reported that all staff members have been hired with the exception of one paraprofessional. A ribbon cutting will take place but, as is customary, probably not until a few months after the school opens. |
UPDATE ON FOREST VIEW ELEM. PROJECT | |
Financial reports as of May 31, 2007 were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:195/07). The reports include year-to-date information on revenues and expenditures, General Fund projections, a cash report and an investment summary. Director of Finance Jeff Moore reported that the District’s fund balance and projection is similar to past months. Additional capacity has been factored in to provide for the opening of Forest View Elementary School. | FINANCIAL REPORTS AS OF 5/31/07 | |
ACTION ITEMS Roy Yates moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda. Sue Cooper seconded the motion. |
CONSENT AGENDA | |
1)
Personnel Report (revised) (E:196/07); 2) Voucher Lists (E:197/07);
3) Donation from the Estate of Linda Fisher to North Middle School of a Kawai Parlor Grand Piano Valued in Excess of $10,000 for Use in the School’s Music Program (E:198/07); 4) Donation from Whittier Elem. School PTA to Whittier Elem. School in the Amount of $10,499.45 for the Purpose of Purchasing a Gym Traversing Wall (E:199/07); 5) Declaration of Surplus Property (E:200/07); 6) Award of Contract for Inspiration Software (E:201/07); 7) Tentative Agreement Between Everett School District and the Everett Licensed Nurses Association (ELNA) (E:202/07); 8) 2007-2008 Approval of Grant for Highly Capable Students Program (E:203/07); 9) 2007-2008 Approval of Grant for State Transitional Bilingual Program (E:204/07) 10) 2006-2007 Carl Perkins Vocational & Technical Education Grant for Career and Technical Education (E:205/07).
The motion carried unanimously. |
CONSENT AGENDA (cont’d.)
| |
The Administration presented the attached proposed revised Policy 3240—
Student Conduct
(adding language about assault/battery, pyrotechnics/fireworks, dangerous
weapons, hate gangs);
and proposed revised Policy 3309—Definition, to the Board of Directors
for adoption
(adding language regarding pyrotechnics/fireworks/explosives, dangerous
weapons) (E:206/07).
As provided in Board Policy 1310, the proposed changes were presented for immediate action because it is in the best interests of the District so that the information can be incorporated into the Student Responsibilities & Rights Handbook , which will be going to the printer very soon.
Lynn Evans addressed the proposed revisions. Each policy has been reviewed by the Administration, a parent committee, students, the Superintendent’s Cabinet and legal counsel (Val Hughes). No major changes are being proposed and are brought forth, in part, as a result of a change in the WAC.
Vice President Dutton asked whether there will be a special notice to parents, to which Lynn said the new information will be contained within the Student Responsibilities & Rights Handbook , which is reviewed with each student and signed off by the parent. Following clarification of the review steps, Board member Petersen said this is a thorough and healthy process.
With no further discussion, Ed Petersen moved to adopt the proposed Revised Policies 3240 and 3309. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. |
PROPOSED REV. POLICY 3240—STUDENT CONDUCT
(adding language about assault/battery, pyrotechnics/ fireworks, dangerous
weapons, hate gangs);
PROPOSED REV. POLICY 3309—DEFINITIONS
(adding language regarding pyrotechnics/
fireworks,explosives,
dangerous weapons)
| |
The Administration recommended that the Board of Directors adopt Resolution
886—Authorizing Sale of Unlimited Tax General Obligation Bonds, Series
2007, for the issuance and sale of Unlimited Tax General Obligation and
Refunding Bonds of the District in the aggregate principal amount of
$101,865,000, which is the approximate amount—the actual amount will be
determined at pricing on July 10, 2007 (Res.24/07). The purpose of this request is to provide funds required to construct, equip, acquire and make capital improvements to the facilities of the District as authorized by resolution of the Board of Directors and approved by the qualified electors of the District at a special election held therein on February 7, 2006, and for the purpose of refunding certain outstanding Unlimited Tax General Obligation Bonds of the District; providing and authorizing the purchase of certain acquired obligations with the proceeds of the sale of a portion of such bonds and for the use and application of the money derived from such investments. The actual dollar amount of the bonds was provided at tonight’s meeting.
Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations Bob Collard said that the District used a team of consultants. Jack Eaton, of UBS Securities LLC, was the lead underwriter and Cynthia Weed, from K & L Preston Gates Ellis LLP, served as legal counsel.
Jack distributed a copy of the bond purchase contract and final pricing document (attached). He said the sale involved a two-part process. Conference calls with two bond rating agencies (Moody’s and Standard & Poor’ ;s) were held a couple of weeks ago. Moody’s assigned the District a rating of AA3 while Standard & Poor’s gave the District an AA-. Each rating remained the same as last time. Both ratings are very strong. Each agency was impressed with the planning effort in the District. They were pleased with construction planning and with the general economic change in Snohomish County. The challenge of upgrading the ratings relates to economic issues in the city and county. The ratings agencies reviewed census data and determined that it was slightly below what it would take to move the District to the next level. An invitation will be extended to them to visit the District the next time the bond rating is to be set.
The next step was to sell the bonds. Jack said we hit a good point in the market today. A total of $1.13 million will not have to be passed on to the taxpayers. The average interest rate of all of the bonds is 4.45 percent and is similar to that secured a year ago. The bonds will mature on average in ten years. Today’s sale amounted to $99,525,000 worth of bonds and they were sold at premium.
With no further discussion, Sue Cooper moved to adopt the aforementioned Resolution 886 authorizing the sale of unlimited tax general obligation bonds (Series 2007). Roy Yates seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
|
RESOLUTION 886—AUTHORIZING SALE OF UNLIMITED TAX GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS,
SERIES 2007
RESOLUTION 886—AUTHORIZING SALE OF UNLIMITED TAX GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES 2007 | |
At 5:40 p.m., Vice President Dutton recessed the regular meeting into a public
hearing concerning the District’s Fiscal Year 2007-2008 Budget (E:207/07).
Jeff Moore began by complimenting Shirley Rochon and Karen Buchmann (budget analysts), Jill Stoffel (capital projects accountant) and Mike Gunn for their excellent work. He then reported that the Legislature concluded early this year; thus, the District administration was able to bring the final budget to the Board tonight. The public was given an opportunity to view the budget for a period of two weeks. The budget was also sent to Northwest ESD 189 for their review. Jeff distributed a PowerPoint handout and shared an overview of the presentation.
Following the presentation, Board member Cooper asked about budgeting methodologies. Board member Petersen sought clarification of the definition of the budget. Board member Yates said one of the strengths of the District has been its ability to manage the budget. Dr. Whitehead said the District continues to budget conservatively and, over the years, has become expert at its staffing model. The entire administration works collaboratively to make it successful.
Jeff commented that ASB revenues have climbed over time since the District instituted its nutrition policy.
With no further questions or comments from the Board, Vice President Dutton called for public comment. There was none.
With no further discussion, Vice President Dutton concluded the public hearing at 6:25 p.m. and moved immediately back into regular session. | PUBLIC HEARING—FISCAL YEAR 2007-2008 BUDGET | |
The Administration recommended adoption of Resolution 887—Adoption of the
Fiscal Year 2007-2008 Budget for all District funds (Res.25/07).
Sue Cooper moved to approve the aforementioned Resolution 887 adopting the Fiscal Year 2007-2008 budget. Roy Yates seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. |
RESOLUTION 887—ADOPTION OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2007-2008 BUDGET
| |
BOARD COMMENTS Board member Cooper said that the WSSDA legislative proposal statement needs some clarification. Dr. Whitehead will contact WSSDA and then include a draft statement in the Board’s Friday packet, after which Board members will contact the Superintendent’s office with feedback. The current statement from WSSDA, concerning salary equalization, will result in a significant reduction for the District in that it only applies to certificated staff when, in fact, others should also be included. The current phrasing is a detriment to the District and to other school districts that are grandfathered.
Vice President Dutton recessed the regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. for a rest break.
Vice President Dutton reconvened the regular meeting at 7 p.m. and moved immediately into the evening’s study sessions. |
BOARD COMMENTS | |
The Administration provided information concerning the District’s
end-of-year report on the 2006-2007 Strategic Plan (E:208/07).
Dr. Whitehead talked about the year’s reports to the Board and the Strategic Actions that align with each report.
Associate Superintendent for Instruction Karst Brandsma said that tonight’ s report would focus on three items: state-of-the school reviews (SOSRs), special education efficiencies and celebrating diversity.
Area Executive Directors Lynn Evans and Jim McNally reviewed a PowerPoint handout regarding the SOSRs and talked about the configuration for the presentations, the successes and recommendations for future presentations. They also discussed the District support that was requested by the schools. They reviewed the supervision and evaluation cycles for the schools. At the conclusion of this part of the presentation, Board member Petersen asked for clarification of the terms “instructional facilitators” and “ PLC” (professional learning centers).
Next, Executive Director for Special Services Kris McDowell reviewed special education efficiencies that have resulted in a significant reduction in legal action, increased quality of IEPs, over 99 percent compliance rate, a high portfolio pass rate and an increased safety net award.
As the third item in tonight’s presentation, Jim and Lynn provided a review of diversity in the District. They shared a PowerPoint presentation (attached). At the conclusion of this segment, Board member Petersen said he is impressed at the broad range of diversity across the District. | STUDY SESSION—END-OF-YEAR REPORT ON 2006-2007 STRATEGIC PLAN | |
The Administration provided information concerning the draft 2007-2008
Strategic Plan Goals (E:209/07).
Karst Brandsma talked about the thorough process that was followed to develop the 2007-2008 draft plan, including reviews and discussions by Cabinet, Leadership Team and other staff and input by the Board. Tonight’s draft document is being presented in bill form and also in regular format. It will serve as a starting point for the Board to provide input for the next year’ ;s reports to the Board. Dr. Whitehead asked the Board to review the documents and contact her prior to the August meeting if they have questions.
Board member Petersen said this is a great process. He really appreciates the format. |
STUDY SESSION—DRAFT 2007-2008 STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS
STUDY SESSION—DRAFT 2007-2008 STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS (cont’d.) | |
It was determined that Board members Yates, Petersen and Cooper will be absent
from the August 21 Board meeting. Without a quorum, it was necessary to change
the date of the August Board meeting.
Ed Petersen moved to amend tonight’s agenda to add an action item to move the August Board meeting. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
Following discussion, it was determined that Board members would be available on August 14. With that, Ed Petersen moved to change the August Board meeting to August 14. Roy Yates seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. | ADDENDUM —CHANGE AUGUST BOARD MTG. DATE | |
With no further comments, Vice President Dutton adjourned the regular meeting
at 8:50 p.m.
_________________________ __________________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Kristie Dutton, Vice President & President Pro Tem |