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, January 13, 2004, beginning at 4:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 4730 Colby Avenue, Everett, Washington. Those in attendance were Sue Cooper, Kristie Dutton, Karen Madsen, Paul Roberts and Roy Yates.

ADOPTION OF AGENDA
President Dutton called for any recommended changes to the agenda. There were none. With that, Karen Madsen moved for adoption of the agenda. Paul Roberts seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Roy Yates moved for approval of the minutes of the special meeting of December 4, 2003, and the regular meeting of December 9, 2003. Karen Madsen seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS
Superintendent Carol Whitehead commented on last week’s severe weather which caused the closing of District schools on Tuesday and Wednesday. In addition, District offices were closed on Wednesday. The negotiated agreement with the teachers’ union specifies that these days be added onto the end of the school year. Therefore, the new last day of school will be June 17, 2004. Staff have been notified.

In terms of physical damage, District sites fared well during the bad weather. Two or three schools had difficulty with boilers, and the Longfellow building was without heat on Tuesday. A few schools experienced frozen pipes. Dr. Whitehead complimented the maintenance and custodial crews for their extraordinary efforts. They, as well as the transportation department, report to work when others do not. The transportation staff did their usual stellar job, driving the roads to assess whether buses can safely navigate under existing conditions, and providing feedback to District administration to help in making the decision whether to open schools.

The new absence reporting system began Districtwide on January 1, 2004. It was anticipated staff would be able to “ease into” the learning process but, with the snow and ice storm, many questions were generated which prompted an immediate test of the system. Thanks to the efforts of many, the questions were addressed and the system remained operable.

The State auditors are in the District conducting their annual review. When they have completed their work, Dr. Whitehead will ensure the Board receives a report.
SUPT’S COMMENTS
The Everett Community College NewsFlash publication contains an article about local fifth graders visiting the college’s campus for the day. Whittier and Hawthorne Elementary School students were among those who participated in the “I’m Going to College” event. They had lunch on campus and met with counselors to discuss attending college. The event is co-sponsored by Everett Community College and NELA, a Seattle-based not-for-profit agency that works in partnership with schools, banks and other lending institutions to help students continue their education. At the end of the day, the students received a “College Knowledge” certificate, a backpack filled with school supplies and an “I’m Going to College” t-shirt. Prior to their visit to the college, an Everett Community College instructor provided the 5 ^th grade classes with tips about writing newspaper articles. After their visit to the college, students were invited to write an article about their experience. These articles will be judged and top entries will earn prizes. The winning articles will be published.

Next, Dr. Whitehead shared the good news that the Snohomish Health District awarded Monroe Elementary School as “best in category” in the area of School/Industry/ Institution in the 14^th annual Snohomish Health District Food Program Excellence Awards. Food Services Manager Debbie Webber will attend the awards ceremony on February 10 and accept on behalf of Monroe Elementary School.

Dr. Whitehead called on Executive Director for Human Resources Molly Ringo to outline the process and timeline for hiring the principal at Jackson High School to replace retiring principal Fred Dahlem. Advertising for the position will begin tomorrow. Molly shared a draft copy of the recruiting brochure (E:66/04). Other districts are competing for applicants as well, so Everett needs to be aggressive in its advertising efforts. A meeting at Jackson High School is scheduled to gather feedback from the community. The Administration’s goal is to present a personnel recommendation to the Board by mid-March. Shortly afterwards, recruiting for both assistant principal positions will begin. Prior to winter break, the Administration met with JHS staff to discuss the characteristics they envision in their principal. Board member Roberts noted that the quality of the principal recruiting brochure is excellent.

SUPT’S COMMENTS (cont’d.)
Dr. Whitehead read a proclamation from the Governor announcing that January is School Board Recognition Month (attached). She went on to say that the Board members are the leaders in the district and she is honored that they are part of the Everett education system. She then presented a certificate of appreciation to each board member.
After outlining the guidelines for public comment, President Dutton called on the two individuals who completed Public Comment Cards: PUBLIC COMMENT
Steven Ney —Distributed a booklet to the board with the AP/IB Boosters’ goals for an education improvement plan (E:67/04). He cited graduation rankings from The Seattle Times showing Jackson High School with a 61 percent graduation rate, yet schools with the same demographics are in the 80 to 86 percentile. The boosters state that JHS is a “one-size-fits-all” institution of learning; that is, only a specified series of courses are offered. The boosters, on the other hand, recommend a four-tiered program. Students need to be treated as individuals who are motivated and challenged. According to Mr. Ney, students will not do as well on the WASL because they are not motivated. Therefore, the district needs to find ways encourage them, perhaps by using the student treasury to offer rewards. He went on to say that tonight’s handout represents a composite of most of the courses offered in western Washington. He suggested piloting a two-week program for freshmen called, “Where there’s a will, there’s an A,” which teaches students how to take notes, study and plan their time.
Jeff Heckathorn —Commented that because Jackson High School uses a 4x4 schedule, the recent two snow days for the rest of the district amount to four days for JHS.
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
None.
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
The Administration presented information regarding science curriculum and environmental education planning within Everett Public Schools. Executive Director of Curriculum Alignment and Implementation Terry Edwards opened the presentation He described the program as less about memorization of facts and more about hands-on, minds-on analysis with students investigating as a scientist would. Curriculum Specialist Jack McLeod has been working in this area for 1 ½ years and the process continues this year with Curriculum Specialist Bob Sotak and planning for a K-8 adoption at the end of this year. This is not simply a process of purchasing new instructional materials; rather, it integrates professional development, instructional materials and new assessment programs (both formative and summative assessments) through WASL and NCLB (No Child Left Behind) over the next few years.

Using a handout, Bob Sotak led the presentation (E:68/04). The goal of the program is to provide a standards-based high quality science program, using the state science standards, and creating a program geared to build as students go through the system. He outlined the five-year science LASER (Leadership Assistance and Science Education Reform) strategic plan, design and support considerations, assessment, bridging achievement gaps, adopting inquiry-based science instructional materials, a staged implementation process and timelines. It is hoped that at least one-third of the instructional materials will be presented to the Board for adoption this spring.

The timeline involves a three-year rolling adoption/implementation beginning with K-8 science (2003/04–2006/07); then grades 9-10 science adoption/implementation (2004/05-2005/06); and then grades 11-12 science adoption/implementation (2005/06-2006/07). The environmental education piece will be developed this year and needs to include links to science concepts including resources and ecosystems; usage of adjacent parks, wild areas and/or wetlands; and making field trip connections and resource management.

Terry noted that science is a unique program, but has many of the same challenges as any other program. These issues are dealt with piece by piece. Secondly, buying new materials must include professional development to help shape the instruction that staff use with the materials. It is essential that science support materials for experiments and projects be available in an accessible and organized manner. The three-year rolling adoption is important so that one-third of the teachers can receive professional development, thus “growing” the staff over time and balancing costs.

When asked about retaining the work kits at the elementary level, Terry said some may be kept. However, existing kits were developed before current grade level expectations were established and so it will probably be more cost effective in the long run to buy new kits. When asked about protecting the funding over time, Terry replied that a three-year budget will be presented as part of the recommendation for adoption by the Board.

When asked whether there is a substantial difference in costs among the programs, Terry said no. There are costs for materials, but the real expense is in professional development. In terms of professional development, most programs bring in national consultants, similar to the investigations and connective math piece. From this, Everett will train its trainers. Bob further noted that training is one piece of the package to be considered when negotiating with publishers.

Terry said the new materials will be superior to existing District materials which are usually “homegrown” activities or a textbook program. The new materials will be more inquiry-based, hands-on activities geared to the standards. In fact, it has been found that districts implementing these science programs show improved math and reading scores. Thus, it is hoped there will be improvements in the NCLB.

{At this time, it was necessary for Board member Roberts to leave the meeting to keep another appointment.}

PRESENTATION—SCIENCE CURR. & ENVIRON-MENTAL ED. PLANNING

PRESENTATION—SCIENCE CURR. & ENVIRON-MENTAL ED. PLANNING
(cont’d.)
Financial reports were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:69/04). 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 Jeff Riddle reported that the District is in a better position than anticipated six months ago. A higher-than-expected fund balance is projected. However, the challenges of negotiated contract settlements remain. FINANCIAL REPORTS
ACTION ITEMS
Roy Yates moved for approval of the Consent Agenda and Karen Madsen seconded the motion.
Personnel Report (E:70/04);
Voucher Lists (E:71/04);
Proposed New Policy 5155—Infectious Diseases (relating to safeguarding students and employees from the spread of certain infectious diseases) (E:72/04);

4) Letter of Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 & Everett Association of Educational Office Personnel (EAEOP) (E:73/04);
5) 2003-2004 Placement on Professional and Technical Salary Schedule (E;74/04);
6) Interagency Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 (Hawthorne & Madison Elementary Schools) and Snohomish Health District for Dental Health Education and Provision of Dental Sealant Program (E:75/04);

CONSENT AGENDA
7) Interagency Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 and Little Red Schoolhouse, Inc. for Continued Services for the Students, Ages Birth through Two, Residing Within the Boundaries of Everett School District (E:76/04);
8) Approval of Monetary Gift from the Silver Lake Elementary PTA to Silver Lake Elementary School in the Amount of $9,968.19 for the Purchase of Playground Equipment (E:77/04);
9) Authorization to Call for Bids: Gateway Middle School Eight Classroom Addition (E;78/04);
10) Resolution 787: Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 and Highline School District No. 401 (for copiers, duplicators and related services) (Res. 10/04); and
11) Approval of School Administrative Salary Schedule (E:79/04).
The motion carried unanimously.

BOARD COMMENTS
President Dutton commented about the reception held last night in honor of Dr. Whitehead being named as the Washington State Superintendent of the Year. The number of attendees was astounding, and it was gratifying to see the variety of community and staff who came to honor Dr. Whitehead. The walls were beautifully decorated with student artwork. Ms. Dutton complimented Director of Communications Gay Campbell and staff for the fine job they did in coordinating the event.
BOARD COMMENTS
Board member Madsen thanked District staff for their year-round support. Indeed, she said, every month feels like School Board Recognition Month in Everett.

A Board site visit is scheduled for tomorrow to Penny Creek Elementary School, but it may be necessary for some Board members to attend state-of-the-school reviews at that time.

BOARD COMMENTS
(cont’d.)
BOARD ACTION AND/OR BOARD DISCUSSION
At 5:35 p.m., President Dutton recessed the regular meeting into executive session for discussion of personnel. It was announced that the executive session would be of approximately 10 minutes’ duration.

At 5:45 p.m., President Dutton re-convened the regular meeting and adjourned immediately.
EXECUTIVE SESSION--PERSONNEL
_______________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Kristie Dutton, President

The Board of Directors of Everett Public Schools, Snohomish County, Washington, held a regular Board meeting on Tuesday, January 13, 2004, beginning at 4:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 4730 Colby Avenue, Everett, Washington. Those in attendance were Sue Cooper, Kristie Dutton, Karen Madsen, Paul Roberts and Roy Yates.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA President Dutton called for any recommended changes to the agenda. There were none. With that, Karen Madsen moved for adoption of the agenda. Paul Roberts seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		ADOPTION OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Roy Yates moved for approval of the minutes of the special meeting of December 4, 2003, and the regular meeting of December 9, 2003. Karen Madsen seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS Superintendent Carol Whitehead commented on last week’s severe weather which caused the closing of District schools on Tuesday and Wednesday. In addition, District offices were closed on Wednesday. The negotiated agreement with the teachers’ union specifies that these days be added onto the end of the school year. Therefore, the new last day of school will be June 17, 2004. Staff have been notified. In terms of physical damage, District sites fared well during the bad weather. Two or three schools had difficulty with boilers, and the Longfellow building was without heat on Tuesday. A few schools experienced frozen pipes. Dr. Whitehead complimented the maintenance and custodial crews for their extraordinary efforts. They, as well as the transportation department, report to work when others do not. The transportation staff did their usual stellar job, driving the roads to assess whether buses can safely navigate under existing conditions, and providing feedback to District administration to help in making the decision whether to open schools. The new absence reporting system began Districtwide on January 1, 2004. It was anticipated staff would be able to “ease into” the learning process but, with the snow and ice storm, many questions were generated which prompted an immediate test of the system. Thanks to the efforts of many, the questions were addressed and the system remained operable. The State auditors are in the District conducting their annual review. When they have completed their work, Dr. Whitehead will ensure the Board receives a report.		SUPT’S COMMENTS
The Everett Community College NewsFlash publication contains an article about local fifth graders visiting the college’s campus for the day. Whittier and Hawthorne Elementary School students were among those who participated in the “I’m Going to College” event. They had lunch on campus and met with counselors to discuss attending college. The event is co-sponsored by Everett Community College and NELA, a Seattle-based not-for-profit agency that works in partnership with schools, banks and other lending institutions to help students continue their education. At the end of the day, the students received a “College Knowledge” certificate, a backpack filled with school supplies and an “I’m Going to College” t-shirt. Prior to their visit to the college, an Everett Community College instructor provided the 5 ^th grade classes with tips about writing newspaper articles. After their visit to the college, students were invited to write an article about their experience. These articles will be judged and top entries will earn prizes. The winning articles will be published. Next, Dr. Whitehead shared the good news that the Snohomish Health District awarded Monroe Elementary School as “best in category” in the area of School/Industry/ Institution in the 14^th annual Snohomish Health District Food Program Excellence Awards. Food Services Manager Debbie Webber will attend the awards ceremony on February 10 and accept on behalf of Monroe Elementary School. Dr. Whitehead called on Executive Director for Human Resources Molly Ringo to outline the process and timeline for hiring the principal at Jackson High School to replace retiring principal Fred Dahlem. Advertising for the position will begin tomorrow. Molly shared a draft copy of the recruiting brochure (E:66/04). Other districts are competing for applicants as well, so Everett needs to be aggressive in its advertising efforts. A meeting at Jackson High School is scheduled to gather feedback from the community. The Administration’s goal is to present a personnel recommendation to the Board by mid-March. Shortly afterwards, recruiting for both assistant principal positions will begin. Prior to winter break, the Administration met with JHS staff to discuss the characteristics they envision in their principal. Board member Roberts noted that the quality of the principal recruiting brochure is excellent.		SUPT’S COMMENTS (cont’d.)
Dr. Whitehead read a proclamation from the Governor announcing that January is School Board Recognition Month (attached). She went on to say that the Board members are the leaders in the district and she is honored that they are part of the Everett education system. She then presented a certificate of appreciation to each board member.
After outlining the guidelines for public comment, President Dutton called on the two individuals who completed Public Comment Cards:		PUBLIC COMMENT
Steven Ney —Distributed a booklet to the board with the AP/IB Boosters’ goals for an education improvement plan (E:67/04). He cited graduation rankings from The Seattle Times showing Jackson High School with a 61 percent graduation rate, yet schools with the same demographics are in the 80 to 86 percentile. The boosters state that JHS is a “one-size-fits-all” institution of learning; that is, only a specified series of courses are offered. The boosters, on the other hand, recommend a four-tiered program. Students need to be treated as individuals who are motivated and challenged. According to Mr. Ney, students will not do as well on the WASL because they are not motivated. Therefore, the district needs to find ways encourage them, perhaps by using the student treasury to offer rewards. He went on to say that tonight’s handout represents a composite of most of the courses offered in western Washington. He suggested piloting a two-week program for freshmen called, “Where there’s a will, there’s an A,” which teaches students how to take notes, study and plan their time.
Jeff Heckathorn —Commented that because Jackson High School uses a 4x4 schedule, the recent two snow days for the rest of the district amount to four days for JHS.
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES None.		RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION The Administration presented information regarding science curriculum and environmental education planning within Everett Public Schools. Executive Director of Curriculum Alignment and Implementation Terry Edwards opened the presentation He described the program as less about memorization of facts and more about hands-on, minds-on analysis with students investigating as a scientist would. Curriculum Specialist Jack McLeod has been working in this area for 1 ½ years and the process continues this year with Curriculum Specialist Bob Sotak and planning for a K-8 adoption at the end of this year. This is not simply a process of purchasing new instructional materials; rather, it integrates professional development, instructional materials and new assessment programs (both formative and summative assessments) through WASL and NCLB (No Child Left Behind) over the next few years. Using a handout, Bob Sotak led the presentation (E:68/04). The goal of the program is to provide a standards-based high quality science program, using the state science standards, and creating a program geared to build as students go through the system. He outlined the five-year science LASER (Leadership Assistance and Science Education Reform) strategic plan, design and support considerations, assessment, bridging achievement gaps, adopting inquiry-based science instructional materials, a staged implementation process and timelines. It is hoped that at least one-third of the instructional materials will be presented to the Board for adoption this spring. The timeline involves a three-year rolling adoption/implementation beginning with K-8 science (2003/04–2006/07); then grades 9-10 science adoption/implementation (2004/05-2005/06); and then grades 11-12 science adoption/implementation (2005/06-2006/07). The environmental education piece will be developed this year and needs to include links to science concepts including resources and ecosystems; usage of adjacent parks, wild areas and/or wetlands; and making field trip connections and resource management. Terry noted that science is a unique program, but has many of the same challenges as any other program. These issues are dealt with piece by piece. Secondly, buying new materials must include professional development to help shape the instruction that staff use with the materials. It is essential that science support materials for experiments and projects be available in an accessible and organized manner. The three-year rolling adoption is important so that one-third of the teachers can receive professional development, thus “growing” the staff over time and balancing costs. When asked about retaining the work kits at the elementary level, Terry said some may be kept. However, existing kits were developed before current grade level expectations were established and so it will probably be more cost effective in the long run to buy new kits. When asked about protecting the funding over time, Terry replied that a three-year budget will be presented as part of the recommendation for adoption by the Board. When asked whether there is a substantial difference in costs among the programs, Terry said no. There are costs for materials, but the real expense is in professional development. In terms of professional development, most programs bring in national consultants, similar to the investigations and connective math piece. From this, Everett will train its trainers. Bob further noted that training is one piece of the package to be considered when negotiating with publishers. Terry said the new materials will be superior to existing District materials which are usually “homegrown” activities or a textbook program. The new materials will be more inquiry-based, hands-on activities geared to the standards. In fact, it has been found that districts implementing these science programs show improved math and reading scores. Thus, it is hoped there will be improvements in the NCLB. {At this time, it was necessary for Board member Roberts to leave the meeting to keep another appointment.}		PRESENTATION—SCIENCE CURR. & ENVIRON-MENTAL ED. PLANNING PRESENTATION—SCIENCE CURR. & ENVIRON-MENTAL ED. PLANNING (cont’d.)
Financial reports were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:69/04). 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 Jeff Riddle reported that the District is in a better position than anticipated six months ago. A higher-than-expected fund balance is projected. However, the challenges of negotiated contract settlements remain.		FINANCIAL REPORTS
ACTION ITEMS Roy Yates moved for approval of the Consent Agenda and Karen Madsen seconded the motion. Personnel Report (E:70/04); Voucher Lists (E:71/04); Proposed New Policy 5155—Infectious Diseases (relating to safeguarding students and employees from the spread of certain infectious diseases) (E:72/04); 4) Letter of Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 & Everett Association of Educational Office Personnel (EAEOP) (E:73/04); 5) 2003-2004 Placement on Professional and Technical Salary Schedule (E;74/04); 6) Interagency Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 (Hawthorne & Madison Elementary Schools) and Snohomish Health District for Dental Health Education and Provision of Dental Sealant Program (E:75/04);		CONSENT AGENDA
7) Interagency Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 and Little Red Schoolhouse, Inc. for Continued Services for the Students, Ages Birth through Two, Residing Within the Boundaries of Everett School District (E:76/04); 8) Approval of Monetary Gift from the Silver Lake Elementary PTA to Silver Lake Elementary School in the Amount of $9,968.19 for the Purchase of Playground Equipment (E:77/04); 9) Authorization to Call for Bids: Gateway Middle School Eight Classroom Addition (E;78/04); 10) Resolution 787: Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 and Highline School District No. 401 (for copiers, duplicators and related services) (Res. 10/04); and 11) Approval of School Administrative Salary Schedule (E:79/04). The motion carried unanimously.
BOARD COMMENTS President Dutton commented about the reception held last night in honor of Dr. Whitehead being named as the Washington State Superintendent of the Year. The number of attendees was astounding, and it was gratifying to see the variety of community and staff who came to honor Dr. Whitehead. The walls were beautifully decorated with student artwork. Ms. Dutton complimented Director of Communications Gay Campbell and staff for the fine job they did in coordinating the event.		BOARD COMMENTS
Board member Madsen thanked District staff for their year-round support. Indeed, she said, every month feels like School Board Recognition Month in Everett. A Board site visit is scheduled for tomorrow to Penny Creek Elementary School, but it may be necessary for some Board members to attend state-of-the-school reviews at that time.		BOARD COMMENTS (cont’d.)
BOARD ACTION AND/OR BOARD DISCUSSION At 5:35 p.m., President Dutton recessed the regular meeting into executive session for discussion of personnel. It was announced that the executive session would be of approximately 10 minutes’ duration. At 5:45 p.m., President Dutton re-convened the regular meeting and adjourned immediately.		EXECUTIVE SESSION--PERSONNEL
_______________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Kristie Dutton, President