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, February 12, 2008, beginning at 3:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 4730 Colby Avenue, Everett, Washington. Those in attendance were: Carol Andrews, Sue Cooper, Kristie Dutton, Karen Madsen and Ed Petersen.   
    BOARD ACTION AND/OR BOARD DISCUSSION

    President Madsen called the regular meeting to order at 3:30 p.m. and moved immediately into executive session for the purpose of reviewing the performance of an employee, specifically to conduct the Superintendent’s mid-year evaluation. Prior to moving into executive session, it was announced the executive session would be of approximately 70 minutes’ duration.

     

    At 4:40 p.m., President Madsen concluded the executive session and moved immediately into the regular business meeting.

      

    EXEC. SESSION—REVIEW PERFORMANCE OF EMPLOYEE—SUPT’S MID-YEAR EVALUATION

    ADOPTION OF AGENDA

    President Madsen 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. Kristie Dutton seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

      ADOPTION OF AGENDA
    APPROVAL OF MINUTES

    Kristie Dutton moved for adoption of the minutes from the January 22, 2008 Board meeting. Carol Andrews seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Kristie Dutton moved for adoption of the minutes from the special meeting of

    January 29, 2008 Board meeting. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

      APPROVAL OF MINUTES
    SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS

    Superintendent Whitehead introduced Margaret Allen Bright representing Operation School Bell (and the Assistance League of Everett) who invited the Board to Operation School Bell’s celebration of that group’s having helped clothe 50,000 children in the Snohomish County area since the program was instituted in 1965. The celebration will take place on March 27 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Assistance League facility on Evergreen Way in Everett. Dr. Whitehead commented that Operation School Bell has been a wonderful partner with the District.

     

    Dr. Whitehead announced that on April 4 in Olympia, Governor Gregoire and OSPI Superintendent Terry Bergeson will recognize Terrie DeBolt as one of the first recipients of the State of Washington Classified Employee Excellence Award. Several principals, central office staff and bus drivers nominated her. Terrie will also be honored during a future school Board meeting.

      SUPT’S COMMENTS

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Next, Dr. Whitehead circulated a yearly report on the AVID program. AVID stands for Advancement via Individual Determination and is an in-school academic support program for grades 4-12 that prepares students for college eligibility and success. It helps level the playing field for minority, rural, low-income and other students without a college-going tradition in their families. It is for all students, but focuses on those in the academic middle. AVID is in place at North Middle and Everett High Schools.

    North Middle School recently received a $5,000 check for science studies from the Discovery Channel and Comcast. In addition, these organizations sponsored a Science Matters assembly which featured Steve Jacobs, who designs experiments for the show “Mythbusters,” and Richard Searfoss, a former NASA astronaut. Middle school science teachers in Everett School District will also receive kits containing lesson plans and their students can compete in a science contest for $25,000 with schools from 14 other cities.

     

    State-of-the-school reviews (SOSRs) are in progress. So far, six schools have reported. Dr. Whitehead commented that she is more and more impressed with each school’s work. The development of School Improvement Plans at each school has contributed to consistency across the District in terms of articulation and alignment. The Board is to be commended for setting clear long-term goals. The constancy of purpose from year to year of the District’s goal of each student learning to high standards and graduating from high school is evident. Outcomes continue to improve even though laws, staff and students change. Long-term fiscal and instructional planning is the key.

     

    The Administration’s presentation on the history of strategic planning in the District, which has been requested by the Board, will be presented at one of the Board meetings in March.

      

     

     

     

     

     

     

    SUPT’S COMMENTS

    (cont’d.)

    Everett Public Schools is among those receiving a Building Bridges grant for dropout prevention, intervention and retrieval. In particular, Everett is partnering with the Snohomish Workforce Development Council and the Marysville and Stanwood School Districts.

     

    Dr. Whitehead asked that the Board provide their feedback on the proposed changes in the draft revisions to the Series 1000 policies so that the proposed revisions can be taken to a Board meeting for first reading. She also shared a sample of a proposed new link for the Board’s page on the District’ s web site and asked that the Board review this sample only for content, not format.

     

    Dr. Whitehead noted that the Board had indicated their interest in receiving a list of activities in the District that are aimed at addressing diversity among our students and parents. The attached list was generated by the Leadership Team in the space of approximately 20 minutes during a recent Leadership Team meeting in which they were asked to recall as many activities as possible that are embedded in District work (E:108/08). It is not an all-inclusive list, yet it is very impressive. She gave examples of the contents of the list.

      
    PUBLIC COMMENT

    After President Madsen outlined the guidelines for public comment, she called on the following individuals who had submitted Public Comment cards:

    1)  Sandy Magin —property owner—She referenced a letter that she and her husband, among others, received on January 10 regarding District plans to address future growth in the District. Theirs is among properties that the District is interested in purchasing, but the Magins are not interested in selling. They spent the last eight years building their home and are within five years of retirement and a re-creation of their home somewhere else is not possible. She listed other options the District could pursue such as checking with developers who may have over-bought in the area and considering commercial properties along 35th as well as county and city parks along 35 th.

    2)   Howard Baker —property owner—The Bakers are neighbors of the Magins and their property is also targeted for potential District acquisition, but the Bakers are also not interested in selling. He said eminent domain was mentioned in the first letter they received. He talked about the loss almost a year ago of their twin daughters at birth and said that the District has been very supportive throughout this tragic time. Their son had a wonderful experience at Cedar Wood Elementary, and he now attends the new school (Forest View). Some of Mr. Baker’s neighbors and friends were on hand tonight. He went on to say that they (the Bakers), like the Magins, have spent many years creating their home and these are not properties that they can replicate somewhere else. He asked that the District explore every option. He closed by noting that some of the vacant property mentioned by Mrs. Magin is within the Urban Growth Area and is very close to the Magin/Baker properties.

      PUBLIC COMMENT

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    PUBLIC COMMENT

    (cont’d.)

    RECOGNITION OF RETIREES

    None.

      RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
    ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

    The Administration provided a status report which addresses the following Strategic Plan goal: 2.3—Recruit, hire and retain quality staff; and strategies: 2.3a—Continue implementation of the Everett Public Schools recruitment plan, with additional emphasis on diversity and substitutes; and 2.3c—Continue to monitor staff retention data. The presentation included a look back at 2007, a look forward to 2008-2009 recruiting initiatives, addressing the diverse employment pool project, projected 2008-2009 staffing needs, state-identified teaching shortage areas for 2007-2009, and the 2007-2008 recruiting schedule (E:109/08). Molly Ringo (Executive Director for Human Resources), Randi Seaburg (Director of Certificated Staffing/Benefits), Carol Stolz (Director of Classified Staffing/Benefits) and Betty Cobbs (Director of Teacher Assistance & Mentoring) presented.

     

    Board member Dutton congratulated the department on their partnership with the University of Washington. In terms of “growing our own,” President Madsen said it has been encouraging to see the growth of the 12 paraeducators who participated in the District’s partnership with City University which enabled them to earn their bachelor’s degrees and become special education teachers. A similar opportunity will be offered beginning in July 2008. Ms. Madsen said she also supports the notion of student teachers applying to do substitute teaching. Board member Cooper complimented the department on its work to consider many approaches for recruiting and retaining quality staff. Molly said hiring Betty Cobbs has been very helpful, as has been the implementation of the WinOcular Online application system.

       

    REPORT—EMPLOYMENT RECRUITMENT & RETENTION

    The Administration provided an overview of the various operation activities and current initiatives of the Finance Department (E:110/08). Associate Superintendent of Finance and Operations Bob Collard opened the presentation, saying that a district with a mission as critical as that of Everett Public Schools needs a strong Business & Finance department and Everett’s is superb. Director of Finance Jeff Moore said the department is very integrated within the finance team and with the principals and other departments. Jeff then introduced some of those who are key to the success of the department: Shirley Rochon (Budget Analyst), Gina Zeutenhorst (Accounting Manager), Bev Rogers (Payroll Manager), Jennifer Farmer (Procurement Supervisor), Darla Van Duren (District Accountant), Kim Walker (Finance Coordinator), and Gayla Jenner (Financial Systems Supervisor). Jeff talked about the work of the departments, professional development, ongoing initiatives and professional recognition.   REPORT—FINANCE DEPARTMENT UPDATE
    The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was awarded to Everett Public Schools for the 2005-2006 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) and was presented for the Board’s information (E:111/08). Jeff Moore circulated the plaques received for this award and the one mentioned in the following item. In terms of the CAFR, this is the 20 th consecutive year for Everett to receive this award. Everett is only one of eight districts among the 295 in Washington who receive this honor although some districts do not produce a CAFR. Board member Andrews complimented staff and said she is extremely impressed with the CAFR. It contains a great deal of valuable information. She looks forward to receiving her orientation to the Business & Finance department. Board member Petersen said Business & Finance is an excellent team. Dr. Whitehead commented that the use of technology has improved the efficiency of the work of the department and it was evident throughout tonight’s presentation. The community supported the District in the last two bonds and thus made the furthering of technology possible.  GOV’T FINANCE OFFICERS ASSN’S CERT. OF ACHIEVE-MENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING FOR EPS 2005-2006 CAFR

     

     

    GOV’T FINANCE OFFICERS ASSN’S CERT. OF ACHIEVE-MENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING FOR EPS 2005-2006 CAFR

    (cont’d.)

    The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was awarded to Everett Public Schools for the 2005-2006 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and was presented for the Board’s information (E:112/08).   ASBO INT’L CERT. OF EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING FOR EPS 05-06 COMPRE-HENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL RPT.
    Financial reports were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:113/08). The reports include year-to-date information on revenues and expenditures, General Fund projections, a cash report and an investment summary. Jeff Moore said the projected ending fund balance for this report is $11.6 million which is much the same as has been reported in the last few months and is on track for the future. He then talked about District investments.  FINANCIAL REPORTS AS OF

    12/31/ 07

    The Administration recommended that the tuition for the all-day kindergarten program be set at $2,810 for the 2008-2009 school year, which is an increase of $130 from the previous year (E:114/08). The recommendation was brought to the Board of Directors for first reading, with adoption to be requested at a future meeting. The increase will establish tuition for the cost of the half-day portion of the all-day program that is not provided with basic education funds. Over the past month, District administrators have reviewed the true cost of the all-day kindergarten program in the District. State basic education allocations pay apportionment for a half-day kindergarten program, and those parents who choose to enroll their child in the full-day program pay tuition to reimburse the District for this expense. Upon completion of the Business Office review, it has been computed that the tuition for the 2008-2009 school year should be $2,810 which is an increase of $130, or 4.63 percent, from the 2007-2008 school year.

     

    Jeff reported that Cedar Wood, Forest View, Mill Creek, Monroe, Penny Creek, Silver Firs, View Ridge, Whittier and Woodside Elementaries have all-day kindergarten programs. At Emerson, Jackson, Jefferson and Silver Lake Elementaries, there is not enough interest to have a program, but there are opportunities for participation at other sites for those who want their child to be a part of the all-day kindergarten program. Title I schools, such as Hawthorne, receive full funding of all-day kindergarten.

     

    Board member Andrews asked about the “camping out” aspect of signing up for all-day kindergarten. Area 2 Executive Director Lynn Evans said nowadays a timeline has been established within which families must submit their applications. Then a drawing is held. The District attempts to establish a second section if the interest is there.

      ALL-DAY KINDERGARTEN TUITION—first reading
    ACTION ITEMS

    Kristie Dutton moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda. Sue Cooper seconded the motion.

       

    CONSENT AGENDA

    1)  Personnel Report (revised) (E:115/08);

    2)  Voucher Lists (E:116/08);

    3)   Declaration of Surplus Property (E:117/08);

    4)   Final Acceptance: Hawthorne Elementary School Seismic Upgrades (E:118/08);

    5)   Final Acceptance: Everett Civic Auditorium Upgrades (E:119/08);

    6)   Final Acceptance: Silver Firs Elementary School HVAC Upgrades (E:120/08);

    7)   Approval of Commissioning Report for Eisenhower M.S. Modernization (E:121/08);

    8)   Approval of Commissioning Report for Emerson E.S. Modernization (E:122/08);

    9)   Monetary Gift from Everett High School Blue & Gold Club to Everett High School   in the Amount of $12,000 for the Purpose of Funding Various Classroom Projects,   Materials Needs, Field Trips, etc., for the 2008 School Year (E:123/08);

    10)   Interagency Agreement Between Everett School District (Jackson, Garfield,   Hawthorne & Madison Elementary Schools) and Snohomish Health District for   Dental Health Education and Provision of Dental Sealant Program (E:124/08);

    11)   Contract Amendment for Agreement Between Everett Public Schools and   Snohomish County Human Services Department Regarding Early Childhood   Education & Assistance Program (ECEAP) (E:125/08); and

    12)   Agreement Between Everett Public Schools and Refugee & Immigrant Services   Northwest for the Continuation of Language Translation Services for Specific  Special Education Students (E:126/08).

    The motion carried unanimously.

       

     

     

     

     

     

    CONSENT AGENDA (cont’d.)

    BOARD COMMENTS

    Board member Dutton reminded her Board colleagues and the audience of the Everett Public Schools Foundation annual breakfast that will take place on March 20 @ 7 a.m. She also mentioned that at a recent Rotary meeting, Everett High School principal Catherine Matthews shared a flyer about a Community Reads event. One of the flyers will be included in one of the Board’s future mail packets.

     

    Board member Andrews said she thoroughly enjoyed the WASA/WSSDA legislative conference last weekend. It was a very educational experience and she was pleased to have the opportunity to meet with some of Washington’s senators and representatives.

     

    Board member Petersen said he recently visited Heatherwood Middle School and Emerson Elementary, two of the five schools to which he is “assigned” this year. At Emerson, he learned more about the Make Your Day program and he was very impressed with the behavior of the children in that school. They are a diverse population who were focused and concentrated on their school work. He enjoyed talking to the PE teacher about the changes in the PE program. Cynthia Jones, the principal at Emerson, talked with him about the GLAD program and the successes they are seeing in language acquisition of the ELL students as a result of this program.

     

    President Madsen said the SOSRs she has attended have been wonderful and the work that is going on is exciting. She then noted that last week’s Friday packets for the Board were very large and packed with information. She thanked everyone for all the work they have done across the District. She is looking forward to reviewing the list of diversity activities provided by Dr. Whitehead.

      BOARD

    COMMENTS

     

    With no further comments, President Madsen adjourned the regular meeting at 6:50 p.m.

     

     

    _________________________ __________________________________________

    Carol Whitehead, Secretary Karen Madsen, President

       

     

     

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