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, June 8, 2004, beginning at 4:30 p.m., in Conference Rooms C1 & C2 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. Superintendent Whitehead noted that the Board would be presented with a revised personnel report. With that, Paul Roberts moved for adoption of the revised agenda. Roy Yates 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 May 25, 2004. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS
Dr. Whitehead opened her comments by noting that the recommended names to fill the positions of Director II and Executive Director for Special Education appear on today’s Personnel Report. They are Amy McCue (Director II) and Kristine McDowell (Executive Director). Kristine was in attendance at tonight’s meeting. She is currently the Director of Special Education and Special Programs in Filer, Idaho. She began as a paraprofessional and became a consulting special education teacher. She is a successful grant writer. While in Filer, she developed two programs: a curriculum-based assessment for all elementary students; and combined Title I and special education summer resources to provide additional instruction for students who were below proficiency. She received her master’s degree in special education from Idaho State University along with a special education administrative certificate. She and her husband, Scott, have two daughters, and consider coming to Everett as a return to their roots in the Northwest.

Three of Everett’s four graduation ceremonies will be held for the first time in the new Everett Events Center—they are Everett, Cascade and Jackson High Schools. Approximately 980 graduates will cross the stage this week. Three graduates completed their work via the online homeschool program and are graduating with Sequoia High School students.

SUPT’S COMMENTS
Some students have completed their culminating exhibitions (CE), but will not be graduating because they are credit deficient. Other students need to complete credits and/or their CE during the summer. For these students, new options are available. Executive Director of Curriculum Alignment and Implementation Terry Edwards reported that these new offerings include: Summer School English 11; Argumentative Paper Tutorial; Senior Seminar Class; and Senior Seminar Tutorial. He outlined the guidelines and costs for admission to each class. Summer graduation exercises will take place on August 10, at 7 p.m., at the Everett High School Little Theater.
Dr. Whitehead distributed copies of the just-printed edition of Everett Schools (E:180/04). It will be the final one for the year.

The 42^nd Annual Walsh-Platt Awards ceremony was held recently. Sponsored by community members and judged by a panel of non-partisan community members, this popular event honors scholar athletes in the District. This year’s two winners were from Everett High School. Although it is unusual for both winners to be from the same school, research indicates the awards have been fairly evenly spread over the years. In closing, Dr. Whitehead said she is continually impressed with the high caliber of Everett’s students.

SUPT’S COMMENTS (cont’d.)
PUBLIC COMMENT
President Dutton called on the individual who had submitted a public comment card:
John Schmied —from Skyview Junior High in Northshore School District. He spoke in support of the Brightwater Community Environmental Education Center. He shared a handout outlining the proposal and showing a map of the site (E:181/04). He is seeking District support in the form of a resolution similar to those adopted by Northshore and Lake Washington School Districts.
PUBLIC COMMENT
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
Director of Communications Gay Campbell reported that five retirees were on hand tonight. There are others who appear on tonight’s Personnel Report, but have been invited to future Board meetings. Honorees in attendance were:
Pat Dalberg —secretary at Evergreen Middle School—has been in education for 18 years, 16 of them in Everett. Evergreen Middle School principal Joyce Stewart commented, saying that Pat is a meticulous, accurate and dedicated worker, who treats the safety of children as a priority. Pat said it has been a pleasure working in Everett.
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
Chris McNally —counselor at Eisenhower Middle School—has 30 years in education, 17 of them in Everett. Eisenhower principal David Jones commented that Chris is an outstanding worker who advocates for children and makes a point of learning the details of each child in order to know their social structure. Chris thanked everyone and said Eisenhower is a great place to work. She acknowledged her many friends and colleagues, including her husband, Jim.
David Dailey —teacher at Cascade High School—has 31 years in education. CHS principal Jim Dean spoke, saying that Dave is a person with great ideas who embraces change and has successful students. He has enjoyed working with Dave and will miss his institutional wisdom. David spoke briefly and commended Jim for his valuable guidance. He thanked the Board for the opportunity to work in Everett.
Jeff Solomon —teacher at Sequoia High School, and has also worked at Cascade and Everett High Schools—has 30 years in education. In the absence of Sequoia principal Joanne Fabian, CHS principal Jim Dean commented, saying Jeff is a native of Everett who graduated from EHS. Over the years, Jeff has shared his talents as a teacher and a coach. He is especially adept at working with youngsters who were challenged. He recognizes their talents and abilities and helps them grow. Jeff spoke, introducing his sister Luanna, and wife Yvonne. He expressed his thanks to the Board for recognizing him, and said his has been a challenging and gratifying career. His future plans include fishing, golfing and reading.
Fred Dahlem —principal of Jackson High School—has over 31 years in education. Executive Director for Area 2 Lynn Evans spoke, saying that Fred worked at Inglemoor, Woodinville and Coupeville High Schools and, finally, at Jackson High School. Lynn described Fred as a calm, quiet person who accepts the challenges and working conditions associated with being in a large high school. He recognizes the trials of teenagers and has spent time as a principal tutoring students. He has a high level of commitment to the PTSA. Following the completion of the BERC report, Fred led a gracious, accepting and positive response of staff to its results. While at Jackson High School, Fred has seen its WASL scores rise and staff members have “stepped up to the plate” in offering AP classes. Fred thanked Everett Public Schools for the opportunity to work with wonderful students and a hardworking, dedicated staff.
President Dutton congratulated the retirees, thanked them for their dedication to the children of Everett Public Schools and presented each with a memento crystal apple.

RECOGNITION OF RETIREES (CONT’D.)
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
The attached proposed policy 4215—Parent Involvement for Title I Schools, was provided to the Board of Directors for first reading, with approval to be requested at a future Board meeting (E:182/04). Director of Communications Gay Campbell reported that this is a new policy and has been developed in accordance with the requirements of state law. An accompanying procedure has also been written.

PROPOSED POLICY 4215— PARENT INVOLVEMENT FOR TITLE I SCHOOLS—1^st Reading
Executive Director for Area 1 Jim McNally presented the District’s middle school athletic program review recommendation (E:183/04). Jim followed a PowerPoint presentation. He listed the members of the Middle School Athletic Program Review committee, which included two school Board members (Roy Yates and Kristie Dutton) who served as observers; showed the meeting dates and agendas; indicated the design model considerations; listed the final recommendations; and defined the middle school philosophy. Final recommendations address: interscholastic athletics; intramural athletics; participation fees; periodic reviews; intramural pilot program; and facility use. Jim also shared a copy of a draft middle school athletic handbook (attached).

When asked about the charge for participation fees, Jim replied that research indicates a range of $30 to $100 per season per sport is normal. Everett would probably recommend something in the lower range. In addition, other school districts’ structures offer a family fee and an annual fee, so those are possibilities for Everett. At a future date, a fee structure for the middle and high school levels will be presented to the Board for the 2005-2006 school year.

In terms of partnerships, Jim said the District already collaborates with agencies such as the YMCA and the Boys & Girls Club; these organizations are interested in providing support. Jim said committee discussions involved many “what-ifs,” and it appears there are existing relationships that can continue to be fostered in some unique and creative ways. However, the District would seek legal counsel before making any commitments. Board member Roberts expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the committee and encouraged the tie-in with other programs in the District’s absence from an interscholastic athletic program.

Dr. Whitehead said that the Administration is not presenting the recommendations for Board approval tonight; rather, as negotiations proceed, the Administration felt it important to share the information with the Board, and notify other teams in the league. The committee’s recommendation will be part of a larger overall report on the athletic program review.

Board member Yates reported that serving on the committee was an enjoyable experience. Members were primarily those who are actually doing the work. They understand the budget implications, but they also value student participation. The committee was very dedicated, interactive and had the best interests of children at heart. Jim was very professional and did an outstanding job of directing participation.

When asked to discuss the two-tiered nature of interscholastic and intramural opportunities, Jim said the existing interscholastic model would have a shortened season. An additional layer would be added of intramural programs for every grade level and for as many sports depending upon the interests of students. The intramural portion of the program would be “non-cut” —every student can be involved.

When asked whether activity buses would be funded, Jim replied that that is done now through the ASB fund, but a savings would be realized due to the shortened season and the fact that travel would be only within the District. Activity buses would continue to run for other activities such as after-school study clubs as well as intramural sports.

When asked whether there would be similar or different fees based on the levels of participation, Jim said the expectation is that there would be a graduated fee schedule. However, that work remains to be done. The committee believes there are ways to implement an intramural program at low cost. Scheduling will be paramount.

President Dutton said that the committee wanted to ensure that whatever was offered was equitable at all of the schools.
PRESENTATION—Middle School Athletic Program Recommendation

PRESENTATION—Middle School Athletic Program Recommendation
(cont’d.)
The attached Washington State Auditor’s Audit Reports for the period September 1, 2002, through August 31, 2003, were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:184/04). Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations Jeff Riddle reported that this is an excellent and “clean” audit. He commended Accounting Manager Gina Zeutenhorst and staff. They had a good working relationship with the state auditors. Dr. Whitehead commented that there has been a concerted District effort among the Leadership Team members and others to pay close attention to financial details, train clerical staff, etc., and conduct extensive monitoring, all of which contributed to the positive audit. Lynn Evans noted that schools frequently comment about the supportive and respectful assistance the Business Office staff provides to help the schools excel.

Gina commented that the District has qualified as a low-risk auditee which means the auditors spend less time on Everett’s audit, resulting in a lower audit cost (usual bills are approximately $40,000). Gina credited District Accountant Darla Van Duren and others in the Business Office for their hard work and attention to detail.

Board member Roberts acknowledged the degree of seriousness associated with audits. If work is not done well, it is revealed in an audit. He commended staff and suggested that news of this clean audit be communicated to the public.
WA STATE AUDITOR’S AUDIT RPTS: 9/1/02-8/31/03
ACTION ITEMS
Paul Roberts moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda and Sue Cooper seconded the motion.
Personnel Report (Revised) (E:185/04);
Voucher Lists (E:186/04);
Proposed School Board Meetings Schedule for 2004-2005 (E:187/04);
Declaration of Surplus Property (E:188/04)
Award of Contract: Digital Cameras & Projectors with Related Services (E:189/04)
Selection of Architect for the New Bus Facility & the Everett High School Parking Lot Expansion (E:190/04).

The motion carried unanimously.

CONSENT AGENDA
The Administration recommended the Board of Directors adopt Resolution 804 authorizing the District’s petition to the City of Everett and Snohomish County for the vacation of portions of 25^th Avenue S.E. in the vicinity of Eisenhower Middle School, and to negotiate for the property to be vacated (Res. 25/04). The District is interested in acquiring ownership of portions of 25^th Avenue S.E. in conjunction with an upcoming project to modernize Eisenhower Middle School. This acquisition would enable the District to provide a new secondary access driveway to the school for vehicles and pedestrians in addition to the existing main access driveway. The District RESOLUTION 804: Authorization to Petition the City of Evt & Sno. Cty. for Vacation of Portions of 25^th Ave. S.E. in Vicinity of Eisenhower M.S., & Negotiate for the Property to be Vacated
would also need to acquire ownership, from two adjacent property owners, of the interest in portions of the property to be vacated. Director of Facilities and Planning Mike Gunn distributed a drawing of the area of interest. He said the District will offer to pay fair market value for the property. The two neighboring property owners have agreed to sign quit claim deeds.

When asked whether there have been questions about trail or easement access, Mike replied that the District has checked with the City and there is not an approved walkway plan for that area. No other discussions on this topic have occurred recently. Official comments from the City would come in the form of their staff report in response to the

RESOLUTION 804: Authorization to Petition the City of Evt & Sno. Cty. for Vacation of Portions of 25^th Ave. S.E. in Vicinity of Eisenhower M.S., & Negotiate for the Property to be Vacated
(cont’d.)
District’s project application. The District will work with the City to avoid having, as part of the staff report, the requirement that there be a public walkway through the site.

Board member Madsen asked whether access to the school via the yellow area of the map will continue to be available. Mike said yes and, in fact, there will be improved access.

When asked how fair market value is derived, Mike said certified appraisers consider the value of the property before and after the vacation of the right-of-way. They also review comparable sales and sometimes use an income approach.

Board member Roberts noted that, even though he is an employee of the County, he believes he would not have a problem voting on this item. The Board had no objection.

With no further discussion, Paul Roberts moved to adopt the aforementioned Resolution 804. Roy Yates seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

BOARD COMMENTS
Board member Roberts said he is looking forward to the graduations this week. President Dutton echoed his remarks, noting that her daughter is graduating from Everett High School.
BOARD COMMENTS

BOARD ACTION AND/OR BOARD DISCUSSION
President Dutton recessed the regular meeting at 6:10 p.m. so that the Administration could conduct a study session concerning the District’s Strategic Plan goals (E:191/04).

Dr. Whitehead opened the study session by referring to a recent article in The Enterprise concerning the District’s online homeschool program (attached). A copy will be included in the Board’s Friday packet. She then distributed and reviewed a three-page summary representing the End-of-Year Report for the 2003-2004 Strategic Plan.

STUDY SESSION—STRATEGIC PLAN
GOALS
The study session continued with a review of the 2003-2004 End-of-Year Report of Strategic Plan Progress. Next came a review of the draft 2004-2005 Strategic Plan. Before being presented to the Board, the document was reviewed by the Superintendent’s Cabinet and the Superintendent’s Leadership Team (during which Board members participated); finalized by the Superintendent’s Cabinet; and then it was reviewed by members from the 10-year Strategic Plan review committee. Karst noted that a number of past strategic activities are no longer shown on this document because they are embedded within the Strategic Plan.

At the conclusion of tonight’s review, Dr. Whitehead invited the Board’s questions, comments, changes, etc. Board approval of the plan will be requested at the August 23 Board meeting.

In closing, Dr. Whitehead said she is proud of this team and the amazing work they have done this year. The state-of-the-school reviews showed that the Strategic Plan is actually being implemented in the schools.

President Dutton said it is clear that teachers are taking ownership of the Strategic Plan. Board member Cooper concurred and said it is exciting to hear teachers refer to the Strategic Plan as it drives the work in the schools and classrooms. Board member Madsen said it is astonishing that so few people can do so much.

With no further items, President Dutton adjourned the regular meeting at 8:05 p.m.

STUDY SESSION—STRATEGIC PLAN
GOALS (CONT’D.)
_______________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Kristie Dutton, President

The Board of Directors of Everett Public Schools, Snohomish County, Washington, held a regular Board meeting on Tuesday, June 8, 2004, beginning at 4:30 p.m., in Conference Rooms C1 & C2 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. Superintendent Whitehead noted that the Board would be presented with a revised personnel report. With that, Paul Roberts moved for adoption of the revised agenda. Roy Yates 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 May 25, 2004. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS Dr. Whitehead opened her comments by noting that the recommended names to fill the positions of Director II and Executive Director for Special Education appear on today’s Personnel Report. They are Amy McCue (Director II) and Kristine McDowell (Executive Director). Kristine was in attendance at tonight’s meeting. She is currently the Director of Special Education and Special Programs in Filer, Idaho. She began as a paraprofessional and became a consulting special education teacher. She is a successful grant writer. While in Filer, she developed two programs: a curriculum-based assessment for all elementary students; and combined Title I and special education summer resources to provide additional instruction for students who were below proficiency. She received her master’s degree in special education from Idaho State University along with a special education administrative certificate. She and her husband, Scott, have two daughters, and consider coming to Everett as a return to their roots in the Northwest. Three of Everett’s four graduation ceremonies will be held for the first time in the new Everett Events Center—they are Everett, Cascade and Jackson High Schools. Approximately 980 graduates will cross the stage this week. Three graduates completed their work via the online homeschool program and are graduating with Sequoia High School students.		SUPT’S COMMENTS
Some students have completed their culminating exhibitions (CE), but will not be graduating because they are credit deficient. Other students need to complete credits and/or their CE during the summer. For these students, new options are available. Executive Director of Curriculum Alignment and Implementation Terry Edwards reported that these new offerings include: Summer School English 11; Argumentative Paper Tutorial; Senior Seminar Class; and Senior Seminar Tutorial. He outlined the guidelines and costs for admission to each class. Summer graduation exercises will take place on August 10, at 7 p.m., at the Everett High School Little Theater.
Dr. Whitehead distributed copies of the just-printed edition of Everett Schools (E:180/04). It will be the final one for the year. The 42^nd Annual Walsh-Platt Awards ceremony was held recently. Sponsored by community members and judged by a panel of non-partisan community members, this popular event honors scholar athletes in the District. This year’s two winners were from Everett High School. Although it is unusual for both winners to be from the same school, research indicates the awards have been fairly evenly spread over the years. In closing, Dr. Whitehead said she is continually impressed with the high caliber of Everett’s students.		SUPT’S COMMENTS (cont’d.)
PUBLIC COMMENT President Dutton called on the individual who had submitted a public comment card: John Schmied —from Skyview Junior High in Northshore School District. He spoke in support of the Brightwater Community Environmental Education Center. He shared a handout outlining the proposal and showing a map of the site (E:181/04). He is seeking District support in the form of a resolution similar to those adopted by Northshore and Lake Washington School Districts.		PUBLIC COMMENT
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES Director of Communications Gay Campbell reported that five retirees were on hand tonight. There are others who appear on tonight’s Personnel Report, but have been invited to future Board meetings. Honorees in attendance were: Pat Dalberg —secretary at Evergreen Middle School—has been in education for 18 years, 16 of them in Everett. Evergreen Middle School principal Joyce Stewart commented, saying that Pat is a meticulous, accurate and dedicated worker, who treats the safety of children as a priority. Pat said it has been a pleasure working in Everett.		RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
Chris McNally —counselor at Eisenhower Middle School—has 30 years in education, 17 of them in Everett. Eisenhower principal David Jones commented that Chris is an outstanding worker who advocates for children and makes a point of learning the details of each child in order to know their social structure. Chris thanked everyone and said Eisenhower is a great place to work. She acknowledged her many friends and colleagues, including her husband, Jim. David Dailey —teacher at Cascade High School—has 31 years in education. CHS principal Jim Dean spoke, saying that Dave is a person with great ideas who embraces change and has successful students. He has enjoyed working with Dave and will miss his institutional wisdom. David spoke briefly and commended Jim for his valuable guidance. He thanked the Board for the opportunity to work in Everett. Jeff Solomon —teacher at Sequoia High School, and has also worked at Cascade and Everett High Schools—has 30 years in education. In the absence of Sequoia principal Joanne Fabian, CHS principal Jim Dean commented, saying Jeff is a native of Everett who graduated from EHS. Over the years, Jeff has shared his talents as a teacher and a coach. He is especially adept at working with youngsters who were challenged. He recognizes their talents and abilities and helps them grow. Jeff spoke, introducing his sister Luanna, and wife Yvonne. He expressed his thanks to the Board for recognizing him, and said his has been a challenging and gratifying career. His future plans include fishing, golfing and reading. Fred Dahlem —principal of Jackson High School—has over 31 years in education. Executive Director for Area 2 Lynn Evans spoke, saying that Fred worked at Inglemoor, Woodinville and Coupeville High Schools and, finally, at Jackson High School. Lynn described Fred as a calm, quiet person who accepts the challenges and working conditions associated with being in a large high school. He recognizes the trials of teenagers and has spent time as a principal tutoring students. He has a high level of commitment to the PTSA. Following the completion of the BERC report, Fred led a gracious, accepting and positive response of staff to its results. While at Jackson High School, Fred has seen its WASL scores rise and staff members have “stepped up to the plate” in offering AP classes. Fred thanked Everett Public Schools for the opportunity to work with wonderful students and a hardworking, dedicated staff. President Dutton congratulated the retirees, thanked them for their dedication to the children of Everett Public Schools and presented each with a memento crystal apple.		RECOGNITION OF RETIREES (CONT’D.)
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION The attached proposed policy 4215—Parent Involvement for Title I Schools, was provided to the Board of Directors for first reading, with approval to be requested at a future Board meeting (E:182/04). Director of Communications Gay Campbell reported that this is a new policy and has been developed in accordance with the requirements of state law. An accompanying procedure has also been written.		PROPOSED POLICY 4215— PARENT INVOLVEMENT FOR TITLE I SCHOOLS—1^st Reading
Executive Director for Area 1 Jim McNally presented the District’s middle school athletic program review recommendation (E:183/04). Jim followed a PowerPoint presentation. He listed the members of the Middle School Athletic Program Review committee, which included two school Board members (Roy Yates and Kristie Dutton) who served as observers; showed the meeting dates and agendas; indicated the design model considerations; listed the final recommendations; and defined the middle school philosophy. Final recommendations address: interscholastic athletics; intramural athletics; participation fees; periodic reviews; intramural pilot program; and facility use. Jim also shared a copy of a draft middle school athletic handbook (attached). When asked about the charge for participation fees, Jim replied that research indicates a range of $30 to $100 per season per sport is normal. Everett would probably recommend something in the lower range. In addition, other school districts’ structures offer a family fee and an annual fee, so those are possibilities for Everett. At a future date, a fee structure for the middle and high school levels will be presented to the Board for the 2005-2006 school year. In terms of partnerships, Jim said the District already collaborates with agencies such as the YMCA and the Boys & Girls Club; these organizations are interested in providing support. Jim said committee discussions involved many “what-ifs,” and it appears there are existing relationships that can continue to be fostered in some unique and creative ways. However, the District would seek legal counsel before making any commitments. Board member Roberts expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the committee and encouraged the tie-in with other programs in the District’s absence from an interscholastic athletic program. Dr. Whitehead said that the Administration is not presenting the recommendations for Board approval tonight; rather, as negotiations proceed, the Administration felt it important to share the information with the Board, and notify other teams in the league. The committee’s recommendation will be part of a larger overall report on the athletic program review. Board member Yates reported that serving on the committee was an enjoyable experience. Members were primarily those who are actually doing the work. They understand the budget implications, but they also value student participation. The committee was very dedicated, interactive and had the best interests of children at heart. Jim was very professional and did an outstanding job of directing participation. When asked to discuss the two-tiered nature of interscholastic and intramural opportunities, Jim said the existing interscholastic model would have a shortened season. An additional layer would be added of intramural programs for every grade level and for as many sports depending upon the interests of students. The intramural portion of the program would be “non-cut” —every student can be involved. When asked whether activity buses would be funded, Jim replied that that is done now through the ASB fund, but a savings would be realized due to the shortened season and the fact that travel would be only within the District. Activity buses would continue to run for other activities such as after-school study clubs as well as intramural sports. When asked whether there would be similar or different fees based on the levels of participation, Jim said the expectation is that there would be a graduated fee schedule. However, that work remains to be done. The committee believes there are ways to implement an intramural program at low cost. Scheduling will be paramount. President Dutton said that the committee wanted to ensure that whatever was offered was equitable at all of the schools.		PRESENTATION—Middle School Athletic Program Recommendation PRESENTATION—Middle School Athletic Program Recommendation (cont’d.)
The attached Washington State Auditor’s Audit Reports for the period September 1, 2002, through August 31, 2003, were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:184/04). Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations Jeff Riddle reported that this is an excellent and “clean” audit. He commended Accounting Manager Gina Zeutenhorst and staff. They had a good working relationship with the state auditors. Dr. Whitehead commented that there has been a concerted District effort among the Leadership Team members and others to pay close attention to financial details, train clerical staff, etc., and conduct extensive monitoring, all of which contributed to the positive audit. Lynn Evans noted that schools frequently comment about the supportive and respectful assistance the Business Office staff provides to help the schools excel. Gina commented that the District has qualified as a low-risk auditee which means the auditors spend less time on Everett’s audit, resulting in a lower audit cost (usual bills are approximately $40,000). Gina credited District Accountant Darla Van Duren and others in the Business Office for their hard work and attention to detail. Board member Roberts acknowledged the degree of seriousness associated with audits. If work is not done well, it is revealed in an audit. He commended staff and suggested that news of this clean audit be communicated to the public.		WA STATE AUDITOR’S AUDIT RPTS: 9/1/02-8/31/03
ACTION ITEMS Paul Roberts moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda and Sue Cooper seconded the motion. Personnel Report (Revised) (E:185/04); Voucher Lists (E:186/04); Proposed School Board Meetings Schedule for 2004-2005 (E:187/04); Declaration of Surplus Property (E:188/04) Award of Contract: Digital Cameras & Projectors with Related Services (E:189/04) Selection of Architect for the New Bus Facility & the Everett High School Parking Lot Expansion (E:190/04). The motion carried unanimously.		CONSENT AGENDA
The Administration recommended the Board of Directors adopt Resolution 804 authorizing the District’s petition to the City of Everett and Snohomish County for the vacation of portions of 25^th Avenue S.E. in the vicinity of Eisenhower Middle School, and to negotiate for the property to be vacated (Res. 25/04). The District is interested in acquiring ownership of portions of 25^th Avenue S.E. in conjunction with an upcoming project to modernize Eisenhower Middle School. This acquisition would enable the District to provide a new secondary access driveway to the school for vehicles and pedestrians in addition to the existing main access driveway. The District		RESOLUTION 804: Authorization to Petition the City of Evt & Sno. Cty. for Vacation of Portions of 25^th Ave. S.E. in Vicinity of Eisenhower M.S., & Negotiate for the Property to be Vacated
would also need to acquire ownership, from two adjacent property owners, of the interest in portions of the property to be vacated. Director of Facilities and Planning Mike Gunn distributed a drawing of the area of interest. He said the District will offer to pay fair market value for the property. The two neighboring property owners have agreed to sign quit claim deeds. When asked whether there have been questions about trail or easement access, Mike replied that the District has checked with the City and there is not an approved walkway plan for that area. No other discussions on this topic have occurred recently. Official comments from the City would come in the form of their staff report in response to the		RESOLUTION 804: Authorization to Petition the City of Evt & Sno. Cty. for Vacation of Portions of 25^th Ave. S.E. in Vicinity of Eisenhower M.S., & Negotiate for the Property to be Vacated (cont’d.)
District’s project application. The District will work with the City to avoid having, as part of the staff report, the requirement that there be a public walkway through the site. Board member Madsen asked whether access to the school via the yellow area of the map will continue to be available. Mike said yes and, in fact, there will be improved access. When asked how fair market value is derived, Mike said certified appraisers consider the value of the property before and after the vacation of the right-of-way. They also review comparable sales and sometimes use an income approach. Board member Roberts noted that, even though he is an employee of the County, he believes he would not have a problem voting on this item. The Board had no objection. With no further discussion, Paul Roberts moved to adopt the aforementioned Resolution 804. Roy Yates seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
BOARD COMMENTS Board member Roberts said he is looking forward to the graduations this week. President Dutton echoed his remarks, noting that her daughter is graduating from Everett High School.		BOARD COMMENTS
BOARD ACTION AND/OR BOARD DISCUSSION President Dutton recessed the regular meeting at 6:10 p.m. so that the Administration could conduct a study session concerning the District’s Strategic Plan goals (E:191/04). Dr. Whitehead opened the study session by referring to a recent article in The Enterprise concerning the District’s online homeschool program (attached). A copy will be included in the Board’s Friday packet. She then distributed and reviewed a three-page summary representing the End-of-Year Report for the 2003-2004 Strategic Plan.		STUDY SESSION—STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS
The study session continued with a review of the 2003-2004 End-of-Year Report of Strategic Plan Progress. Next came a review of the draft 2004-2005 Strategic Plan. Before being presented to the Board, the document was reviewed by the Superintendent’s Cabinet and the Superintendent’s Leadership Team (during which Board members participated); finalized by the Superintendent’s Cabinet; and then it was reviewed by members from the 10-year Strategic Plan review committee. Karst noted that a number of past strategic activities are no longer shown on this document because they are embedded within the Strategic Plan. At the conclusion of tonight’s review, Dr. Whitehead invited the Board’s questions, comments, changes, etc. Board approval of the plan will be requested at the August 23 Board meeting. In closing, Dr. Whitehead said she is proud of this team and the amazing work they have done this year. The state-of-the-school reviews showed that the Strategic Plan is actually being implemented in the schools. President Dutton said it is clear that teachers are taking ownership of the Strategic Plan. Board member Cooper concurred and said it is exciting to hear teachers refer to the Strategic Plan as it drives the work in the schools and classrooms. Board member Madsen said it is astonishing that so few people can do so much. With no further items, President Dutton adjourned the regular meeting at 8:05 p.m.		STUDY SESSION—STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS (CONT’D.)
_______________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Kristie Dutton, President