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, September 28, 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, and Paul Roberts. Absent: Roy Yates. Board member Madsen, although not present in person, was connected via telephone.

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. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Sue Cooper moved for approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of September 14, 2004. Paul Roberts seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS
Superintendent Whitehead opened her comments by announcing that the District’s Director of Communications, Gay Campbell, was recently elected to the position of president-elect of NSPRA (National School Public Relations Association). She will be president-elect for one year and will assume the presidency next July. In existence since 1935, NSPRA’s mission is to advance education through responsible communication. It provides school communication training and services throughout the United States, Canada and U.S. Dependent Schools worldwide. Gay has been a member of NSPRA for 22 years. She has written “Win at the Polls” and developed a training kit for administrators. She is a frequent mentor. In 2003, she received the President’s Award from NSPRA for “outstanding work in the field of educational communications.”
SUPT’S COMMENTS
Dr. Whitehead reported that she was recently in Olympia to attend a meeting of the WASA K-12 Finance Workgroup (III) with which she has been involved for the past three years. The workgroup is composed of superintendents from throughout the state. They meet approximately three times per year to explore ways to provide ample school funding. In fact, WASA contracted with an outside individual to review transportation and special education funding from the state as well as general basic education apportionment. White papers are complete concerning the transportation and special education funding. Although there are no surprises in either paper, the issues are clear and that, over time, a formula has been developed to meet the dollars available rather than what is required in the Constitution, by the Federal Government and from court cases. Clearly, the State of Washington is out of compliance in funding for transportation and special education. Dr. Whitehead indicated she will share the white papers with the Board as soon as she has them. She went on to say that SPI Superintendent Terry Bergeson submitted a budget proposal to the Legislature that she amended dramatically as a result of the information she received from WASA and the ample school funding project. She is asking the Legislature to give public education significant dollars this year to meet their fiduciary duty.

PUBLIC COMMENT
After outlining the guidelines for providing public comment, President Dutton called on the following individuals:
1) Patty Vigoren —parent of a three-sport athlete at Cascade High School—It is her belief that the District has violated WIAA (Washington Interscholastic Athletic Association) rules twice in the past two years, both of which were self-reported. Last week, a football player was found to be ineligible and a decision is pending on whether CHS must forfeit a game. In 2003, it was found that a soccer player’s physical had expired so CHS was forced to forfeit a game. Reading from a prepared text, Ms. Vigoren questioned the leadership of the CHS athletic department, whether the school is supporting the mission of the WIAA, and when an individual vs. an entire team should be punished for a violation (E:12/05).
PUBLIC COMMENT
2) Craig Wells —Garfield Elementary School parent—He spoke about the elimination of the Success for All (SFA) reading program and the lottery system that is used to fill all-day kindergarten slots. He felt that SFA, although not a district-wide program, has been successful during its eight years at Garfield. His children looked forward to using it and he is disappointed that it has been eliminated. Regarding all-day kindergarten, he felt it should be offered to all children rather than being filled via a lottery system. In closing, Mr. Wells referred to the Strategic Plan as being for all children
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
None.
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
The Administration presented information concerning assessment results. Associate Superintendent for Instruction Karst Brandsma introduced the evening’s presenters, Executive Director of Curriculum Alignment and Implementation Terry Edwards and Director of Curriculum and Assessment Ric Williams. Following a handout, Terry discussed trailing indicators of student performance, including 2004 WASL results, 2004 AYP (adequate yearly progress) results, 2004 SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) results and 2004 AP (advanced placement) results (E:13/05). Ric followed with information concerning 2004 Instructional Connections workshops.

PRESENTATION—Assessment Results
Regarding the 2004 WASL results, in every category at every grade Everett saw an improvement. For the first time in the District’s history, Everett exceeded the state average. Some of this is due to a re-setting of the cut scores. Even so, Everett had significant gains above and beyond the re-setting of the cut scores.
Regarding 2004 AYP results, many changes have been made to the state model for AYP. There has been a softening of the AYP impact, thus delaying the NCLB (No Child Left Behind) AYP impact. One significant change is movement from a straight-line progression to a stairstep model for the State Uniform Bar. Districts continue to be held to an upward trend, but there is a greater measure of flexibility. Everett’s growth must continue or the District will once again be “up against” AYP. Everett’s elementary schools are doing well individually and as a group. At the high school level, however, some issues need to be addressed. At Cascade High School, the District did not meet AYP in special education in reading and math. Everett High School did not meet minimum improvement in graduation rates this year; thus, the District was in non-compliance for graduation rates. None of these schools are Title I schools and do not fall under the financial penalty, but parents must be notified. Later this year, the Administration will provide a presentation to the Board concerning on-time graduation. Terry emphasized that out of 925 cells, the District is having trouble in just four of them.
Next, Terry talked about District 2004 SAT results. The SAT is a pre-college test that almost all juniors take. Washington state is one of the highest scoring states in the country, with the District’s scores exceeding the state average and the national average in verbal and math—this is very good news. Terry displayed a school trends chart.

[At approximately 5:15 p.m., the telephone connection with Board member Madsen was lost. Repeated attempts to re-connect were unsuccessful.]

Terry discussed 2004 AP results. He announced that a presentation to the Board is pending. He then showed a district summary chart for the period 2001-2004, which shows great performance and solid growth. Next, he reported on the number of subjects tested between 2001-2004, the number of exams taken, and the percentage of students scoring 3 or better during that period, all of which show improvement. Terry then outlined a District summary of the 2004 core academic focus areas and the total number of subjects tested. He noted that the District has been purposeful about selecting AP courses.

Terry concluded by saying that the District must analyze the data and work with schools to develop plans for improvement in each core area via the School Improvement Plan. The primary vehicle for improvement is by way of the Instructional Connections workshops, which is an all-day process examining reading, writing, mathematics and science. Ric Williams described the process. He said teams review data displays, process data analyis checklists, review School Improvement Plans (SIP) and discuss implementation of the SIP through collaborative teaming.

When asked about follow-up measures to the Instructional Connections workshop, Terry said each school structures it differently. In general, they establish collaborative teams at the buildings that usually include the instructional allies and the principals. Clearly, the workshops are effective only if the ownership spreads and goes back to the schools. Board member Cooper commented that the process is well coordinated and aligned. She went on to say that when the Board is in the schools, staff members consistently tell them they appreciate the high level of support they receive. President Dutton concurred and said the support is evident during their Board site visits. Board member Roberts commented that he hopes the information from this presentation is going back to those who have been encouraging the District to improve student achievement. Dr. Whitehead agreed and said she is preparing a letter to the 270 individuals who attended her lunches and breakfasts last spring. Board member Roberts also expressed his pleasure at being presented a review of the AYP process in tonight’s format as well as seeing a summary of the changes in the system for AYP.

In response to a question about the method of notifying parents when schools do not meet AYP, Terry replied that all parents must be notified, but it can be via newsletters, the website or some other format. Karst indicated that additional assessment information will be presented at an upcoming Board meeting. In response to a question about why advanced placement classes are on a staggered system, Terry said it is a strategy to fill classes. District administration continues to work with all schools to ensure that a full range of AP classes are offered at all times.

PRESENTATION—Assessment Results (cont’d.)
The Administration presented information concerning capital projects. Jeff Riddle introduced the Director of Facilities and Planning Mike Gunn. Via a PowerPoint presentation, Mike shared updates concerning recently-completed projects, upcoming projects, and a summary of future needs (E:14/05). Mike showed aerial photographs of the Silver Lake Elementary, Penny Creek Elementary, Gateway Middle and Jackson High School projects. He shared a grid of the capital projects schedule, including the design and permitting process timelines. Much of the work is funded from the 2002 bond issue, but some dollars are derived from other sources as well.
Regarding installation of AEDs (automatic external defibrillators), 68 new units were put in place. Six existing AEDs were left in place for a total of 74 throughout the district with staff and some students receiving training. One was placed at each elementary school, two at each middle school, and from four to six at each high school, depending upon the layout of the buildings. In addition, Sequoia High School received two, and each support facility received one.

In terms of future needs, Mike indicated that consideration should be given to finding property for future elementary and middle school needs in the south end, building a new elementary school in the south end, modernizing six elementary schools and one middle school, making improvements to the athletic facilities as Memorial Stadium, continuing technology upgrades and replacements, making changes to the central administrative facility, and modernizing the Longfellow Building.

Among the possible sources of funding are State match monies from Evergreen and Eisenhower Middle School projects, potential property sales and potential bond issues.
PRESENTATION —Capital Projects

PRESENTATION —Capital Projects
(cont’d.)
At the conclusion of Mike’s presentation, Jeff noted that the District is very fortunate to have Mike and his staff. They are an outstanding team who have helped ensure great success for District projects. Regarding the Jackson High School job, staff members were aware there would be numerous challenges from the outset. The contractor had a history that was not good, but it was not documented. Now it is. Overall, Mike and his staff did their very best to manage a very difficult situation.
ACTION ITEMS
Paul Roberts moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda and Sue Cooper seconded the motion.
Personnel Report (Revised) (E:15/05);
Voucher Lists (E:16/05);
2004-2005 OSPI Drug Omnibus Grant (E:17/05);
Approval of 2004-2005 Title V Innovative Programs Grant Application (E:18/05);
Tentative Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 and the Everett Education Association for the Classified Extracurricular Unit (E:19/05); and
Membership on Gertrude Jackson Memorial Fund Advisory Board (E:20/05).

The motion carried unanimously.

CONSENT AGENDA
The Administration recommended the Board of Directors adopt Resolution 813: Authorizing Civil Lawsuit Against State of Washington (Res. 06/05). The resolution authorizes the Superintendent of the District to: 1) retain special counsel;
2) file a civil lawsuit against the State of Washington for failing to meet its constitutional obligation to fully fund the costs of the District’s program to provide special education services; and 3) enter into an interlocal agreement for the purposes of working collaboratively with other school districts on issues related to the State funding of special education and associated issues.
RESOLUTION 813: AUTHORIZING CIVIL LAWSUIT AGAINST STATE OF WASHINGTON
Jeff Riddle commented that Everett will be joining several other districts to bring this lawsuit. There is almost $200 million of shortfall in funding statewide on a biennium basis. Dr. Whitehead added that special education funding across the state is somewhat equal in the way in which districts are not receiving the money. When the districts win the lawsuit, all districts in the state will benefit in a somewhat equal manner. Upon Board adoption, discussions will be held with other school districts in the state to get their support. It is anticipated that the lawsuit will be filed Thursday morning, September 30, at 10 a.m., in Thurston County. Dr. Whitehead, along with superintendents from the other ten school districts who are filing the lawsuit, will be present for the filing.
Board member Roberts said he can think of few instances where the funding for education is more poorly addressed at both the state and federal levels. It is unfortunate that litigation is the answer to a failed system. He noted that the lawsuit will not address issues of reporting, equity of care, nor certain administrative matters. The lawsuit is appropriate and it is important to make this statement.

With that, Board member Roberts moved for adoption of the aforementioned Resolution 813. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

Board member Cooper said this is a significant issue that has been discussed previously by the Board during executive session with an attorney present. Dr. Whitehead outlined the process for executive sessions.

Superintendent Whitehead said a significant amount of time has been spent with legislators talking about the issue in the hopes of not having to sue. However, the legislators believe their hands are tied. The districts believe the suit is necessary in order to get adequate funding and to do the work that districts are obligated to do.

Board member Roberts recollected that for the years he has been on the Board, he and the other Board members have consistently been to Olympia and talked to legislators about this and other issues. In this case, he sees there being no other choice than to sue. Comments from the public tonight underscore what happens when there is not enough money to do what needs to be done. The remarkable work being done with diminishing funds to meet ever-increasing standards forces districts to take these kinds of actions.
RESOLUTION 813: AUTHORIZING CIVIL LAWSUIT AGAINST STATE OF WASHINGTON (cont’d.)
BOARD COMMENTS
Board member Roberts reported that he and Gay Campbell attended the WSSDA legislative conference held last week in Wenatchee. The group approved the legislative agenda received by the Board, but considerable debate took place about whether to take a position on I-884. The group ultimately decided to advise rather than take a position. The group supported the repeal of the Legislature’s action on Referendum 55; that is, take out charter schools. Regarding fees and development fees, Item 49 was taken off the agenda altogether with no objection from the body. Jeff Riddle pointed out that the construction industry has pushed to change the mitigation fee process to get a real estate excise tax on all housing throughout the state, so Paul played a key role in ensuring WSSDA did not inadvertently get behind the wrong position in terms of how to deal with mitigation.

With no further comments, President Dutton adjourned the regular meeting at 5:55 p.m.
BOARD COMMENTS

___________________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Kristie Dutton, President

The Board of Directors of Everett Public Schools, Snohomish County, Washington, held a regular Board meeting on Tuesday, September 28, 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, and Paul Roberts. Absent: Roy Yates. Board member Madsen, although not present in person, was connected via telephone.
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. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		ADOPTION OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Sue Cooper moved for approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of September 14, 2004. Paul Roberts seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS Superintendent Whitehead opened her comments by announcing that the District’s Director of Communications, Gay Campbell, was recently elected to the position of president-elect of NSPRA (National School Public Relations Association). She will be president-elect for one year and will assume the presidency next July. In existence since 1935, NSPRA’s mission is to advance education through responsible communication. It provides school communication training and services throughout the United States, Canada and U.S. Dependent Schools worldwide. Gay has been a member of NSPRA for 22 years. She has written “Win at the Polls” and developed a training kit for administrators. She is a frequent mentor. In 2003, she received the President’s Award from NSPRA for “outstanding work in the field of educational communications.”		SUPT’S COMMENTS
Dr. Whitehead reported that she was recently in Olympia to attend a meeting of the WASA K-12 Finance Workgroup (III) with which she has been involved for the past three years. The workgroup is composed of superintendents from throughout the state. They meet approximately three times per year to explore ways to provide ample school funding. In fact, WASA contracted with an outside individual to review transportation and special education funding from the state as well as general basic education apportionment. White papers are complete concerning the transportation and special education funding. Although there are no surprises in either paper, the issues are clear and that, over time, a formula has been developed to meet the dollars available rather than what is required in the Constitution, by the Federal Government and from court cases. Clearly, the State of Washington is out of compliance in funding for transportation and special education. Dr. Whitehead indicated she will share the white papers with the Board as soon as she has them. She went on to say that SPI Superintendent Terry Bergeson submitted a budget proposal to the Legislature that she amended dramatically as a result of the information she received from WASA and the ample school funding project. She is asking the Legislature to give public education significant dollars this year to meet their fiduciary duty.
PUBLIC COMMENT After outlining the guidelines for providing public comment, President Dutton called on the following individuals: 1) Patty Vigoren —parent of a three-sport athlete at Cascade High School—It is her belief that the District has violated WIAA (Washington Interscholastic Athletic Association) rules twice in the past two years, both of which were self-reported. Last week, a football player was found to be ineligible and a decision is pending on whether CHS must forfeit a game. In 2003, it was found that a soccer player’s physical had expired so CHS was forced to forfeit a game. Reading from a prepared text, Ms. Vigoren questioned the leadership of the CHS athletic department, whether the school is supporting the mission of the WIAA, and when an individual vs. an entire team should be punished for a violation (E:12/05).		PUBLIC COMMENT
2) Craig Wells —Garfield Elementary School parent—He spoke about the elimination of the Success for All (SFA) reading program and the lottery system that is used to fill all-day kindergarten slots. He felt that SFA, although not a district-wide program, has been successful during its eight years at Garfield. His children looked forward to using it and he is disappointed that it has been eliminated. Regarding all-day kindergarten, he felt it should be offered to all children rather than being filled via a lottery system. In closing, Mr. Wells referred to the Strategic Plan as being for all children
RECOGNITION OF RETIREES None.		RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION The Administration presented information concerning assessment results. Associate Superintendent for Instruction Karst Brandsma introduced the evening’s presenters, Executive Director of Curriculum Alignment and Implementation Terry Edwards and Director of Curriculum and Assessment Ric Williams. Following a handout, Terry discussed trailing indicators of student performance, including 2004 WASL results, 2004 AYP (adequate yearly progress) results, 2004 SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) results and 2004 AP (advanced placement) results (E:13/05). Ric followed with information concerning 2004 Instructional Connections workshops.		PRESENTATION—Assessment Results
Regarding the 2004 WASL results, in every category at every grade Everett saw an improvement. For the first time in the District’s history, Everett exceeded the state average. Some of this is due to a re-setting of the cut scores. Even so, Everett had significant gains above and beyond the re-setting of the cut scores.
Regarding 2004 AYP results, many changes have been made to the state model for AYP. There has been a softening of the AYP impact, thus delaying the NCLB (No Child Left Behind) AYP impact. One significant change is movement from a straight-line progression to a stairstep model for the State Uniform Bar. Districts continue to be held to an upward trend, but there is a greater measure of flexibility. Everett’s growth must continue or the District will once again be “up against” AYP. Everett’s elementary schools are doing well individually and as a group. At the high school level, however, some issues need to be addressed. At Cascade High School, the District did not meet AYP in special education in reading and math. Everett High School did not meet minimum improvement in graduation rates this year; thus, the District was in non-compliance for graduation rates. None of these schools are Title I schools and do not fall under the financial penalty, but parents must be notified. Later this year, the Administration will provide a presentation to the Board concerning on-time graduation. Terry emphasized that out of 925 cells, the District is having trouble in just four of them. Next, Terry talked about District 2004 SAT results. The SAT is a pre-college test that almost all juniors take. Washington state is one of the highest scoring states in the country, with the District’s scores exceeding the state average and the national average in verbal and math—this is very good news. Terry displayed a school trends chart. [At approximately 5:15 p.m., the telephone connection with Board member Madsen was lost. Repeated attempts to re-connect were unsuccessful.] Terry discussed 2004 AP results. He announced that a presentation to the Board is pending. He then showed a district summary chart for the period 2001-2004, which shows great performance and solid growth. Next, he reported on the number of subjects tested between 2001-2004, the number of exams taken, and the percentage of students scoring 3 or better during that period, all of which show improvement. Terry then outlined a District summary of the 2004 core academic focus areas and the total number of subjects tested. He noted that the District has been purposeful about selecting AP courses. Terry concluded by saying that the District must analyze the data and work with schools to develop plans for improvement in each core area via the School Improvement Plan. The primary vehicle for improvement is by way of the Instructional Connections workshops, which is an all-day process examining reading, writing, mathematics and science. Ric Williams described the process. He said teams review data displays, process data analyis checklists, review School Improvement Plans (SIP) and discuss implementation of the SIP through collaborative teaming. When asked about follow-up measures to the Instructional Connections workshop, Terry said each school structures it differently. In general, they establish collaborative teams at the buildings that usually include the instructional allies and the principals. Clearly, the workshops are effective only if the ownership spreads and goes back to the schools. Board member Cooper commented that the process is well coordinated and aligned. She went on to say that when the Board is in the schools, staff members consistently tell them they appreciate the high level of support they receive. President Dutton concurred and said the support is evident during their Board site visits. Board member Roberts commented that he hopes the information from this presentation is going back to those who have been encouraging the District to improve student achievement. Dr. Whitehead agreed and said she is preparing a letter to the 270 individuals who attended her lunches and breakfasts last spring. Board member Roberts also expressed his pleasure at being presented a review of the AYP process in tonight’s format as well as seeing a summary of the changes in the system for AYP. In response to a question about the method of notifying parents when schools do not meet AYP, Terry replied that all parents must be notified, but it can be via newsletters, the website or some other format. Karst indicated that additional assessment information will be presented at an upcoming Board meeting. In response to a question about why advanced placement classes are on a staggered system, Terry said it is a strategy to fill classes. District administration continues to work with all schools to ensure that a full range of AP classes are offered at all times.		PRESENTATION—Assessment Results (cont’d.)
The Administration presented information concerning capital projects. Jeff Riddle introduced the Director of Facilities and Planning Mike Gunn. Via a PowerPoint presentation, Mike shared updates concerning recently-completed projects, upcoming projects, and a summary of future needs (E:14/05). Mike showed aerial photographs of the Silver Lake Elementary, Penny Creek Elementary, Gateway Middle and Jackson High School projects. He shared a grid of the capital projects schedule, including the design and permitting process timelines. Much of the work is funded from the 2002 bond issue, but some dollars are derived from other sources as well. Regarding installation of AEDs (automatic external defibrillators), 68 new units were put in place. Six existing AEDs were left in place for a total of 74 throughout the district with staff and some students receiving training. One was placed at each elementary school, two at each middle school, and from four to six at each high school, depending upon the layout of the buildings. In addition, Sequoia High School received two, and each support facility received one. In terms of future needs, Mike indicated that consideration should be given to finding property for future elementary and middle school needs in the south end, building a new elementary school in the south end, modernizing six elementary schools and one middle school, making improvements to the athletic facilities as Memorial Stadium, continuing technology upgrades and replacements, making changes to the central administrative facility, and modernizing the Longfellow Building. Among the possible sources of funding are State match monies from Evergreen and Eisenhower Middle School projects, potential property sales and potential bond issues.		PRESENTATION —Capital Projects PRESENTATION —Capital Projects (cont’d.)
At the conclusion of Mike’s presentation, Jeff noted that the District is very fortunate to have Mike and his staff. They are an outstanding team who have helped ensure great success for District projects. Regarding the Jackson High School job, staff members were aware there would be numerous challenges from the outset. The contractor had a history that was not good, but it was not documented. Now it is. Overall, Mike and his staff did their very best to manage a very difficult situation.
ACTION ITEMS Paul Roberts moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda and Sue Cooper seconded the motion. Personnel Report (Revised) (E:15/05); Voucher Lists (E:16/05); 2004-2005 OSPI Drug Omnibus Grant (E:17/05); Approval of 2004-2005 Title V Innovative Programs Grant Application (E:18/05); Tentative Agreement Between Everett School District No. 2 and the Everett Education Association for the Classified Extracurricular Unit (E:19/05); and Membership on Gertrude Jackson Memorial Fund Advisory Board (E:20/05). The motion carried unanimously.		CONSENT AGENDA
The Administration recommended the Board of Directors adopt Resolution 813: Authorizing Civil Lawsuit Against State of Washington (Res. 06/05). The resolution authorizes the Superintendent of the District to: 1) retain special counsel; 2) file a civil lawsuit against the State of Washington for failing to meet its constitutional obligation to fully fund the costs of the District’s program to provide special education services; and 3) enter into an interlocal agreement for the purposes of working collaboratively with other school districts on issues related to the State funding of special education and associated issues.		RESOLUTION 813: AUTHORIZING CIVIL LAWSUIT AGAINST STATE OF WASHINGTON
Jeff Riddle commented that Everett will be joining several other districts to bring this lawsuit. There is almost $200 million of shortfall in funding statewide on a biennium basis. Dr. Whitehead added that special education funding across the state is somewhat equal in the way in which districts are not receiving the money. When the districts win the lawsuit, all districts in the state will benefit in a somewhat equal manner. Upon Board adoption, discussions will be held with other school districts in the state to get their support. It is anticipated that the lawsuit will be filed Thursday morning, September 30, at 10 a.m., in Thurston County. Dr. Whitehead, along with superintendents from the other ten school districts who are filing the lawsuit, will be present for the filing.
Board member Roberts said he can think of few instances where the funding for education is more poorly addressed at both the state and federal levels. It is unfortunate that litigation is the answer to a failed system. He noted that the lawsuit will not address issues of reporting, equity of care, nor certain administrative matters. The lawsuit is appropriate and it is important to make this statement. With that, Board member Roberts moved for adoption of the aforementioned Resolution 813. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Board member Cooper said this is a significant issue that has been discussed previously by the Board during executive session with an attorney present. Dr. Whitehead outlined the process for executive sessions. Superintendent Whitehead said a significant amount of time has been spent with legislators talking about the issue in the hopes of not having to sue. However, the legislators believe their hands are tied. The districts believe the suit is necessary in order to get adequate funding and to do the work that districts are obligated to do. Board member Roberts recollected that for the years he has been on the Board, he and the other Board members have consistently been to Olympia and talked to legislators about this and other issues. In this case, he sees there being no other choice than to sue. Comments from the public tonight underscore what happens when there is not enough money to do what needs to be done. The remarkable work being done with diminishing funds to meet ever-increasing standards forces districts to take these kinds of actions.		RESOLUTION 813: AUTHORIZING CIVIL LAWSUIT AGAINST STATE OF WASHINGTON (cont’d.)
BOARD COMMENTS Board member Roberts reported that he and Gay Campbell attended the WSSDA legislative conference held last week in Wenatchee. The group approved the legislative agenda received by the Board, but considerable debate took place about whether to take a position on I-884. The group ultimately decided to advise rather than take a position. The group supported the repeal of the Legislature’s action on Referendum 55; that is, take out charter schools. Regarding fees and development fees, Item 49 was taken off the agenda altogether with no objection from the body. Jeff Riddle pointed out that the construction industry has pushed to change the mitigation fee process to get a real estate excise tax on all housing throughout the state, so Paul played a key role in ensuring WSSDA did not inadvertently get behind the wrong position in terms of how to deal with mitigation. With no further comments, President Dutton adjourned the regular meeting at 5:55 p.m.		BOARD COMMENTS
___________________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Kristie Dutton, President